Which Has Posed the Greatest Problem for Singaporean in Ensuring Social Harmony †Racial Differences, Religious Differences or the Threat of Transnational Terrorism? Explain You Answer.

In a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society like Singapore, there is a need to manage the racial and religious sensitivities and promote tolerance and harmony. In addition, there is also the need to build national identity by instilling a sense of belonging. Therefore, there is a need to identify the most important problem out of the three and then solve it. The first problem is managing the perceptions of different racial groups. There is a need to manage this problem as preconceived notions of biased treatment by the government against any racial group could lead to the outbreak of violence among the different communities.For example, in 1964, Singapore experienced race riots which resulted in 36 dead and 590 injured. Singapore was in Malaysia then, and the UMNO felt threatened when the PAP participated in the 1964 Federal elections. The UMNO then led an anti-PAP campaign in the medium using the Utusan Melayu, claiming that PAP’s rule disadvantaged the Malays and that Mala y Singaporeans remained poor under PAP’s rule. They also claimed that PAP was uprooting Malay families in resettlement projects. Some UMNO extremists even came to Singapore and made fiery speeches that angered many Singaporean Malays.In July 1964, during the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, a clash between a Chinese policeman and a group of Malay participants turned into a full-blown race riot over the next few days. This shows how the perceptions of unequal treatment towards the different races can cause suspicions, distrust and even hostility among Singaporeans, even if these perceptions are not based on facts. Therefore, this problem must be managed to prevent any outbreak of violence among citizens. The second problem is managing the perceptions of different religious groups.There is a need to do this as differences in religious beliefs and practices are issues that can create tension among people in Singapore, especially if it has been perceived that th e concerns of a certain religious community have not been considered. This is shown in the Maria Hertogh riot during 1950. Maria Hertogh, born to Dutch-Eurasian parents was adopted during the war by an Indonesian Muslim woman, Aminah, as her parents were interned by the Japanese. After the war, the Hertoghs launched a legal battle for the custody of their daughter. The custody battle attracted intense media attention worldwide.The judge ordered that Maria be placed temporarily in a Catholic convent while the trail was taking place. Photographs in newspaper of Maria, who was raised a Muslim, in a Catholic convent before a statue of Virgin Mary affected religious sensitivities and angered the Muslim Community as they felt that their religion was not respected at all. The British courts gave custody of Maria to her biological mother. Upon hearing the judgement, huge crowds outside the court rioted, convinced that the colonial laws, the courts and the legal system was prejudiced against the Muslims.The riots showed that if issues with religious implications are not handled in a sensitive manner, hostility and distrust could occur among people. The last problem is managing the threats from external forces. This also needs to be managed because transnational terrorist groups tend to exploit religious or race issues in order to achieve their political aims, suspicion and tension may arise among people in multi-ethnic societies like Singapore. For an example, the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) is a militant group which has been active in the Southeast Asia. Its aim is to set up an Islamic state in Asia.Some of its activities include fund-raising and purchasing materials for making bombs. From 2001-2002, 34 JI members were arrested under the Internal Security Act for their involvement in terrorist-related activities. Targets in Singapore included the US embassy and some government buildings. Following the arrests, there was some mixed reactions from Singaporeans who were prepar ed to do harm in the various ethnic communities. Shocked that there were Singaporeans who were prepared to do harm to innocent civilians, some members of the public expressed distrust towards members of certain communities.This shows that managing external threats poses a significant challenge, as it has potential to divide people along racial and religious lines. All in all, I feel that the problem that has posed the greatest threat for Singapore in ensuring social harmony is the threat of transnational terrorism. As it can cause distrust between both religions and races while the other two can only either cause distrust among religions or races. In addition, if they manage to overcome the threat from external forces, citizens will be able to trust each other and violence and distrust will not breakout.

Egypt and Mesopotamia Essay

Egypt and Mesopotamia have both similarities and differences, throughout both of these civilizations from back to 3,500 B.C. The political and social structures in these civilizations were different and the same in their own way. The political differences between Egypt and Mesopotamia included hierarchy power, land control, and centralized government. The similarities between both civilizations are social class, male patriarchy, and kings. Egypt and Mesopotamia both had differences of their political and social structures. Egypt had more of authorial government, where one head person was in charge which in this case was the pharaoh, which was the head on Egypt social class, as well as leader of his society. The Pharaoh was basically a king ruling for his people, while Mesopotamia, had city states, which was controlled by priest kings. Another difference is that in Egypt the Pharaoh had complete control over the land, while in Mesopotamia the kings were not so powerful, and the land was split with others such as priest kings. Lastly, Egypt had a centralized government, while Mesopotamia did not have this. Egypt was ruled under one leader and was together as a unity. Egypt had an overall leader such as the Pharaoh, which helped Egypt stay united as one government and civilization. Key similarities would be that they both had poly gods and many of their gods were very brutal. Both the lands were birthed in war and had much cultural strife for land. Mesopotamia had an all mighty ruler of gods and Egyptians really didn’t. Many people say Ra was the almighty sun god of Egyptian culture but really all of Egypt’s gods were about equal. The idea of what is beautiful and what is considered â€Å"manly† is still held upon Egyptian beliefs, not Mesopotamian beliefs. Very different cultures Egypt developed in relative isolation from the rest of the ancient Near East. Thus, cultural evolution resulted in a totally unique civilization, without influence from the outside. Mesopotamia was a multicultural society, with Sumer and Akkad, Elam and Babylon, Assyria, Mitanni, and others all vying for supremacy. Mesopotamia and Egypt were both in flood basins of major rivers. Mesopotamia was characterized by turmoil and tension and in contrast Egypt was characterized by stability and serenity. The Mesopotamian climate was harsh and since the Tigris and the Euphrates flooded irregularly, nature was not viewed as life enhancing but rather considered to be a threat. Mesopotamia was located on an open plain without protection from foreign intrusions; therefore they  were continually on alert. Differences between the religions is the idea of death and resurrection for all people, including common people, was possible in ancient Egypt, but not generally so in Mesopotamian religions. Early on in Egyptian history, only the king, or pharaoh, could resurrect from the dead and live forever. That is why the Egyptians mummified their dead. Later, even the common man wanted his body to be preserved as a home for the spirit, who would live on in the afterlife. This was not possible for the average Mesopotamian. Egyptian religion was less likely to be influenced by the outside world. Mesopotamia is at the crossroads of many different peoples and cultures. Changes in the Mesopotamian religions was much more likely, and more common, than in Egypt. Egypt and Mesopotamia have both similarities and differences, throughout both of these civilizations from back to 3,500 B.C. The political and social structures in these civilizations were different and the same in their own way. The political differences between Egypt and Mesopotamia included hierarchy power, land control, and centralized government. The similarities between both civilizations are social class, male patriarchy, and kings. Egypt and Mesopotamia both had differences of their political and social structures. Egypt and Mesopotamia believed in polytheistic, but the Mesopotamia they believed in many rulers such as ur-nammu and sargon ant ect but they Egyptians believed in the pharaoh he was the only person in charge over everything.

Comment on the Response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Comment on the Response - Essay Example I strongly agree with the point on the identity discovery process. I feel Janie strongly identified herself with nature. The fact that she related love to the relationship between the bees and the tree and the point where she allows a bug to walk on her face just to feel the legs of the bug makes one feel that Janie identified herself with nature. The fact that she found herself in conflict with her inner self when she was the mayor’s wife was a beautiful depiction of a situation which many of us feel time and again when confronted by different situations in life. I had also mentioned in my review that the language was hard to understand at first, due to the African dialect. I am not really sure whether that was the lesson which Hurston was trying to give about the fact that women should rule their own lives because after Janie did what she wanted her end was not one to be envied, she had to kill her husband, the one she had loved, but then again may be you are right in saying this because the book is centered around her feelings and dilemmas.

Euthanasia in Terminal Illness Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Euthanasia in Terminal Illness - Essay Example Included in the topics to be covered are the different approaches that present the reasons for undertaking or employing euthanasia. Historical Roots of Euthanasia The history of euthanasia can be traced back to the reign of the Greeks and Romans when the term originated. Though it is meant to imply a good death, euthanasia is often deemed with negativity since it can be translated as physician-assisted suicide and compared to other ethical and moral social issues such as abortion, capital punishment, and issues related to beginning or ending of human life (McDougall, Gorman and Roberts, 2008, p.2). During the first to firth century, Greeks and Romans are allowed to access poison and choose death. The rise of the influence of Christianity during the Roman Empire had a great impact on the view on euthanasia. Death regardless of what reason was prohibited. During the middle ages, 5th to 15th century, the Catholic Church stressed the religious condemnation of euthanasia and that sufferin g is a sign of spiritual virtues of martyrdom. Then the Renaissance (14th to 17th century) came and changed the view on euthanasia through the discovery of modern scientific knowledge that are still influential in the present era. Thus, there is diversification of view on euthanasia since the church is still against the issue (McDougall, Gorman and Roberts, 2008, p.3-4). The view on euthanasia continuously changed as the Age of Reason came in during the 18th century. Scientific prowess opened the mind of the people regarding the need of every person to have a choice regarding death. In 1798, six colonies ceased the legal penalties for attempted suicide. The open mindedness of the authorities though made a frightening turn during the pre-WW II and Nazi Germany (1920-45) when the secretly approved government program that killed handicapped, mentally ill and people un asylums became the onset of Hitler’s Euthanasia Programme that even included people of least capability to defen d themselves regardless of being healthy such as women and children (p.5). With the foundations of views and beliefs from the previous eras, the perspective toward euthanasia in the present era became divided. This is the main reason why it became a personal issue to decide on whether or not euthanasia should be applied. Law and medical ethics mandate the guidelines for euthanasia while the person himself and the relatives hold the decision to apply it. Philosophical Roots of Euthanasia Euthanasia is one of the main concerns in the field of medicine based on the fact that it is a controversial issue in ethics. The ethical question lies in the death of a person. If the person himself/herself consented for the act, there is a question the person’s right to take his/her own life. If the act is the decision of the relatives or the medical professionals since it may be the only solution left for the patient, there is a question on their right to decide the time when a person shoul d die (Andersen and Taylor, 2007, p.552).

