Abitur Zusammenfassung

Alternativer Bildtext:

of France and Britain striving for more power and influence Britain wins and owns french territory, prevailing in America but heavily in debt ➤ 1773-1883: Independence War colonized people have to pay taxes to Britain 1773: Boston Tea Party - political protest against Britain colonies win against Britain ► July 4th, 1776: Declaration of Independence forming fathers came together to draft the Declaration of Independence legal foundation of American democracy guideline for future constitution 13 colonies merged into one country with 13 independent states Independence Day is celebrated until today 1 ➤ 1789: American Constitution "we the people..." - government exists to serve its citizens federal system, separation of powers, system of checks and balances "all men are created equal" ➤ 1791: Bill of Rights permanent amendment to the American Constitution contains basic rights and liberties freedom of speech/press/religion, right to assemble, right to a fair trial, right to own a gun Westward expansion and isolationism (19th century) > 1839: Manifest Destiny belief that America is God's chosen country God's will that Americans who had the divine right to civilize the West should spread democracy and capitalism across the entire Northern continent A... peace among different cultures that live side by side is granted superiority over other countries, justification for imperialism tied to the biblical tradition of the "promised land" ideological basis for today's self-perception of America ➤ 1861-1865: Civil War between the Union (North) and the Confederate States (South) Southern states refused to abolish slavery South lived from slaves work on their farmland / North was more industrialized Abraham Lincoln became president and abolished slavery but still segregation, discrimination and racism > 1865-1965: Jim Crow Laws legalized racial segregation denied African Americans the right to vote, hold jobs or get an education "Jim Crow" was a popular blackface show character used to dehumanize black people on TV > 1866: the Ku Klux Klan was founded after the Civil War promoting white supremacy by intimidating, attacking and lynching black people Politics of interventionism (20th century) 1900-1920: peak years of immigration (about 16 million) 1914-1918: World War I US president Wilson declares war against Germany in 1917 "to make the world safe for democracy ... and to end all wars" ► October 1929: the Great Depression began with the Wall Street Crash / Black Thursday Roosevelt's New Deal policy: program to support the unemployed, reform the financial system and prevent a repeat depression > Civil Rights Movement (1950-60s) organized social movement for equality and justice for black people in Southern America nonviolent way to eliminate racial segregation and socioeconomic inequality 1955: Montgomery Bus Boycott - protest against city busses that refused to let black people sit in the front seats 2 Rosa Parks encouraged the community to stand up for their rights since she got arrested for not giving up her bus seat for a white man 1957: Civil Rights Act implemented by president Roosevelt outlawed discrimination based on race or skin color 1963: March on Washington of 200,000 people for freedom and job equality 1963: "I have a dream" speech by Martin Luther King related to his dream of equality 1965: Voting Rights Act - banned unequal election by non-violent protests and activism, the Civil Rights Movement achieved the most important breakthrough in equal rights legislation for black people in America > 1955-1975: Vietnam War A.. late 1960s: Civil Rights leaders Malcolm X and Martin Luther King were murdered following riots lead to additional civil right laws Recent political and social developments (21st century) ► 09/11 (2001) A proxy war during Cold War period South Vietnam supported by the US / North Vietnam backed up by the Soviet Union and China US wanted to prevent Communist takeover of Vietnam vision: fighting for peace in the world nightmare: killing civilians brutally (even bio-chemical weapons), against the idea of peace and respect for more than 20 years terrorists linked to Al-Qaeda hijacked four passenger planes two were flown into the World Trade Center, one into the pentagon and a fourth crashed in a field in Pennsylvania about 3000 people were killed and about 6000 people got injured Osama Bin Laden wants to continue the Jihad with the Al Qaeda US reacted with the war on terror (e.g. invading Afghanistan and Iraq) Islamophobia has increased since 09/11 policy of surveillance increased Bin Laden gets killed in 2011 by american special forces ➤ Iraq War (2003-2011) vision: belief in protective government, bringing peace to Iraq and the world nightmare: thousands of people died, use of fake news to legitimate war, still no peace and democracy in Iraq ➤ Black Lives Matter Movement 2013: Founding after death of Trayvon Martin and acquittal for the murderer global organization fighting the discrimination against black people create unity, equality stop state violence, police violence, unfair