Discussion on rolls of translators in localiczation and translation Term Paper

Discussion on rolls of translators in localiczation and translation memory environment - Term Paper Example Like the rest of the ‘knowledge sector,’ translators are obliged to work on computer screens and do their research using the web. Unlike their colleagues however, they have been propagating this new work environment and fomenting change precisely by their role in translating it. The most significant tool used until now by translators in the digital work environment is Translation Memory software, or TM. By putting the developments of the last 20 years in historical perspective and with particular attention to events over the last two, this article argues that TM is reaching its use-by date. It also examines the strong re-emergence of Machine Translation (MT) in response to TM's inability to cope with the increasing translating needs of today’s digital age. (p. ... For example physicians, public servants, theologians, writers and poets translated the work of their respective fields. (p. 200) The grooming of translation as a profession is based on a century’s time period but shaping translation into a new form of business is a story of recent times, as this paper looks at the work of some of the modern authors, Brian Mossop (2006) is no exception. According to him, â€Å"most changes over the past 20 years have been changes in translation as a business†. (p. 788) Further more, he has written that now days, there are now translations companies provide services internationally and deal with remotely located translators worldwide. He also gave his point of view on localization and wrote: Translation is starting to become a big business, increasingly integrating as suppliers the traditional cottage industry of freelances. The activity known as ‘localization’ has been added to existing translation business sectors, and it i s also one of several sectors where practitioners are in the process of acquiring distinct professional status (along with court and community interpreters). That said, it nay be noted in passing that ‘localization’ of Web page textual content is often just a new label for an old activity, namely free translation / adaptation. (p.788-789) According to Brian Mossop (2006), â€Å"some of the changes under way in the world of translation are not related to information technology at all†. He has used English translation as a global auxiliary language example. He also regarded this development as a new chapter in the history of lingua francas. (p. 788-792) As this paper looks into the work of modern writers and authors, one can not ignore Anthony Pym’s work on globalization and contribution to translation as

HIPPA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

HIPPA - Essay Example The health sector across the world has developed various strategies for reducing medical errors and its effects (Becher and Chassin, 2010). These strategies are designed to reduce the increasing cases of medication errors and the impact of such errors on patients’ health. To be certain that the correct drug in the right dosage and route is prescribed to the right person at the right time, health care professionals ought to adopt and make proper use of Bar Code Label Rule. The Bar Code Label Rule requires the introduction of bar code on specified biological products and drugs. The bar code is then used to scan drugs and equipment to ensure proper drug administration. Over years, the Bar Code Label Rule has demonstrated significant contribution in zero rating cases of medication errors. Additionally, educational training on the most effective ways of reducing medication errors is relatively critical to all health care professionals. Training on interventional risk management, emerging medical errors prevention, techniques can also be effective in reducing medication errors as well as promoting team work among health professionals. To counter complications associated with drug name confusion, the health center ought to have a systematic and effective drug labeling mechanism. There is also need for pharmaceutical companies to develop a workable labeling mechanism that will reduce confusion in drug administration. The pharmacy technicians should complete medication history on the medication forms to necessitate correct drug prescription. This would reduce cases of incorrect prescription as in the case of Darnell Mares who was given Topril instead of Topramax. Additionally, cooperation between all stakeholders in hospital settings is also effective in reducing medication errors. Pablo Garca was prescribed with the drugs prescribed for Maria Garcia due to lack of proper communication among health professionals The heath center should consider introducing the

Children cartoons Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Children cartoons - Case Study Example The fact that children are highly influenced during their formative years makes cartoons both a blessing and a threat. On a physical level, recent research has shown that watching cartoons can help to reduce pain in children facing medical procedures (Jenkins). It is theorized that cartoons cause a change in brain chemistry and may also be able to improve the child's sense of well-being. However, critics contend that the young viewer may copy behavior seen in cartoons. Research has found a "positive, though weak, relation between exposure to television violence and aggressive behaviour" (Research on the Effects of Media Violence). Cartoons have the ability to influence either for the good or the detriment of the child. In conclusion, cartoons are the most fundamental introduction that many children have to our culture. It has been shown that television, and cartoons, do have an effect on young viewers. It is important to consider that the program content may work to improve the child's sense of self and well being, or elicit the negative attitudes, such as aggression, that parents work hard to control.

September 11, 2001 and the Global War on Terror Essay

September 11, 2001 and the Global War on Terror - Essay Example special intelligence unit was set up by Secretary of Defense who proved al-Qaeda as the possible terrorist organization, even in absence of any proofs. A number of experts have related Sepoy Mutiny, as a conventional version of suicidal attacks of September 11, 2001, and Global War on Terror with the United States attempt to dominate the globe with its absolute military supremacy.** (Johnson, pp. 139) In specific, this paper will try to understand different aspects of 9/11 attacks and the responsive Global War on Terrori in light of readings from the given text. The abovementioned suicidal attacks of September 11, 2001 resulted in deaths of 2974 people in the country. Civilians were the irresistible majority of casualties in these attacks. Additionally, collapse of the World Trade Center resulted in contaminated dust that resulted in the deaths of many people due to lung disease. In light of such tragedy and losses of human lives, a golden opportunity was provided to the United States for removal of Taliban from the face of the globe without support from any of the countries. (Johnson, pp. 181) A number of experts indicated that public relations activities of the Pentagon were boosted and went to its pinnacle only hours after the 9/11 attacks, which assaulted Afghani Taliban, al-Qaeda, and Saddam Hussein behind these devlish attacks. On the other hand, Central Asian oil politics was one of the hidden and significant causes of the Global War on Terror besides the responsive action after the 9/11 attacks. (Johnson, pp. 181) A War on Terrorism was declared by the United States soon after the 9/11 attacks, and deposition of Taliban’s involvement in the attacks resulted in launching of invasion of Afghanistan. The USA Patriot Act was passed for the abovementioned deposition of harbor of al-Qaeda militants. In the result, law enforcement authorities were expanded by a number of other nations, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Pakistan, etc. Some of the critics

Causes of increasing gas prices Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Causes of increasing gas prices - Essay Example What is causing this rise in prices of gas? Is it merely supply and demand issues, or are there other factors that are influencing the rise in gas prices? This paper has the general aim of being informative of the causes of the rise in gas prices. However, within this general aim, the paper has a specific purpose in trying to uncover that the rise in gas prices is not merely caused by supply and demand issues. Gas prices in the USA are linked to international oil prices, as the cost of oil constitutes 70% of the cost of a gallon of gasoline. Cost of oil has risen. Brent oil prices are a measure of the prices of prevailing in the oil markets. Brent oil has risen by approximately 52 cents over the last two months, reflecting a rise in price of gas by 47cents per gallon in the USA. Four factors are believed to be involved in the recent rise in gas prices. These four factors are rise in demand for oil, inability of oil production to match the rising demand for oil, political turbulence in the Middle-East, and speculation in oil (Hargreaves, 1). The United Nations outlook for oil markets in 2010 demonstrates the reasons for an expected rise in demand for oil. The forecast indicated that there would be a rise in demand for oil to the tune of about 1.5%, raising demand for oil to 85.7 million barrels per day. Two factors would drive this rise in demand for oil. The main driver for rise in oil prices would be growing demand for oil from the emerging nations, like China and India, and the secondary driving force would be the slow emergence from recession of the developed world (United Nations, 63). The rise in demand for oil in 2012 however, was not as large as expected. The International Energy Association has estimated that the demand for oil in 2012 will be 200,000 barrels per day less than the earlier forecasted estimate of 90 million barrels per day. The reason for this

Spirituality and the Creative Spirit, (Portfolio#1) Essay

Spirituality and the Creative Spirit, (Portfolio#1) - Essay Example As it is also observed that in the text it is stated, â€Å"His (Davis) mother took him regularly to catholic church hoping that somehow provide comfort instead it filled him with fear, ‘I found the whole thing terrifying’† (17). Davis’s terror is explicable as the fear of punishment and the manner in which the church portrays God. However it is apparent that he is a spiritualist the reason being that he has strived to find meaning of life and was ultimately able to discover solace in nature and his catharsis was writing poetry. It is highly stressed upon that church and the Christian theology or any other religion does not governs spirituality reason being that spirituality is not simply confined to the search of God. Although for some people spiritualism is the exploration of one’s relation with God and importance of religion. Yet it is not true for the majority of the people because in the twenty first century a large number of people do not belie ve in God anymore as it is stated about Davis, â€Å"on many occasions he still believes that the Gods have fled† (17) it is more about self contemplation than about God. Nevertheless the importance of religion cannot be denied because in a large number of cases it acts as a catalyst for initiating or introducing an individual to spirituality. Since the Church plays an integral role in the exhibition of a large number of paintings regarding mysticism and also because religion has the power of instigating or putting an individual in a contemplative mood. So it is the process of questioning that leads a man to explore the mysteries of life and reason with the logic and principles of his existence. Spirituality can also be elucidated as a form of expression in which an individual gets a chance to express one’s every feeling of anger, love, hatred and admiration. Hence any form of art i.e. music, poetry, painting and dancing are all modes of expressing one’s interpretation of life as well one’s

Position of the Music Industry Prior to Introduction of Internet Essay Example for Free