treatment in court, nationalism and discrimination against black people, homo- and transsexuals,... demonstrations, polarization, growth through social media 2020: global fame after death of Goerge Floyd due to police violence "I can't breathe" > Me-Too Campaign a hashtag that gave women space for speaking about harassment and sexual abuse > Election 2016: Donald Trump ➤ controversial election: accusations of him having manipulated the election 3 "America first" and "make America great again" populist and protectionist policy does not believe in the human made climate change withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement restriction of the refugees politics wanted to build a wall to Mexico that Mexican government had to pay canceled the agreement about nuclear weapons with the Iran strained relationship with the press threatened North Korea with war divided the country in people against and in favor of him might get elected again in 2024 two impeachments against him for "incitement to rebellion" and "abuse of office" March 2023: Trump faces criminal charges > Election 2020: Joe Biden democrat Joe Biden wins the election against Trump Trump claimed widespread fraud in the election as he lost to Joe Biden January 6th, 2021: storming of the US Capitol by Trump supporters Biden's inauguration speech: American unity, values, pride, American Dream Amanda Gorman's speech (22-year-old African American poet): "The hill we climb" restart, light, hope, strength, healing, repair and pride gun violence easy access to weapons for self-defense and hunting 2010: weapons in 45% of American households high mass shooting, suicide and brutality rate Development and principles of American democracy and the Constitution Principles of the Constitution equality: "all men are created equal" freedom: of speech/to protest/of religion diversity: land of immigration opportunity: from rags to riches justice and fairness "beacon of democracy" and "city upon a hill" Development Declaration of Independence (1776) was model for the American Constitution (1789) individual rights added by the Bill of Rights (1791) today: representative democracy (elected people represent the citizens) Q1.2-3 Living in the American society Migration the US calls itself the "nation immigrants" more than a million people legally immigrate to the US each year 4 History of migration 15th century: arrival of European settlers 17th century: English colonization lead to steady grow of white population and African American population because of slavery 19th/20th century: immigration from Northern and Western Europe to pursue the American Dream 21st century: increase of immigration from Latin America and Asia Reasons for migration push factors: famine, drought, religious persecution, inequality, war, poverty, low living standards, natural disasters, racism, discrimination, lack of freedom (in the home country) pull factors: education, job opportunities, prosperity, industry,equality, higher living standards, political freedom, belief in the American Dream (in the USA) theoretical concepts of immigration to describe American society 1. Melting Pot: immigrants assimilate by giving up their cultural heritage and melt with Americans in order to become one common culture (mainly used in the 19th century) 2. Salad Bowl: immigrants integrate into the American society but still retain their cultural background; different cultures are combined in a pluralistic, diverse and tolerating society (nowadays more politically correct) The American Dream in 1913, historian James Truslow Adams popularized the term "American Dream" the dream includes complex beliefs, religious promises and social and political expectations it says that everyone in the USA can achieve their goals and improve their situation by working hard: "from rags to riches" since settlers came to the New World hoping for a better life and thought they found a land where "milk and honey flows", America is known as the land of hope where dreams come true AMERICAN major elements of the American Dream are equality, liberty, attainability of success, cultural pluralism, religion, progress, democracy, individualism Reality and criticism creates unrealistic hopes for life inequality, racism and discrimination against minorities are ignored US population is highly separated into rich and poor bad / expensive education and crime still exists upward social mobility can not always be achieved through hard work compared to European countries or Canada, the US has a low level of social mobility democracy can be seen as threatened, e.g. through Donald Trump 5 Values and Beliefs Religion belief that America is God's chosen country - Manifest Destiny first Amendment of the Bill of Rights: freedom of religion and separation of religion and state religious diversity caused by multicultural immigrant's heritage christian majority comes from European settlers who escaped religious persecution Islam comes from African slaves problem with religious Creationism in schools that do not teach the evolution story of Darwin Puritanism concept of "Protestant work ethnicity" belief that discipline leads to success plays an important role in American business world puritans brought the idea of democratic self-government with them - Mayflower compact and belief in Manifest Destiny your abilities determine your life fulfillment intolerance towards other religions capitalistic world view duty to help the needy, still generous today when it comes to charity Patriotism definition: devotion to and vigorous support for one's country close link to the concept of Manifest Destiny expanding its territory to the West to become the world's greatest nation belief that American values are the best and should be spread around the world America as a superpower, role model and leader of the world with extraordinary living standards pride as a driving force, e.g. to be the first to land on the moon and beat the Russians pride was damaged during the Vietnam war were the US was defeated by a communist country with poorer ressources the attacks on 09/11 reunited Americans to protect and support their country trust in a protecting and powerful government country overcame many crisis and learned from ups and downs Donald Trump exploited patriotic feelings during his presidential campaign in 2016 by pledging to "Make America great again" education is often self-centered and Americans do not learn much about the rest of the world (e.g. in history) represented by celebrating every 4th of July, national anthem, statue of liberty Individualism huge diversity in which everyone gets what they deserve everyone is self-responsible for their success American Dream as a manifestation of individualism "if you work hard you prosper, if you fail it's your fault" unrealistic beliefs that ignore injustice and luck 6 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee (1960) Summary story of initiation: a story whose overall plot is concerned with putting the protagonist through a particular sort of experience The novel "To Kill a Mockingbird", written by Harper Lee and published in 1960, deals with the experiences of the six-year-old protagonist Scout, who grows up in the fictional town Maycomb in Alabama during the Great Depression. When her father defends a black man in court, Scout and her brother learn about the racist and prejudicial reality of society. Plot: Freytag pyramid exposition rising action climax falling action resolution ➤ chapter 1-6: exposition and inciting incident Scout begins to tell the story in retrospective the neighbor's nephew Dill spends his summer vacation in Maycomb in 1933 bizarre rumors circulate about Arthur Radley ("Boo"), Jem dares to approach the eerie house Dill leaves Maycomb it is Scout's first year at school but she is more educated than the other kids when she comes into conflict with her teacher, Atticus advises his daughter to put herself in her teachers place Jem and Scout discover small gifts in the knotholde of the oak tree at the edge of the Radley property they write a letter to Boo to show himself but Atticus prevents the letter from being delivered; the kids should respect Arthurs seclusion the children try to peek through the Radley's window and get caught; Nathan Radley shoots at the kids Jem loses his pants but later finds them folded in the fence ➤ chapter 7-8: complication (Boo Radley plot) Nathan Radley fills the knothole with mortar the house of neighbor Miss Maudie Atkinson catches fire the children watch and Boo puts a blanket around Scout from behind ➤ chapter 9-11: inciting incident (Tom Robinson plot) Atticus takes over the defense of Tom Robinson, a black man who is in jail due to his accusation of raping Mayella Ewell Atticus is called a "n*****-friend" and a disgrace to his family Jem and Scout get air rifles and Atticus teaches them that it is a sin to target a nightingale 7 Atticus shoots a mad/rabid dog with one shot to protect the Maycomb community; his children see their father from a new perspective Jem and Scout have to read to the grumpy, racist morphine-addict Mrs. Dubose; Atticus shows them what real courage means ➤ chapter 12-14: beginning of part II Calpurnia takes the children to the church of her black community; Scouts interest in black life is awakened the congregation shows solidarity with the family of Tom Robinson Aunt Alexandra moves in unexpectedly; she raises Scout to be a lady and dismisses Calpurnia Dill runs away from his father and spends the rest of the summer in Maycomb ➤ chapter 15-17: climax (Tom Robinson plot) one evening before the trial, a mob wants to break into Tom Robinson's jail and lynch him Atticus sits in front of his chamber to protect him; Scout, Jem and Dill sneak out to join Atticus Scout recognizes Walter Cunningham's father in the mob and engages him in a polite conversation; the atmosphere discharges and the mob leaves the trial begins and the kids watch from the "colored balcony" Sheriff Heck Tate testifies; Mayella was lying on the ground and the right side of her face was beaten; no medical examination had taken place everyone is familiar with the Ewell's poor living conditions Mayella's facial injuries came from a