Position of the Music Industry Prior to Introduction of Internet Essay In the music industry prior to the introduction of internet marketing there were different roles being played by different actors of the market. The usual way a product is prepared for market is to contract the artists. The artists who were the content providers record materials which are either their own or provided to them by other writers. This is clearly depicted in the figure below. Traditional Value Chain in the Music Industry Source: John B. Meisel and Timothy S. Sullivan The recordings will be done on the basis of the contracts entered into with the recording companies. Hence the power and control over the supply of the product remained with the record company. The recording company thus would be regarded as the holder of the major item of value in the supply chain being the exclusive rights over the recorded artists’ content. (Hardaker and Graham, 2001) Most of the part of the distribution is in the hands of the record companies and they also retain the rights to select the suppliers. The distribution and supplier selection is based on the record companies’ perception about the quality of the recording and the music, past reputation of the suppliers and the contract price for the recording. In return for the content in the form of recording, the artist is compensated by the provision of promotions for the recording and its merchandising in connection with the sales there of and the distribution of the content as a saleable commodity – CD for example. It was usual in the traditional music industry that the major record companies have their own distribution channels and businesses. Hence it would become necessary for a retailer to source his music products from different sources. Sometimes the retailer may have to place orders with major record companies and up to 20 other firms from the independent sector. The new releases of music albums or other sales of the record companies are usually handled by the wholesalers. If the retailer would like to follow the wholesaler route then he might have to order through only one wholesaler. The main wholesalers also offer another service called ‘rack jobbing’ which is a different method of supply being adopted by them. The function of a rack jobber includes the supply of complete package that contains records and other promotional and display materials. It is also the duty of the wholesaler to keep a regular stock usually on a sale or exchange basis. Just as the advancement in the telecommunication had its effect on all the other sectors from airline reservations to banking and related financial services the music recording industry has also been severely impacted both positively and negatively observes Eric de Fontenay. In fact the impact of internet on the music industry is much more profound than on any other industries. Despite the fact that the entertainment related products and services have taken their own time to develop and take advantage of the improvements in digital technology over the decades, during the intervening period the overall structure of the industry has remained dormant. The reasons for the industry to remain without major changes can be traced to the following reasons: 1. The cost of creation of content has always remained higher and this prohibited any new entrants in to the industry. 2. The structure of content ownership and rights of licensing system remained unaltered thereby keeping the structure of the industry in tact. 3. There has been a continuous necessity for the presence of a distribution network almost everywhere in the world irrespective of the geographical barriers. This has restricted the existing firms to make any changes in the structure. There was no possibility of new firms entering the market in view of the high capital intensive nature. 4. Similarly there had always been a constant scarcity for the distribution networks which also prevented any new forms of distribution or change in the structure of the distribution networks. (Eric de Fontenay) The internet has affected the music industry in so many ways. It has made the industry incur additional costs in completely restructuring itself. Further the internet has reduced the entry barriers. This was possible by a considerable increase in the number of downstream outlets having varied nature. At the same time the internet has provided the actors in the upstream end to enjoy greater control over the aspects of content ownership, production and distribution. This has created a distinct fear in the record labels that they cannot eliminate the possibility of getting bypassed by both the markets in the downstream and upstream. This impact has created the following reaction on the part of the traditional industry actors. They tried to impose the existing rules and procedures to the new medium so that they could exercise the same leverage and control over the market. The process by which they attempted to do it involves a twin aspects strategic approach. At one end they used legal channels to restrict the availability and use of the new technology in the Industry. On the other end they adopted new technologies to tackle the potential legal threats that would affect the control derived by them from the traditional systems. This strategy backfired and left them high and dry in the market while new information technology players like AOL, Microsoft, E Music and MP3 took advantage of the stalemate. They reacted aggressively by building their infrastructure and systems for the online marketing and distribution of music. They also involved themselves in the retailing of music over internet. The distribution of revenues in the music industry involves the portion of the performer. As per the contract terms the performer is to be paid a portion of the revenue each time there is a sale of the record. Before the money is paid to the performer the revenue is to be apportioned towards the expenses incurred by the company for marketing and distribution. This gives an opportunity for the artists to earn considerable amounts from the sale of products. For gaining maximum revenue the artists should control the publishing rights to their songs or they have the capacity to negotiate contracts with terms that are favourable to the artists. In the case of revenue distribution Internet has its impact on the industry in the following respects.