left-handed person; Tom Robinson can not move his left arm; Atticus proves that her father Bob Ewell is left-handed in fact, Mayella had kissed Tom Robinson and her father saw it and hit her brutally Mayella is more afraid of her own father than of Tom Robinson Tom Robinson admits that he "feels sorry" for her, although she is a white woman although he is clearly innocent, it is equally clear that he is doomed to die chapter 18-23: falling action (Tom Robinson plot) Atticus gives a speech and states that this course should never have come to trial, that Mayella broke an unwritten rule of society and that "all men are equal" (- M.L.K.) the jury concludes that Tom Robinson is guilty Bob Ewell ambushes Atticus ➤ chapter 24-26: catastrophe (Tom Robinson plot) Tom Robinson was shot while trying to escape from prison Mr. Underwood from the local newspaper compares the killing of Tom Robinson to the senseless slaughter of innocent songbirds ➤ chapter 27-29: climax (Boo Radley plot) Bob Ewell attacks Jem and Scout when they walk home from a halloween party Jem is injured in a fight, Scout gets caught in a stranglehold Sheriff Heck Tate finds Bob Ewell's dead body at the scene with a knife stuck in his ribs it was Arthur Boo Radley who came to protect the children ➤ chapter 30-31: resolution (Boo Radley plot) Sheriff Heck Tate claims that Bob Ewell fell on his own knife and strongly opposes an investigation in order to protect Boo Radley Arthur Boo lets Scout lead him home and Scout feels grown up; she understands what life is like for him and comprehends Atticus' morals of empathy 8 in the end, both storylines (Boo Radley and Tom Robinson's trial) come together as Boo saved the children from Bob Ewell's attack Characters ➤ Scout (Jean Louise Finch) protagonist and narrator; tells the story from a retrospective looking back on her life 6 years old in the beginning, 9 at the end 1 tomboy, brave girl, behaves like a stereotypical boy and wears boy's clothes curious: spies at the Radley house, follows Atticus to the jail, talks to Mr. Cunningham naive/innocent: asks Atticus what rape is, does not understand the seriousness of the mob in front of Tom Robinsons jail intelligent: knows how to read early, is well educated by Atticus before school starts good relationship to her brother and father, respects and learns from them represents a generation which will grow up without racial prejudice grows up and learns important lessons for life through confrontations during the novel ➤ Jem (Jeremy Finch) 10 years old in the beginning, 13 at the end honest, caring, brave, sporty, adventurous and likable more rational than Scout more sensitive and emotional than Scout, misses their mother outsider, wants to be a normal boy, Scout and Dill are his friends wakes up to the negative truth in life (injustice, racism,...) admires Atticus: wants to study law, wants to keep Atticus' trust, "Atticus is a gentleman just like me" > Atticus Finch single parent, rather old father for Scout and Jem first one to leave the family's cotton farm to study law high respected and well known in Maycomb lawyer in Maycomb County, member of the state legislature committed to racial equality, morality, peace and justice; treats everyone with tolerance, respect and consideration hate-free: tells Scout it is not even okay to hate Hitler stands true to his values: defends Tom Robinson although it hurts his reputation honorable, calm: accepts the lost trial although he knows the truth, admires racist Mrs. Dubose who dies after quitting drugs, respects Bob Ewell teaches his children empathy, forgiveness, equality, justice and different perspectives peaceful pacifist: does not carry a gun although he is a good shooter represents modern developments and the Civil Rights Movement ➤ Dill (Charles Baker Harris) close friends with Scout and Jem, Atticus and Calpurnia consider him as one of their own children vivid imagination, makes up stories about his absent father obsessed with the mystery Boo, entices Jem to lure him from his house ➤Boo (Arthur Radley) reclusive: never leaves his house mistreated as a child by his cruel father, struggles with mental issues rumors depict him as a monster 9 in fact, he is innocent, gentle, protective, kind, intensely shy and cares about the kids ➤ Tom Robinson black man accused of rape by guilty Bob Ewell defended by Atticus family man, father of three, goes to church mockingbird whose innocence is destroyed by the evil ➤ Bob Ewell racist, violent: beats up his daughter for kissing a black man, accuses Tom Robinson trusts the prejudiced jury and the injustice of the system (in his favor) supports white supremacy and absolute immorality prefers alcohol over his family, vulgar language ► Mayella Ewell no social education no friends, lonely, only woman in her family kissed Tom Robinson due to her loneliness but feels ashamed after obedient to her father who violently makes her accuse the innocent black man ➤ Calpurnia black woman and cook of the Finch family essentially raised Scout and Jem, good relationship with the family fills maternal role for the children; strict