English Literature Abstract Expressionism Movement

English Literature Abstract Expressionism Movement Abstract Expressionism Movement While it was generally conceded that Abstract Expressionism was spent, superseded by the rise of minimalism and Pop art in the early 1960s, Gustans work after 1968 signaled the end of the Idealism that had driven the movement. Some artists such as Newman, cited in (the book); had continued to question whether the New York School had existed at all, stating as late as 1965 that: there was never a movement in the conventional sense of a style, but a collection of individual voices. That is why to talk of the movement being dead is ridiculous. But I have found that this book although it in general, covers the factual information necessary to form a coherent opinion, it nevertheless, rambled, leaving the reader with limited knowledge that conceptualized a clear understanding. In essence, I found it hard to read, and that in some places it also repeated facts. Therefore, I gave serious consideration to the other listed books on the same subject, but further extended my research to more generalist books that covered the history of art. In returning to the text, Abstract Expressionism by Anfam (1990), which offers an albeit extended and sometimes incoherent journey through this subject, we can at least in part find some nuggets of information that carefully explain and discuss some of the wider concepts of abstract expressionism. But, to find the most sensible and coherent facts, I had to delve deeply into this volume, which at best, left the reader often lost and in many cul-de-sacs, where opinions were losing the force and direction of their meaning because of very poor signposting techniques used by the author. At best, the useful and expressive textual details were lost and to re-address this and to have some coherent understanding of the importance and standing of abstract expressionism, I had to cross reference many of the themes in this book, to other texts, which at best, allowed me to form an holistic and guided academic opinion on the movement. Therefore, this book review will provide some carefully constructed opinions guided by the chosen text, but, more fully engaged and directed by the supplementary reading undertaken. REVIEW Anfam (1990) in his work, Abstract Expressionism, suggests that there was a group of artists and like-minded people, who founded the movement. In doing so, he cites aspects of the modern history of the USA, in particular, the depression. In widening his argument, he also reveals some of the many parallels with the unrest within the French expressionism movement and equally rambles on to try to offer some formative cross referencing with the many expressive styles of other movements of the era. This discursive and sometimes lively debate is hampered by a clear lack of coherence, it leaves as stated in my introduction, the reader in many a cul-de-sac, with a real battle of wits to find some real and meaningful information that clearly nails down the subject of abstract expressionism in its diluted forms. The work of Pollock is often cited in the text to explain how artists use their work to show feelings and emotions, in part this aspect is explain and discussed in fine details that allow the reader to make some careful informed opinions. In particular Anfam (1990) tries his best to offer through he opening arguments contained in the introduction to the text, a socio-historical foundation for his later discussions, for example: before the second World War opens perspective that enfold the present. In microcosm we might compare of the western political power and culture after 1945. This interesting and meaningful conceptualization, offers some cohesion to the ongoing debate, setting the social and historical scene is crucial, in that, the World had just been through the most devastating periods of modern history, leaving a bereavement and albeit soulless notion of loss that impacted upon all aspects of society. From this vacuous void, came the development of what we know as modern sustainable artistic talents that in part, were able to bring a real flavour of expressing emotions through the wonderful and many diverse styles that were emerging out of this vacuum. The examples could be many, but for Anfram (1990), it is expressed in his notion that modern companies, that is commercial enterprises, became an everyday occurrence, in that, through abstract expressionism, revealed the founding symbols of modernity. Historically according to Anfram (1990) it is worthy of note, that the western world, in particular, the USA and UK, emerged from the devastation of World War I (WWII). But, more prudently, the USA emerged as the creditor, backer and in the main banker to the countries devastated by the war. A factor to only repeated some decades later. This often if not often obscured action by the USA, brought about the fundamental and sustainable changes in consumerism, fueled by the consistency and often aggressive expansion of industrialization across the Western World. Bringing about what we cited today as modern consumerism. However, what is also of crucial note, in particular for engaging artists, is the rise in the popular movements of mass culture and modern technology. Which impacted upon a world that had suddenly started to grow up out of the vacuum of aggressive conflict. What is abundantly clear from the history of art at this time, is that, Abstract Expressionism, although crisp and modern in its outlook, coupled with its diversity, it nevertheless, lacked clear shape, which was in the main, fuelled by the ever pessimistic negative vibrations that the depression and war years had invoked. Shaking off this cloud of pessimism would take some serious shock waves to kick start a new an meaningful movement that signaled the beginnings of what we now know as abstract expressionism (Gombrich 1984; Levey 1968). The early years of Abstract Expressionism, according to most theorist, (Balken 2005; Polcari 1999; Stangos (ed) 1981 Pickeral 2007); appeared to lacked shape against both this over whelming sense of optimism and yet another more negative vein, which had been intensified by the depression period. The clarity of the pre-depression period as seen in the artistic work of Charles Burchfield and Edward Harper, was fuelled by the onset fear that depression would bring, in so doing, their art revealed the styles that poignantly marked this period. This notional and albeit national fear is expressed in many of the texts used for this review, but, equally cited and noted in the core text by Anfram (1990). Interestingly his work reaches a watershed in which we have an interesting and yet revealing discourse about the artists of the period. However, it is not difficult to find his particular favorite. He in particular, cites in his discourse, the life and work of Pollock, citing the many and meaningful paths that his life took and how this impacted upon his revealing and yet sometimes provocative understanding of the thematic aspects of depression, one might even say, it is depressive and yet expressive art! The critique of Pollock by Anfram (1990), is one of the lighter parts of this text, in that we are provided with a snapshot history of this artist, his struggles and battles to live and develop as an expressive artist. In particular, we find a detailed history of his ancestry, to include the occupational aspects, upbringing and lifestyle of this Jewish family, set against a backdrop of his homeland. But, the most revealing facts are the way in which his argument convincingly places the links between Pollock and other artists like: Guston and Benton. This what could be seen a meeting of minds, signaled in part the foundational beginnings of Abstract Expressionism as we know style it. Some of the facts in the text are fascinating, in that, how life paths merge in the meeting of key personalities who make such significant marks on the landscape of art. For example: Anfram (1990) reveals how Pollock met Guston prior to his enrolment in 1930 at the Art Student League in New York, under the direction of Benton. This in itself to the writer seems uncanny and yet perfectly placed in that what came out of the merging of these personal journeys is a breath taking step in the history of modern art. What is fundamentally clear, is that Pollocks own personal history and upbringing reveals a man who had engaged in and fully experienced the construction of depression in all its many sometimes stark and conflicting facets. His journey is clearly a meaningful aspect of the work of Anfram (1990), who lyrically expresses great interest in ensuring his readers are informed of the important fact about Pollock, but, most importantly, showing how this upbringing, made the man and ultimately the artist and his style. It is worth noting some of those facts. Pollock knew all about the depression as his family had to flea the Baltic states, as a Jewish family like that of his peers, Rothko Siskind, he would have to settle in another land to ensure that it would not be so difficult for him to explore his artistic talents, and so his coming to america was a significant step in the story of Abstract Expressionism. For him to have remained in such a stark country that was consistently engaged in political unrest would have changed the focus of this concept of art as we now know it. It is also fairly obvious that Anfram (1990) has a passion for Guston, in that he equally sets his reader on a research quest from his revealing treatment about this artist. He states that Guston has known all about oppression and in so doing, in equal measure his knowledge of the sectarian movement, known as the Klu Klux Klan, whose membership in the 1920 s prior to the 1930s depression topped a staggering five million. If we place both Pollock and Guston alongside each other patterns emerge, in that, Anfram (1990) clearly wants his readers to make some informed opinion and clarity towards how expressionism was founded. Perhaps the missing signposting of his book is in part due to his stop, think and link approach. If we do just that, we can find that, it does not take long to place the constructions of depression in Pollocks background, and the oppression, noted in Guston background bring together the emotional expressive constructions that are revealed by both artists through their conceptualized notion of what they seen and perceive as Abstract Expressionism, that allows the artist in a sometimes breathtaking manner, to engage the viewers of such works, to think outside the box, in other words, see beyond the form, revealing the pain and emotions that are depression and oppression (Gombrich 1984). Anfram (1990) continues his revealing and yet peppered approach to this important movement with his critique of the 1930s depression, treating his readers to, in part have some understanding of the stuggle and battles fought and won by many of the artists of the period. It is obvious that no artist had had an easy journey, on the contrary, the movement had, brought the conceptualization of what is art kicking and screaming into a more coherent and modern take, that allowed for at best, the artist to think and construct outside the box, in so doing, draw in a more liberalized breath of fresh air in to the stifling world of the artist. As the development of Abstract Expressionism, took root, according to Anfram (1990) the 1950s saw a merging of like minded artists, who for the first time were able to finally break with the traditional constructions that had shackled art. This is poignantly revealed in the citation of the New York, Studio 35 conference, in which what is now know as a contradictory discussion allowed for artist to finally discuss and exchange ideas about how each participant broke with the sometimes constrictive traditional media, techniques and constructs that embedded art at its core. The outcome being, what can only be described as a breach of fresh air. What came out of this merging of minds, were a constituted advance in painting, sculpture and even photography. Questions that once thwarted artists were now in vogue and could be explored without constriction: Should it be Abstract or should it be representational? Would foreigner influence vitiates or even strengthens it? Would expression of feeling of the reality of the medium and of everyday? These were the fundamental poignant questions that came out of it in the 1930s, without which we would never have seen to a certain extent, Cubism, Social Realism to name but two aspect of what can be perceived as art outside the box. Briefly it is worth noting some of the constructs that came forward. At this period of time cubism was the normal Art like that of Bombardnent, who was fully engaged in Realism and Cubism. During the 1941 to 1943 period, Clement Greenburg edited an arts magazine, and befriended serial Abstract Expressionists and would cite them as a representation of a new American Art This coupled with the fact that Gorky in his remarks that Social Realism was the form of poor art for the poor people, where as the writers associated with the magazine Parisian Review, which was funded in the 1934 on the Stalinist times, would express diverse and yet carefully constructed remarks that fuelled the debate that has informed and constructed Abstract Expressionism'(Anfram 1990; Gombrich 1984). The text become repetitive in parts in that, it consistently appears to reinforce the facts presented to the reader for example. It over emphasizes the foundations and founder of what is seen to be modern abstract expressionism. Although what is helpful is the authors pick of the best examples of strong abstract expressionists, like: Newman, Pollock, Greenberg, Hofmann, De-Kooning, Gorky, Graham and Krasner. Pollocks artistic methods are carefully followed and explained, in that is it most obvious to the reader that the author is absolutely enthralled with his work. But, interestingly, he again peppers his work with historical facts like, the fact that: the Boston inst of modern Art switched its titular modern to contemporary and the senator George Dondero, denounced non-academic twenty century painting as communist subversion, so Abstraction once again acquired the radical aura that it held for a previous generation (Anfram 1990). Abstract Expressionism always resisted a single collective identity based on style, theories or even social ties. In comparison to Abstract Expressionism and the modern experience by Stephen Polcari 1999, The book under review, is easier to read and one can understand, and can even in formality of the introduction fined relevant and factual information, from which opinions can be formed, for example: there were few Americans Artists, critics, or even modern art historians of the 1950s and early 1960s who did not cut their teeth on it From it very beginnings, Abstract Expressionism has been interpreted in the light of the cultural and intellect of the 1950s artists and theorist, who understood Abstract Expressionism as Harold Rosenbergs typically defined action painting. According to which the artist theatrically expressed their personal anguish on a blank canvas, with little attention to form, style, or subject matter, for Rosenberg, painting was an autobiographical act of self-creation in the everyday world, and the expression of individual personality. Therefore, it can be viewed that the way that Abstract Expressionism looks to the writer, as if, in typical fashion, you just simply splash your thinking and feelings by just letting yourself go and just splurge it onto a canvas and with such painting, you could in fact come up with a not dissimilar work of art. But, never forgetting in the typical construction of this style, to let the paint do all the work with the brushes. In a shape and form of it own. The reviewed book then goes onto explaining where the movement of abstract expressionism came from and what earlier art movements helped it on its way, this gives any reader far better understanding and layout of what the movement conceptualizes. In the words of the author:- giving the art the best pedigree by linking it with impressionism, Cubism and Surrealism this formalist approach focused on the Abstract expressionism stylistic evolution while proposing for them an exclusive concern with the formal questions: purifying the medium, squeezing out illusionism, and remaking space and a optical rather than tactile . CONCLUSION Therefore, it can be attested, that many of the movements discussed as impacting on abstract expressionism are all clearly linked, one could even say that Surrealism been linked to pagan art, in that, they are all from the same family breeding. So therefore conceptual pagan art would notably come under all of these modernist art movements, even socialism can be placed into this context even if it does have its foundations in Russian history. What is interesting is that, all are from a similar systemic background; perhaps, it could be reviewed that they should all be grouped in one mass movement, like that of the early 20th century movement created through, mass observation. But, what is fundamentally of note, in that, art moves and changes constantly, and for any artist, theorist or aspiring artist, it can be very hard to keep up with it evolution. To note this: the big bang theory of abstract expressionism, as ROBERT ROSEBBERG was wittily called it, argued that this abstract work erupted and suddenly. Fully-grown from virtually no where. This perhaps flippant academic remark, makes it sound that abstract expressionism, grew up to quickly upstage, more formal and founding artistic concepts and movements. But, as one can see in the rise of Surrealism, it took between 10-20 years to mature, so inevitably so will this movement, as it has and continues to do so, with ever evolving creations, like the dynamic art being explored in Paganism. Therefore, it can be concluded that art evolves, movements come and go, but the strength and breadth of the artist will always be creatively and in vogue. BIBLIOGRAPHY ANFAM; D. (1990) Abstract Expressionism Thames Hudson BALKEN; D. (2005) Movement In Modern Art Abstract Expressionism TATE Publishing GOMBRICH; E. H. (1984) The History of Art Fourth Edition; Phaidon. Oxford. LEVEY; M. (1968) A History of Western Art Thames Hudson. London. POLCARI; S. (1999) Abstract Expressionism And The Modern Experience UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE STANGOS; N. (1981) Concepts of Modern Art Thames Hudson

Fragrances Product In India Cultural Studies Essay

Fragrances Product In India Cultural Studies Essay Culture is defined as the social and political forces that influence the growth of a human. It is very important to study on the culture of the product targeting country, because culture sufficiently influences the consumers in many ways. Therefore we should introduce the culture first. Indian culture is diverse, rich and as a result unique in its special way. Manners, ways to communicate with one another are one of the important components of Indian culture. Even though Indian have accepted modern means of living, improved lifestyle, Indian values and beliefs still remain unchanged. A human can change his way of clothing, way of eating and living but the values in a human always remains unchanged because they are deeply rooted into Indian hearts, mind, body and soul which we receive from Indian culture. The culture of India is one of the oldest and exclusive cultures in the world. In India, there is amazing cultural diversity throughout the country. The South, North, and Northeast have their own distinct cultures and almost every state has carved out its own cultural niche. There is hardly any culture in the world that is as varied and unique as India. India is a vast country, having variety of geographical features and climatic conditions. India is home to some of the most ancient civilizations, including four major world religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.  [1]   A combination of these factors has resulted into an exclusive culture- Indian culture. Indian culture is a composite mixture of varying styles and influences. In the matter of cuisine, for instance, the North and the South are totally different. Festivals in India are characterized by color, gaiety, enthusiasm, prayers and rituals. In the realm of music, there are varieties of folk, popular, pop, and classical music. The classical tradition of music in India includes the Carnatic and the Hindustani music. India, a place of diversity, is fascinating with its ancient and complex culture, dazzling contrasts and breathtaking physical beauty. Among the most remarkable features of India, is the arts and culture in particular. The Indian culture has persisted through the ages precisely for the reasons of antiquity, unity, continuity and the universality of its nature. Thus within the ambience of Indian culture one can identify Indian Music, Indian Dance, Indian Cinema, Indian Literature, Indian Cuisine Indian Fairs and Festivals and so on. Indian culture treats guests as god and serves them and takes care of them as if they are a part and parcel of the family itself. Even though when Indian dont have anything to eat, the guests are never left hungry and are always looked after by the members of the family. Respect one another is another lesson that is taught from the books of Indian culture.  [2]  Helpful nature is another striking feature in Indian culture. Indian culture tells us to multiply and distribute joy and happiness and share sadness and pain. It tells Indian that Indian can develop co-operation and better living amongst themselves and subsequently make this world a better place to live in. Nowadays the Indian Culture has crossed the geographic boundaries and has extended globally. No matter Indian or a person from any other country, will be attracted by the exuberant Indian Culture and traditions. 1.1 Life philosophy and Religion of Indian Religion influence http://www.mapsofindia.com/maps/india/religion.jpg Figure 1 Religions in India  [3]   Religions have played the most crucial role in Indian life values. Besides Christianity and Islam, all the other four major religions practiced in India, namely Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism, were born in India and have exerted a powerful combined impact on the Indian thought and philosophy of life. After centuries evolution, Hinduism is the majority religion with 80.5% of the population of India. Islam (13.4%), Christianity (2.3%), Sikhism (1.9%), Buddhism (0.8%) and Jainism (0.4%) are the other minor religions followed by the people of India according to the 2001 census. A religion can be defined as a system of belief in the supernatural, omnipotent and omnipresent power, which controls the destiny of humankind, called God, and who is entitled to obedience and worship. Religion is the personal relationship of humans with God and hence there could be said to be as many religions as individuals. However, some propounded faiths are followed by groups of people and these have come to be called as Religions in common parlance. The contribution of different religious faiths practiced in India to values related to peace and harmony are summarized below: Hinduism has not been proposed by any single individual but has evolved through the ages. As an ethical religion it enunciates four aims of life (a) Dharma (observance of religious and ethical laws); (b) Arth (living an honest life); (c) Kama (satisfying legitimate desires); and (d) Moksha (attaining salvation through emancipation from birth and death and unity with God. Hinduism believes that through moral life humans are elevated to greater spiritual heights. Towards this end, the practice of Yam and Niyam are prescribed. Yama implies: (a) Ahimsa (non -injury to others); (b) Satya (truth); (c) Asteya (non-stealing); (d) Brahmacharya (celibacy during the first 25 years of life); and (e) Apar Graha (non-acquisitiveness).Niyam implies: (a) Shaucha (cleanliness); (b) Tapas (awakening of vital forces); (c)Santosh (contentment); and (d) Swadhyaya (self study/analysis). Shanti (peace) is the highest craving of all Hindus. This includes peace within and peace without. After every ceremony or religious recitation, Hindus pronounce Om Shanti! Shanti! Shanti! i.e., peace to men, peace to forces of nature, and peace to the entire universe. http://www.thekidswindow.co.uk/images/CMScontent/Image/hinduism.jpg http://xaxii.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/mughaltop.png Islam believes the following behaviour-based values: (a) Honesty; (b) Meekness; (c) Politeness; (d) Forgiveness; (e) Goodness; (f) Courage; (g) Veracity; (h) Patience; and (i) Sympathy. Christianity pursue: (a) Love of God and fellow humans; (b) Good conduct for a happy life; (c) Not losing ones soul for worldly gain; (d) Worship of God and service to humankind; (e) Repentance for pardon; (f) Justice, fortitude and temperance; and (g) Avoidance of vices, and sins.https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqK10b6JIFMergxtQWAziXfLGWY1rF8inTEPiDQRX5ziiXBwx8i6m27tB4ZoCFandAaRAgEQbQeB6KM5KSp6COE0dO2mIh1SJMa6_UYpVjGo-TUkGncksaz4eDECw3hRUWDY2SaZaJsA/s1600/nat+geo+india+2.jpg http://news.restoringthepride.com/image/r4249448191.jpg Sikhism advocates the following moral values: (a) Truthfulness; (b) Humility; (c) Charity; (d) Dignity of labor; (e) Character of a saint and the strength of a soldier; and; (f) Noble deeds. Buddhism believes: (a) that right understanding, thought and speech, together with moral peaceful conduct, mental discipline and wisdom, eliminate the causes of suffering in life; (b) that material welfare is only a means and not the end; (c) that a pure life, based on moral and spiritual principles, leads to happiness; (d) that kindness, goodness, charity and truth win over their opposite sentiments; (e) that compassion should be the driving force of action; and (f) that contentment and tolerance are keys to peace and happiness. True renunciation, according to Buddhism, does not mean running away from the world. It is considered more courageous and praiseworthy to practice Buddhism by living among fellow human beings, while helping and serving them. http://www.chakranews.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/jainism-agamas.jpg Jainism proposes the following values: (a) Live and let live; (b) Souls within us are immortal and potentially divine; (c) Self-discipline, moral conduct and self-purification are the goals for spiritual perfection; and (d) Individuals, communities, nations, races.  [4]   Religion tolerance Before proceeding further discussion we should also discuss the often repeated statement that all religions have mutual respect for each other. This seems that natural as we are told that all religions lead to a common goal unity with the Supreme. These thoughts are indeed important. But what is it that inculcates respect about a certain thing? What is the meaning of respect? Respect is defined as high opinion or regarded as for a high quality. In itself it implies recognition of superiority in the thing that is respected. One cannot have respect for something inferior. When a member of one religion claims that he respects another religion, he obviously does not recognize the other religion higher than his own. And if he does consider another religion as superior to his own, it is but natural that he should get himself converted to the other religion, but he does not do so implies that the word respect for him does not connote recognition of superiority or regard for a higher quality. What the term respect implies is tolerance and non-interference as regards other religions. Again, if one religion respects other religions, there would be no conversions into that religion. We know that almost every religion wants to convert members of other religions to it and every religion considers itself the true faith, while other religions are untrue and their members are either pagans, infidels or heretics. Hence it would be inconsistent with the true and evident spirit of religion to say that one religion respects others, what can utmost be said is that while some religions tolerate other religions, most others do not. In my opinion, it needs to be conceded that in India, the pantheistic character of Hinduism, the religion of the majority, has been conducive to the survival of religious tolerance.  [5]   Family http://www.afpionline.com/siteimages/indian-family.jpg Indian family culture is regarded as the most important part of its culture. A family typically has a powerful influence over choices made by its individual members, and of their communities. In India, people learn the essential idea of cultural life within the bosom of a family. In most of the country, the basic units of society are the patrilineal family unit and wider kinship groupings. The most widely desired residential unit is the joint family, ideally consisting of three or four patrilineally related generations, all living under one roof, working, eating, worshiping, and cooperating together in mutually beneficial social and economic activities. Patrilineal joint families include men related through the male line, along with their wives and children. Most young women expect to live with their husbands relatives after marriage, but they retain important bonds with their natal families. Despite of the continuous and increasing impact of urbanization, secularization, and Westernization, the traditional joint household, both in ideal and in practice, remains the primary social force in the lives of most Indians. Loyalty to family is a deeply held ideal for almost everyone. Large families tend to be flexible and well-suited to modern Indian life, especially for the 67 percent of Indians who are farmers or agricultural workers or work in related activities. As in most primarily agricultural societies, few individuals can hope to achieve economic security without being part of a cooperating group of kinsmen. The joint family is also common in cities, where kinship ties can be crucial to obtaining scarce jobs or financial assistance. Numerous prominent Indian families, such as the Tatas, Birlas, and Sarabhais, retain joint family arrangements even as they work together to control some of the countrys largest financial empires. The joint family is an ancient Indian group, but it has made some changes in the late twentieth century. Although several generations living together is the ideal, actual living arrangements vary widely depending on region, social status, and economic circumstance. Many Indians live in joint families that deviate in various ways from the ideal, and many live in nuclear familiesa couple with their unmarried childrenas is the most common pattern in the West. However, even where the ideal joint family is seldom found, there are often strong networks of kinship ties through which economic assistance and other benefits are obtained. Not infrequently, clusters of relatives live very near each other, easily available to respond to the give and take of kinship obligations. Even when relatives cannot actually live in close proximity, they typically maintain strong bonds of kinship and attempt to provide each other with economic help, emotional support, and other benefits. As joint families become ever larger, they are inevitably divided into smaller units, passing through a predictable cycle over time. The breakup of a joint family into smaller units does not necessarily represent the rejection of the joint family ideal. Rather, it is usually a response to a variety of conditions, including the need for some members to move from village to city, or from one city to another to take advantage of employment opportunities. Splitting of the family is often blamed on quarrelling womentypically, the wives of coresident brothers. Although womens disputes may, in fact, lead to family division, mens disagreements do so as well. Despite cultural ideals of brotherly harmony, adult brothers frequently quarrel over land and other matters, leading them to decide to live under separate roofs and divide their property. Frequently, a large joint family divides after the demise of elderly parents, when there is no longer a single authority figure to hold the family fact ions together. After division, each new residential unit, in its turn, usually becomes joint when sons of the family marry and bring their wives to live in the family home.  [6]   Variations in Family Structure Some family types bear special mention because of their unique qualities. In the sub-Himalayan region of Uttar Pradesh, polygyny is commonly practiced. There, among Hindus, a simple polygynous family is composed of a man, his two wives, and their unmarried children. Various other family types occur there, including the supplemented subpolygynous householda woman whose husband lives elsewhere (perhaps with his other wife), her children, plus other adult relatives. Polygyny is also practiced in other parts of India by a tiny minority of the population, especially in families in which the first wife has not been able to bear children. Among the Buddhist people of the mountainous Ladakh District of Jammu and Kashmir, who have cultural ties to Tibet, fraternal polyandry is practiced, and a household may include a set of brothers with their common wife or wives. This family type, in which brothers also share land, is almost certainly linked to the extreme scarcity of cultivable land in the Himalayan region, because it discourages fragmentation of holdings. The peoples of the northeastern hill areas are known for their matriliny, tracing descent and inheritance in the female line rather than the male line. One of the largest of these groups, the Khasisan ethnic or tribal people in the state of Meghalayaare divided into matrilineal clans; the youngest daughter receives almost all of the inheritance including the house. A Khasi husband goes to live in his wifes house. Khasis, many of whom have become Christian, have the highest literacy rate in India, and Khasi women maintain notable authority in the family and community. Perhaps the best known of Indias unusual family types is the traditional Nayar taravad , or great house. The Nayars are a cluster of castes in Kerala. High-ranking and prosperous, the Nayars maintained matrilineal households in which sisters and brothers and their children were the permanent residents. After an official prepuberty marriage, each woman received a series of visiting husbands in her room in the taravad at night. Her children were all legitimate members of the taravad . Property, matrilineally inherited, was managed by the eldest brother of the senior woman. This system, the focus of much anthropological interest, has been disintegrating in the twentieth century, and in the 1990s probably fewer than 5 percent of the Nayars live in matrilineal taravads . Like the Khasis, Nayar women are known for being well-educated and powerful within the family.  [7]   Malabar rite Christians, an ancient community in Kerala, adopted many practices of their powerful Nayar neighbors, including naming their sons for matrilineal forebears. Their kinship system, however, is patrilineal. Kerala Christians have a very high literacy rate, as do most Indian Christian groups. Adulthood A young married couple starts to take adult responsibilities. These include work inside and outside of the home, childbearing and childrearing, developing and maintaining social relationships, fulfilling religious obligations, and enhancing family prosperity and prestige as much as possible. The young husband usually remains resident with his natal family, surrounded by well-known relatives and neighbors. The young bride, however, is typically thrust into a strange household, where she is expected to follow ideal patterns of chaste and cheerfully obedient behavior. Ideally, the Hindu wife should honor her husband as if he were her personal god. Through her marriage, a woman becomes an auspicious wife, adorned with bangles and amulets designed to protect her husbands life and imbued with ritual powers to influence prosperity and procreation. At her wedding, the Hindu bride is likened to Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, in symbolic recognition of the fact that the grooms patrilineage can increase and prosper only through her fertility and labors. Despite this simile, elegantly stated in the nuptial ritual, the young wife is pressed into service as the most subordinate member of her husbands family. If any misfortunes happen to befall her affinal family after her arrival, she may be blamed as the bearer of bad luck. Not surprisingly, some young women find adjusting to these new circumstances extremely upsetting. A small percentage experience psychological distress so severe that they seem to be possessed by outspoken ghosts and spirits. In these difficult early days of a marriage, and later on throughout her life, a woman looks to her natal kin for moral and often economic support. Although she has become part of another household and lineage, she depends on her natal relativesespecially her brothersto back her up in a variety of circumstances. A wide range of long visits home, ritual obligations, gifts, folklore, and songs reflect the significance of a womans lifelong ties to her blood relatives. By producing children, especially highly valued sons, and, ultimately, becoming a mother-in-law herself, a woman gradually improves her position within the conjugal household. In motherhood the married woman finds social approval, economic security, and emotional satisfaction. A man and his wife owe respect and obedience to his parents and other senior relatives. Ideally, all cooperate in the joint family enterprise. Gradually, as the years pass, members of the younger generation take the place of the older generation and become figures of authority and respect. As this transition occurs, it is generally assumed that younger family members will physically care for and support elders until their demise. In their adult years, men and women engage in a wide variety of tasks and occupations strongly linked to socioeconomic status, including caste membership, wealth, place of residence, and many other factors. In general, the higher the status of a family, the less likely its members are to engage in manual labor and the more likely its members are to be served by employees of lower status. Although educated women are increasingly working outside the home, even in urbane circles some negative stigma is still attached to womens employment. In addition, students from high-status families do not work at temporary menial jobs as they do in many Western countries. People of low status work at the many menial tasks that high-status people disdain. Poor women cannot afford to abstain from paid labor, and they work alongside their menfolk in the fields and at construction projects. In low-status families, women are less likely than high-status women to unquestioningly accept the authority of men and even of elders because they are directly responsible for providing income for the family. Among Sweepers, very low-status latrine cleaners, women carry out more of the traditional tasks than do men and hold a relatively less subordinate position in their families than do women of traditional high-status families. Such women are, nonetheless, less powerful in the society at large than are women of economically prosperous high-status families, who control and influence the control of more assets than do poor women. Along with economically supporting themselves, their elders, and their children, adults must maintain and add to the elaborate social networks upon which life depends. Offering gracious hospitality to guests is a key ingredient of proper adult behavior. Adults must also attend to religious matters, carrying out rites intended to protect their families and communities. In these efforts, men and women constantly work for the benefit of their kin groups, castes, and other social units.  [8]   Hierarchy India is a hierarchical society. Within Indian culture, whether in the north or the south, Hindu or Muslim, urban or village, virtually all things, people, and groups of people are ranked according to various essential qualities. If one is attuned to the theme of hierarchy in India, one can discern it everywhere. Although India is a political democracy, in daily life there is little advocacy of or adherence to notions of equality. http://factsanddetails.com/media/2/20120502-638px-Pyramid_of_Caste_system_in_India.png Figure 2 The hierarchy of the India sociaty Castes and caste-like groups, those quintessential groups, with which almost all Indians are associated or are ranked. Within most villages or towns, everyone knows the relative rankings of each locally represented caste, and peoples behavior toward one another is constantly shaped by this knowledge. Between the extremes of the very high and very low castes, however, there is sometimes disagreement on the exact relative ranking of castes clustered in the middle. Castes are primarily associated with Hinduism but also exist among other Indian religious groups. Muslims sometimes expressly deny that they have castesthey state that all Muslims are brothers under Godbut observation of Muslim life in various parts of India reveals the existence of caste like groups and clear concern with social hierarchy. Among Indian Christians, too, differences in caste are acknowledged and maintained. Throughout India, individuals are also ranked according to their wealth and power. For example, there are big men (bare admi , in Hindi) and little men (chhote admi ) everywhere. Big men sit confidently on chairs, while little men come before them to make requests, either standing or crouching down on their haunches, certainly not presuming to sit beside a man of high status as an equal. Even men of nearly equal status who might share a string cot to sit on take their places carefullythe higher-ranking man at the head of the cot, the lower-ranking man at the foot. Within families and kinship groupings, there are many distinctions of hierarchy. Men outrank women of the same or similar age, and senior relatives outrank junior relatives. Several other kinship relations involve formal respect. For example, in northern India, a daughter-in-law of a household shows deference to a daughter of a household. Even among young siblings in a household, there is constant acknowledgment of age differences: younger siblings never address an older sibling by name, but rather by respectful terms for elder brother or elder sister. However, an older sibling may address the younger by name. Even in a business or academic setting, where colleagues may not openly espouse traditional observance of caste or class ranking behavior, they may set up fictive kinship relations, addressing one another by kinship terms reflecting family or village-style hierarchy. For example, a younger colleague might respectfully address an older colleague as chachaji (respected fathers younger brother), gracefully acknowledging the superior position of the older colleague.  [9]   What India Culture Today is Iike http://mychardikalalife.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/420bollywood-4200.jpg?w=420 India culture today was influenced by the ancient culture of India, but something new is happening that is stirring up differences in Indian society. While Indias traditions and core values are pretty much the same as ever, some aspects of the culture have changed drastically. For one thing, younger generations have become more independent and have accepted new ideas from western cultures. For example, sexual expression and display of affection have been kept behind closed doors for the most part in India many past generations, while these things have been culturally accepted in the U.S. and other western countries for a long time now. The older Indian generations still consider it taboo for a man and woman to hold each others hands in public, while younger couples have their own ideas of what is acceptable in India culture today. Essentially, the older generations are beginning to realize that Indias youths are a new and different generation and that they must accept these differences rather than disown their kids. Another visible change in India culture today can be found in Indian films. Mumbai is like Indias Los Angeles, California or New York City. Its the headquarters for production of many of the famous Indian Bollywood Movies. These fantastic films are an expression of Indian art and are filled with great music, amazing dancing, and Indian celebrities. In the past, Bollywood films were pretty conservative in regards to the amount of skin they would reveal and the body language that dance scenes displayed. However, in the last decades, the dancing in Bollywood Films has become much more provocative and the clothing has become much racier than in films of the past. The outfits often look like something you might see on the U.S. show dancing with the Stars. Another change to the traditional culture in India involves arranged marriages. Traditionally, parents found a marriage partner for their son or daughter and would arrange a marriage between the two. In some cases, a man and a woman were promised to one another in their teens and had no say in the decision. Many times, the bride and groom-to-be never actually met until their wedding day! Arranged marriages were popular for hundreds of years. This was in part because pressure from family members was so strong, but mostly because this type of marriage was deeply ingrained in the culture in India. Another factor was that divorce was considered so taboo in India. Many couples stayed together even when unhappy. Flash forward to today, perceived independence brought change. While arranged marriages still exist, they have mutated. India culture today allows young men and women have more freedom of choice. Now many youths pick who they will marry, and most certainly have a chance to meet their future life partner. When Indian families attempt to arrange marriages today, things are done differently. Nowadays, parents of the young man or woman will allow their kids to meet potential mates in advance. If there is not a reciprocal liking between the two, they may decline and meet other candidates. These meetings are like auditions, or speed-dates. The difference being that your family is there with you. Can you say awkward? Well, its better to be uncomfortable for a potentially chemistry-free meeting, than be stuck in a prearranged marriage that may lack chemistry and make a person miserable. Another factor for changes to Indian culture today is the influence of western culture. Many young men and women are sent to the United States, or other countries, to study and to acquire jobs. While away from India, they experience new rights of passage, independence and accept new cultural ideas. Plus, the internet has allowed people from different countries and cultural backgrounds to connect with one another, and to keep up on global events. Its nearly impossible for anyone to be kept in the dark about other cultures or whats going on in the world, given current technologies.  [10]   Bottom line is that India culture today is different from what it used to be, but Indias core traditions and cultural values mostly remain intact. Most important, the Indian culture today is still rich, beautiful and accepting of other cultural beliefs. 1.2 Standards of Beauty in India This section will contain some information about beauty and perfume in India. The main focus will be beauty and fragrance culture for women, given the explained target group. In the present day, the urban Indian woman has a cacophony of voices telling her how she should look, from television and Bollywood to fashion magazines to her family. Depending on the woman, the messages she is hearing may vary significantly from each other. As such, it is necessary to go straight to the sources-advertisements, television, magazines, and the women themselves-to determine what Indian women believe is beautiful, and, by extension, what appearance Indian women strive to attain. It is reasonable to believe that the issues discussed here are similar to those experienced by many urban Indian women, but the rural experience, and even that of women in smaller or more traditional urban center, may be significantly different. Still, in most areas where television and similar mediums have penetrated, Indian women are likely to be absorbing some of the same messages.  [11]   à ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ¾Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬ Ã‚ ¨Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¡ à ¥Ã‚ Ã‚ °Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¦Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¥Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ®Ã‚ ¡Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¾Ã… ½Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¼Ã‹â€ Rename.d ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ° à ¨Ã‚ ·Ã‚ ¯Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ £Ã‚ ° à ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ·Ã‚ ¯Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã…  Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ±Ã¢â‚¬ ¹~à ¦-†¡Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ãƒ ©Ã‹Å"  The most important aspect of skin in India is, of course, a clear complexion. This feature is so important to the imagining of a beautiful Indian woman that it is emphasized in places ranging from the predictable fashion magazines to the more unexpected job advertisement.[30]However, the far