but loving Scout learns to understand Calpurnia's rules, her strength, intelligence and kindness children's bridge between their white and her black community > Aunt Alexandra represents the opposite education of Calpurnia, both worlds clash together in the Finch house; she dismisses Calpurnia believes in the importance of social class and stereotypical gender roles strictly focuses on Scout becoming a "real lady" > Miss Maudie Atkinson widowed neighbor and childhood friend of the Finch family shares Atticus' passion for justice friend of the children loves gardening, plants and nature ➤ Mr. Walter Cunningham father of Walter Cunningham, classmate of Scout poor farmer part of the lynch mob, displays inner morality and power of peer pressure when Scout's politeness and innocence make him stop the lynching ➤ Dolphus Raymond married to a black woman, pretends to be an alcoholic to be tolerated by society Topics ➤ coming of age Scout and Jem grow up during the novel; dynamic characters they abandon their idealized worldview as they are confronted with reality they reflect on the fallibility of society (e.g. racism, prejudice, social classes, violence, poverty, gender roles,...) Maycomb represents an unenlightened society; Scout grows to become the opposite ➤ gender identity 10 presentation of clear gender roles "you're getting more like a girl everyday"; girls are portrayed weak, obedient and shy social inequality: women are not allowed to vote in court proceedings Scout does not identify with the stereotypical image of a "lady" she is forced to wear a women's school uniform aunt Alexandra represents the social expectations on young girls in the 1930s (Southern womanhood) ➤ concepts of life - living in the country: Atticus Finch represents equality and tolerance knows or is related to the citizens of Maycomb; strong sense of community teaches his children important lessons for life allows his children free development and supports them wise, calm, friendly and open to different perspectives (status, gender, skin color...) ➤ concepts of life - living in the city: Aunt Alexandra stands for materialistic values A. believes in the importance of social classes prejudiced perspective (e.g. Calpurnia) conservative worldview (gender roles, racial discrimination) ➤ prejudice prejudicial class society of Maycomb exclusion because of poverty, skin color, occupation, behavior or gender identity Boo Radley is excluded from society and portrayed as a terrifying through rumors Walter Cunningham is excluded due to his lower social class Atticus is excluded because he defends a black man A Tom Robinson is convicted, sentences and killed because of his skin color black people are considered second-class people; no equal rights but oppression Atticus teaches his children to step into someone's shoes before judging them "There's something in our world that makes men lose their heads - they couldn't be fair if they tried. In our courts, when it's a white man's word against a black man's, the white man always wins. They're ugly, but those are the facts of life." - Atticus to Jem ➤ racism A Maycomb portrays strict racial segregation (Jim Crow Laws) separated churches, areas in court, schools and neighborhoods black community has lower education, less valued jobs and poor rights lynching and shooting of an innocent man because of his blackness eye-opening for injustice, racism and discriminating structures it is clear that Tom Robinson won't win, racism is the leading force in Maycomb Atticus as a role model for his children and the reader ➤ good and evil question if humans are inherently good or evil Atticus represents the understanding that the evil is a part of society and the world teaches his children to tolerate good and evil and treat everyone with respect Jem loses faith in the good when his naive view on the world shatters Scout maintains her belief in the good despite the confrontations with the evil Boo Radley combines good and evil when he murders Bob Ewell to protect the children from his attack ➤ innocence "it is a sin to kill a mockingbird" 11 innocence is always impacted by society Scout and Jem's innocent worldview gets exposed to reality in Tom Robinson's case, racism destroys his innocence Boo Radley's innocence is hurt through rumors and the children's curiosity Mayella's innocence is punished by her racist, violent father ➤ life in the south / class society Maycomb's class society is marked by racism gun-culture plays an important role (Jem and Scout's air rifles; mad dog incident) life in the South was shaken by the Great Depression religion is used as an excuse to discriminate against black members of society under the surface of devout people is pure racism and sexism money, power, gender, ethnicity and social status rule the system; not justice aunt Alexandra calls Walter Cunningham "trash" because of his status being an outsider Scout and Jem show that you do not need many friends to have a valuable character Boo Radley is an outsider who is a good person but portrayed as a scary phantom Tom Robinson is an outsider because of his