Peoples’ Bank: Linking Business Strategy and Human Resource Management :: Human Resources Essays

The role of human resource management is one of strategic partner, administrative expert, and consultant (managing all of the organization’s people related processes strategically). It is the job of hr management in to recognize that decreased turnover, higher employee morale, and involved employees in the decision making process are all optimal in providing key leverage in an organization’s strategic plan. Management integrate strategic hr management with the organization’s strategy formulation. This means that management has searched the organization and its environment for opportunities and initiated projects and decisions to bring about changes that are both advantageous and competitive for the organization. Through this integration, HR policies must â€Å"cohere and be accepted across all company policy areas and across all hierarchies in the company†. These same HR policies had to be turned into practices that were used by both managers and employees as part of their everyday work. The hr management role has changed tremendously from being a mostly personnel function, consisting primarily of a lot of paper pushing, hiring and firing, to being totally responsible for the maximization of â€Å"human capital effectiveness†. Which primarily creates a better-trained, more flexible workforce that will add more to the bottom line. Peoples’ Bank went through some organizational restructuring in order to stay competitive in the market. As a result of the changes that were made in the Bank’s System, HR Management had to do research and analysis in order to scan the banks new environment to see what types of employees would be needed with the â€Å"new strategy’s skill and organizational requirements. This was a use of HR’s information management skills, which was followed by HR’s integration and change skills to manage the organizational interfaces, assess the organizations skills (or the curren t values of the banks human resource investment), set priorities, anticipate the future, and facilitate the changes. This is an excellent example of HR Management’s role being at every level of the strategic planning process. At Peoples’ Bank, â€Å"massive changes began to take place in the business environment of banking with deregulation and the relaxation of ceilings on interest†. This affected what people actually did with their money and where they actually put their money; and these two factors affected the whole money market system of banking. This especially affected the competition between the different levels of banks (regional, district, and local) for various (but the same) sources of funds.

The Current Status of the Australian Economy :: AustralianEconomics Trade Cycle Essays

The Current Status of the Australian Economy Assignment 3 A Collect, organize, present and analyse a range of data which describes the current state of the Australian economy(with respect to the trade cycle). B Describe and analyse the monetary policy stance which has been adopted by the RBA over the past 2 years. How effective is monetary policy in achieving the policy objectives of the government? Introduction Part A =================== This report contains an informed and balanced analysis of a range of data which assists in depicting the current state of the Australian economy in relation to the trade cycle. Relevant Data For various reasons, economic activity fluctuates from year to year. Periods of rising activity, output and income are called booms and periods of slower activity are called a trough. Generally when real GDP is above 4 per cent p.a. it would be considered a boom year and when there are technically, two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth it would be considered a trough or a recession. In the short term the level of economic activity fluctuates. In some years, growth is fast and business conditions are booming. In other years, the level of activity is slow, so growth in output, income and employment is also less than average. These fluctuations are called the trade cycle. There are a number of economic indicators which are useful for determining what stage of the trade cycle the Australian economy is currently in, such as Gross domestic product, unemployment, inflation, interest rates, building approvals and home loan approval, just to name a few. Changes in Aggregate Demand Changes in the level of Aggregate Demand (AD) are critical determinants of trade cycle fluctuations. GDP is the sum of consumption, investment, government purchases and net exports. Y = C + I + G + NX The following table outlines these elements and influencing factors. Elements of GDP Major factors affecting this component Consumption (C) Disposable income (Yd); interest rates (r); expectations about the future; stock of wealth. Investment (I) Past levels of profit; expectations about the futre business conditions; interest rates (r) Government expenditure Determined in accordance with government policy Net exports Determined by the interplay of C & I conditions in other countries and Australia. Output and Unemployment As Gans, King and Stonecash state, â€Å"Changes in the economy’s output of goods and services are strongly correlated with changes in the economy’s utilization of its labour forces†. Generally as Gross Domestic Product declines then the rate of unemployment rises, basically as companies produce less goods and services, they require less staff or are not employing new members, thus the number of people

Essay --

According to the Victim oriented multi-disciplinary responses to statutory rape training guide, â€Å"Law enforcement often assigns statutory rape cases a much lower priority than incest and forcible rape cases with young children. There is a belief among criminal justice officials that investigation and arrest are a waste of time because prosecutors will not prosecute except in most egregious cases† (Elstein & Smith, 1998). Statutory rape laws should be just as much of a priority as child abuse and forcible rape. Throwing away statutory rape cases is not effective regardless of how hard it is to prosecute. A minor does not know what is best for him or her it should not matter whether or not the victim is willing to testify. If proof that a minor is indeed involved in a cases where his or her partner is considered an adult by law then that person should be convicted. It is hard to prosecute statutory rape cases because most of the ‘victims’ are not willing to test ify against their partners. The minors involved in the cases are usually in the relationship because they want to be not becaus...

Haldiram’s Operations: Business and Marketing Essay

Haldiram’s began as a tiny shop in Bikaner. In1982,it has set up a shop in Delhi Presently, $4million brand and is a familiar sight not only in India, but also on shelves across USA, UK, and the Middle-East. Positioning * Healthy and tasty ready to eat packaged food * Different varieties for South, North , east and west * Varying packet size ranging from 100g to 1Kg Marketing Mix Product Haldiram offers a various products as per customers requirement such as sweets, dairyproducts, snack sets. PRICE: Competitive price to penetrate the unorganized markets. Prices varies according to weights & type of Namkeens & rawmaterials. PLACE: Where customers can purchase the product is also an important factor in determining sales. It is available at Railway outlets & Retail Shops . It is also available in rural & urbanareas PROMOTION: High awareness among the customers . High brand loyalty for Haldiram products. POSITIONING: Haldiram offers ready to eat high quality readily available Indian snacks with excellent Packaging Target Group * Women – Namkeens * Takatak & whoopies – Kids * Sugar free sweets – diabetic and health conscious customers The Marketing Mix Products * Haldiram’s offered a wide range of products to its customers. The product range includednamkeens, sweets, sharbats, bakery items, dairy products, papad and ice-creams (See ExhibitI for details of product range). However, namkeens remained the main focus area for thegroup contributing close to 60% of its total revenues†¦ Pricing * Haldiram’s offered its products at competitive prices in order to penetrate the hugeunorganized market of namkeens and sweets. The company’s pricing strategy took intoconsideration the price conscious nature of consumers in India†¦ Place * Haldiram’s developed a strong distribution network to ensure the widest possible reach for its products in India as well as overseas. From the manufacturing unit, the company’s finishedgoods were passed on to carrying and forwarding (C&F) agents†¦ Promotion * Haldiram’s product promotion had been low key until competition intensified in the snack foods market. The company tied with ‘Profile Advertising’ for promoting its products.Consequently, attractive posters, brochures and mailers were designed to enhance thevisibility of the Haldiram’s brand.

Vans Paper

Vans Homework Assignment (Racquet Club) | | |Stephen Smith | |Shelby Harris | |Lauren Lindsey | |John Krc | |Aleksandra Petronijevic | 1. Product: What products does Vans sell? Vans sells skateboard shoes, appeal, and outer wear for guys and girls. 2. Mission Statement: Describe the Vans mission in less than three sentences. The mission statement of Vans expresses that they want to provide an attractive look to teenage kids.The employees of Vans want their customers to be happy and enjoy their new clothes. 3. Target: Who do they target in terms of gender, geography, lifestyle, income, interests and activities? Vans targets mainly males, but lately females are making a greater appearance. Originally, they focused on the west coast but they quickly expanded eastward. They target younger kids with interests that include: action sports, music, art, and street fashion. 4. Competitive Advantage: How does Vans describe its competitive advantage?How are they different and better than other b rands? They see themselves as the original; therefore, being original is their competitive advantage. They were the first to make the canvas, checkerboard skate and active wear shoes. 5. Distribution: Where is Van’s sold? What is their pyramid distribution strategy? How does it work? Vans are sold at most shoes that sell shoes; however, they decided to only give the mainstream retailers specific shoes. This is to protect their popular shoes in hopes to keep them popular.If only certain stores hold their most popular shoes, the shoes will not sell immensely all at once but will sell well over time. The most exclusive shoes goes to the top of the pyramid sellers and then the middle level shoes go to the more mainstream sellers. 6. What is their strategy in terms of their use of traditional media (TV, radio, magazine, outdoor)? List the different media and examples of specific media vehicles. They mainly rely on magazine promotion. They put their ads in all of the true skate, su rf, snow, and motocross magazines that are available.Then after magazines are events, for example: skateboard competitions, surfing competitions, etc. Next in the line of media is television and radio. 7. What is their strategy in terms of the role of the internet in Van’s communication strategy? Provide examples. 8. What is their promotional strategy in terms of their use of sales promotion with consumers? (samples, tours, contests, vacations, giveaways)? Provide examples. Some promotional strategies used by Vans are documentaries like Dogtown and Z-Boys, which is a 90 minute documentary.Vans has many commercials that advertise their shoes while people are skateboarding. 9. What is their promotional strategy in terms of their use of sales promotion with retailers? (samples, tours, contests, vacations, giveaways)? Provide examples. Vans gives away clothes and shoes to retailers so that they can promote them to customers and get their brand out and make it more well-known. 10. What is their promotional strategy in terms of public relations/publicity where events are staged to engage potential customers and the media? Provide examples including events.Later in their years Vans became a marketing company now their promotional strategies consist of many events such as, The Vans walk tour, Vans Triple Crown surfing, Vans downtown showdown, and many more skateboard, snow board and surfing events. 11. How do they make use of interactive marketing? Vans is known for hosting an array of events that are seemingly enjoyable and fun. It is very interactive more so because the Vice President of the company makes sure of he is at all events in a very approachable form. 12. How do they use spokespersons?Their events where they team up with different television stations and so on stands as there spokesperson. They more so work on letting the brand as a whole speak for itself. 13. How do they use cause marketing? Give examples of sponsorships. Vans uses cause marketing in the ads they have consisting of magazines, events, television and radio. One of cause marketing sponsorships they have is â€Å"Surf Rider† which is an organization founded upon keeping the ocean water clean. Vans teamed up with this organization by making exclusive shoes that has the name of the branch where Surf Rider branches are.Vans causes marketing by magazines and ad’s in only the true skateboard, snowboard and surfing magazines. They host actual events pertaining to all of these events to not only drive sales but form an interpersonal relationship with all Vans customers. Lastly they turn to television and radio to keep the name of the company in the mainstream media. 14. What types of information and research does Vans use to determine the effectiveness of their promotional strategy? Vans information and research comes from â€Å"bottom line†. As well as the constant surveys they receive from countless market research groups.Their website remains the number one action sport website. They also notice at events the numerous amount of clients that are wearing vans everywhere. 15. Do you think Vans’ promotional mix focuses more on a pull strategy or a push strategy? Why? I feel Vans’ promotional mix focuses more on a pull strategy than a push strategy. Vans’ does not chase different competitors out of their range of products. They focus more on pleasing the current clients who are looking for what Vans as a company has to offer. They pride themselves on being original and work on continuing to keep it that way.

To what extent can Lady Macbeth be seen as a female gothic protagonist at the start of the play?

At first meeting, Lady Macbeth appears to us as a ruthless predator, an emancipated woman driven by an all-consuming passion and displaying perfectly, the antithesis of womanhood. She has, it seems, acquired all the necessary requirements to fill the role of a female gothic protagonist. Whether or not she utilises these factors to the full extent and can really be called the protagonist will be discussed in further detail. Her character is not unveiled until Act I Scene V where, with the use of three speeches, she exposes the workings of her mind and lay it out for the audience. Her second speech displays perfectly the idea of Lady Macbeth as a ruthless predator. She calls on the supernatural to ‘unsex me here, And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full Of direst cruelty!’ She asks them to ‘Stop up the access and passage to remorse’ and to ‘make thick’ her blood. Here she displays a woman incapable of any feelings of love or amity, but it is important to think of her before she makes this request. If it is necessary for her to ask for the remittal of her remorse, then she must have had the ability to feel such feelings beforehand. We are given no background information on this woman and it is therefore difficult to say if she was always like this or whether it was Macbeth’s letter that changed her; this appeal she makes is one of few insights into her p ossible mind-set as Lady Macbeth before the play. Her status as a woman who displays the antithesis of womanhood can hardly be doubted, but Lady Macbeth would not have publicised these feelings. We know this from her relation with Duncan who refers to her as ‘our honoured hostess.’ The King of Scotland would hardly encourage a woman to act the way Lady Macbeth does on the audience’s initial meeting with her. Indeed, Lady Macbeth is a woman changed entirely when in the presence of people of such high status. She appears to be a domesticated woman, one happy to be at home while her husband goes out to war to serve as a loyal citizen. And yet, we know otherwise. In her second speech, she refers to her home as ‘my battlements.’ This presumption of hers, this idea that she should own her home and not her husband would have been a farcical one. The most menacing speeches uttered by Lady Macbeth occur not just when she summons iniquity, but when she does so with a language that refutes and distorts her maternal nature. In her second speech, she speaks to these ‘spirits’ and asks that they ‘come to my woman’s breasts, And take my milk for gall†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ This line turns this universally natural feature of womanhood into something dark and troubling. Adding to this, the suggestion of changing a mother’s milk, what she feeds her children on, to poison, is a disgusting one. Further on in the play, Shakespeare manipulates this perversion of motherhood again when Lady Macbeth conveys a fantasy of infanticide: ‘I would, while it was smiling in my face, Have pluck'd my nipple from his boneless gums, And dash'd the brains out†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ This horrific image is so against the searing love a mother feels for her child, that it is impossible for the reader to accept that Lady Macbeth fully comprehends firstly, what she is saying and secondly, that maternal love despite her previous statement of ‘I know how tender ‘tis to love the babe that milks me†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ However, Shakespeare has allowed the reader room for doubt. While we are certain that Lady Macbeth is a woman depraved of all the typical qualities of a homemaker, we do see a potential insight into the Macbeth’s sexual relations and Lady Macbeth’s ‘duty’ as a wife. Here, it appears she abides but it does become apparent that it is her who leads the way. Our insight into this idea is in her first speech where she talks of ‘pour[ing] my spirits in thine ear; And chastis[ing] with the valour of my tongue.’ The suggestion here that Lady Macbeth can impress things on her husband through the use of sex, would have been a shocking one. So while these sexual insinuations suggest the ‘wife’ side of Lady Macbeth, the knowledge that she can manipulate him as such, is once again the perfect display of the antithesis of womanhood. The gothic impact of Lady Macbeth’s indiscretion has less to do with her demonic entreaties, but rather more so with the reversals of her female nature, which show how willing she is to contemplate and fulfil her ambition for power. While certain aspects of her speech allow the reader to imagine her, for a second, as a woman happy to live and serve as a reclaimed wife, her ability to twist and distort words and ideas disallow the audience to hold these thoughts for long. This amalgamation of supernatural desires and her willingness to abandon her sex create, for the reader, a potent force of evil and the perfect female, gothic protagonist. disparagingly of her husband’s ‘human kindness’ but she summons demonic powers with her invocation: ‘Come, you spirits, / That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, / And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full / Of direst cruelty’ (1.5.38-41). She continues in similar vein: ‘Come to my woman’s breasts, / And take my milk for gall’ (1.5.45-46). Her communing with the forces of darkness is expressed in terms that seek to remove the ‘compunctious visitings’ of her female nature. Later, in one of the play’s most disturbing images, Lady Macbeth expresses a fantasy of infanticide: I have given suck, and know How tender ‘tis to love the babe that milks me. I would, while it was smiling in my face, Have pluck’d my nipple from his boneless gums And dashed the brains out However, when it comes to her manipulation of Macbeth, she adopts the powerful weapon of sexual taunting: Art thou afeard To be the same in thine own act and valour As thou art in desire? When you durst do it, then you were a man. Lady Macbeth’s evil allows her at one and the same time to deny her maternal nature and to control her husband by invoking her sexuality. It is this capacity to distort her female identity to gain her political ends that makes Lady Macbeth at once a potent force for evil and a transgressive figure of the female gothic.