skin color portrayal of the good characters of outsiders and the importance of empathy breaking standards and norms is essential for a healthy development Motives / symbols the mockingbird "shoot all the bluejays you want, if you can hit 'em, but remember it's a sin to kill a mockingbird" symbol of innocence that gives the novel its name small, harmless, calm bird that causes no harm to anyone mockingbirds belong to the finch species Tom Robinson: wrongly convicted for rape because of strongly prevalent racism Boo Radley: rumors make him a vicious phantom although he is truly kind; punishing him after the murder of Bob Ewell would be a sin like killing a mockingbird Finch family: gets excluded and marginalized for showing solidarity to a black man Bob Ewell is the one who shoots the mockingbirds and has to die because of his sins the mad dog the dangerous dog is a metaphor for racism racism is portrayed as a disease that is widespread in Maycomb Atticus shoots the dog and fights racism the dog Jim Johnson suffers from the disease, Tom Robinson suffers from racism the rest of Maycomb's society is overwhelmed with the situation; they do not see racism or stand up for justice > the oak tree and knothole the tree is slowly dying and ill; it represents Boo's mental struggles the gifts for Jem and Scout in the knothole show that he is kind and caring his attempt to communicate shows his longing for human closeness Different depiction in the film action is reduced from three years to one year increase in speed of narration focus on the Robinson trial 12 the two storylines are connected from the beginning music, camera guidance and voice-over inserts create the characteristic atmosphere Historical background ► takes place in the time of the Great Depression (1929-1939) the "Roaring Twenties" and a boost in industrialization were followed the worst economic downturn society, even well-educated Finch family, suffers from unemployment, poverty and economic inequality AA... ➤ Civil Rights Movement published in 1960 during the CRM Atticus represents the values of equality, freedom and justice comparison of his speech in court and King's "I have a dream" speech > Jim Crow Laws enforced racial segregation relationship between white Mayella Ewell and black Tom Robinson forbidden terrorization of African American population by the law and white communities (lynching) ➤ "Scottsboro Boys" case nine black men were charged with the rape of two white women falsely convicted to death but later in jail; proven innocent years later racial discrimination in court makes it impossible to prove a black man's innocence Harper Lee uses many legal details of this case in her plot Crash - Paul Haggis (2004) Summary officers Ria (latina) and Graham Waters (black) are involved in a minor car crash Farhad, a Persian shop owner, wants to buy bullets in a gun store with his daughter Dorri the white owner becomes frustrated and insults Farhad he calls him "Osama", insults his English and does not sell him bullets Farhad expects him to be prejudiced and speaks aggressively Dorri, still in the store, purchases bullets without knowing what they are later, Farhad wrongly suspects locksmith Daniel of breaking into his store he aims a gun at him and demands money suddenly Lara, Daniels daughter, runs to her father and gets shot by Farhad she survives because Dorri only bought blank cartridges attorney Rick Cabot and his wife Jean walk on the street and see two black men (Anthony and Peter); Jean reacts afraid although nothing happens then, the men point a gun at her and steal their car Rick calms her down and thinks she overreacted, Jean gets angry while searching for the stolen car, Sergeant John Ryan stops the car of a wealthy black couple (Cameron and Christine Thayer) although they are innocent, Ryan performs a molesting body search on Christine Ryan's partner Tom Hansen does not intervene later, he reports Ryan's conduct at his superior Dixon (black man) 13 Dixon does not do anything, it would hurt his own career later, racist Ryan is shown living with his ill father who can not pay insurance he takes out his frustration insulting a black HMO administrator, saying more qualified white men did not get her job Ryan comes across a car crash and sees Christine in an overturned vehicle she resists his assistance, but he gets her out right before the car explodes Anthony and Peter hijack another car, it is Camerons (Christine's husband) Cameron fights back and Peter flees before the police arrives Cameron and Peter drive away with Hansen as the police officer as an excuse for earlier, Hansen lets Cameron be let of with a warning later, hanson picks up a hitchhiker (Peter), who reaches in his pocket thinking he reaches for a gun, Hansen shoots him he realizes Peter was innocent, hides the body and burns his car Waters and Ria arrive at the scene; Peter is Water's brother Q2.1 Great Britain - past and present: the character of a nation Tradition and change British Empire ➤ general facts lasted from the late 16th to the mid 20th century largest empire that has ever existed; covered a quarter of the world's surface known as a trade based empire colonies, protectorates and other territories under the sovereignty of the British crown "empire in which the sun never sets" - stretched far east- and westwards ➤ reasons to rule so much territory Britain was a powerful and wealthy nation conquered indigenous people through army and navy rapid technological advances and important inventions desire to benefit British colonies with trade; monopolies (e.g. East India Company) increase Britain's wealth; search for raw materials, metals,... political urge to prevent other countries expand their territory and power spreading Christianity - comparable to Manifest Destiny USA The first Empire (17th 18th) 1607: colonization of America with the first colony in Jamestown formed the foundation and rise of the empire transatlantic triangular trade (17th-19th) helped Britain to become the world's leading economic power need for raw materials and expansion during the industrial revolution caused oversea wars with other European colonies (of France and Spain) turning point - British Empire lost huge part of its empire in the American War of Independence 13 colonies in North America united and fought to be free from the British rule 1776: gained independence (Declaration of Independence) and became the USA 14 A A... The second Empire (late 18th - early 19th) loss in North America, but new colonies in Canada, Ceylon, India, Australia, South Africa,... strongest in 1920; 25% of the world's population under British rule competition with other European colonists; "Scramble of Africa" gained most of the German colonies after World War I because of the Treaty of Versailles World Wars weakened the UK and the British Empire 1945-1997: decolonization - most former colonies gained independence Industrialization (1750-1900) transformation from an agrarian economy to an industrialized one Britain was wealthy, rich with natural resources and trade relations increase of machines, inventions and mass production unemployment of farm workers; new job fields in the city improved living standards but also caused pauperism Europe faced political instability at that time (e.g. French Revolution) 1750-1850: population in England tripled technical inventions: spinning Jenny, systematic animal breeding, seed drills,... Consequences of the colonial past ➤ within Britain imperial experiences shaped the British worldview until today impacted the perception of themselves and foreign policy Britain's multiculturalism as a nation of immigrants outside of Britain North America and Australia are white English-speaking continents politics and institutions in Africa and Asia are influences by British systems Christianity is widespread in many parts of the world many former colonies are parliamentary democracies the Commonwealth of Nations - an organization of former colonies and the UK The Commonwealth founded in 1931 after the decolonization free association of 53 sovereign states without an official constitution or obligations share British legacy, language and values like democracy, human rights and peace British monarch (now King Charles) is the head of Commonwealth (representative) new goals: fight against terrorism, Aids, illegal immigration, economic recession,... The British Empire - blessing or curse? ➤ blessing education organization and infrastructure technology and inventions lead to work and wealth values of democracy spread of English language facilitates international communication free trading routes improved medical care 15 tried to eliminate barbaric practices like cannibalism and slavery curse A loss of national identity - Britain has invaded 90% of all countries in the world colonies were suppressed by British colonists; no rights slavetrade and brutality exploitation of nature, resources and inhabitants superiority over indigenous people who had to be educated to become "English men" discrimination and prejudices Changes in Great Britain > economic change growing population and rising consumption increasing energy demand improved technology economic inequality; more job opportunities in the South ➤ cultural change 1845-1852: potato famine in Ireland lead to migration immigration after World War II influx of refugees due to wars (e.g. Syria civil war) multiculturalism in three different nations (England, Scotland, Wales) different dialects, music, languages, food, fashion,... known to be a salad bowl rather than a melting pot (USA in the past) political change goal of the empire was to gain power, expand the territory, exercise military force, gain prestige, boost national pride and security today, the UK is a constitutional monarchy with representative values; the real power lies within the parliament important changes after Brexit belief in beneficial impact and pride before the Brexit; realization of negative consequences after Brexit social changes since the early 20th century, the welfare state is a basic principle of the UK policy before that, the poor and needy had to rely on their family, church or charity in the 19th century, being poor was considered a shame 1905-1911: the liberal government introduced a series of public services 1948: the National Health Service (NHS) attended to give every citizen access to free healthcare today, everyone has the right for free treatments and only needs to pay for some Brexit Britain and the EU ➤ difficult relation / skeptical view on the EU member since 1973, joined rather late has not joined the monetary union (Euro) has not joined the Schengen Agreement which permits traveling without borders do not consider EU a close, political union but economic advantage ➤ development of the Brexit 2016: Britain unexpectedly decided to leave the EU in the "in-out-referendum" (51,9%) 16 young people voted for remaining, older people and "Eurosceptics" voted for leaving belief in a strong, independent and superior nation comes from the empire January 31th, 2020: Brexit new trade agreement between UK and EU remains tarif-free status ➤ consequences for the UK economic struggles and inflation poorer and less open to trade unemployment, visa is necessary for workers from the EU delivery problems within the UK Being British National identity common sense of English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh feelings stereotypes: drinking tea, being fanatic over the royal family, eating British food and drinking alcohol, "island mentality" (separated from Europe) actual connections: responsibility, liberty, tolerance, respect, democracy, the rule of law (peaceful coexistence) THE LARGEST ISLAND Q2.2 Ethnic diversity GREAT BRITAIN + SCOTLAND + ENGLAND + WALES 4 UNITED KINGDOM INCLUDING NORTHERN IRELAND Class society your status and social class defines your opportunities factors like education, clothing, language, income, ethnicity,... rather low social mobility SCOTLAND ENGLAND WALES +N. IRELAND Acculturation the process of balancing competing cultural influences Multiculturalism over 30 ethnic communities in London; over 300 languages the majority is not indigenous to the British Isles roots in pluralistic ancestors, maritim position and trade mass immigration of workers to rebuild the economy after World War II Commonwealth changed the immigration laws, possibility to live in the UK migration has an important impact on the British identity different religions BRITISH ISLES SCOTLAND ENGLAND WALES N. IRELAND +IRELAND ALL ISLANDS TOGETHER ➤ integration incorporating individuals from different groups into the society as equals mutual respect from both parties 17 no need to give up own identity or culture willingness to integrate and not separate completely (e.g. using dominant language) salad bowl theory assimilation becoming a part of another society by adapting a new culture no separation of different cultural groups minorities keep some loose associations with their culture of origin melting pot theory deculturation the loss of identification with the culture of origin ➤ rejection completely rejecting the culture of the host nation in favor of the culture of origin separation (from host culture or culture of origin) ► can result in alienation (Entfremdung) and radicalization Generations of immigrants > 1st generation immigrants full assimilation or integration into British society adaptation of Western values proud of being British 2nd generation immigrants alienate from their parent's culture of origin feel too integrated; like a part of their identity is missing stuck between two cultures without truly belonging to either one leads to a crisis of identity, isolation, alienation, radicalization, violence,... Prejudice vs. one-track-mind prejudice: preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience one-track-mind: tendency to think about or be interested in a single subject; biased and rigid perspective Short Stories - Cultural Encounters "three stories exploring the colonial legacy" cultural diversity, alienation, integration in modern Britain, traces of the colonial past My Son the Fanatic - Hanif Kureishi (1994) Summary Parvez, a Pakistani immigrant who lives in the UK and works as a taxi driver, notices that a change in the behavior of his son Ali Ali was a normal student, good at sports, had English friends and a girlfriend now he broke up with his girlfriend, gets rid of his possessions, isolates himself and does not communicate with his father Parvez talks to his colleagues and suspects Ali of drugs Parvez' friend and prostitute Bettina gives him advice Ali clearly does not take drugs; but now he prays five times day and grows a beard 18 Parvez does not think much of religion and wants to talk to is son over dinner they start a fight and Parvez drinks to much alcohol Ali criticizes his father for breaking the rules of Islam Ali wants wants to quit school to work in prison, although his father works hard to pay for his education; he expresses his opinion against England, Western Culture and Christianity; he wants to bring the "Law of Islam" to the world and believes in Jihad Parvez drinks alcohol, eats pork, plays cards and talks to a prostitute instead of Ali's mother; Ali thinks he is too integrated in Western society Parvez wants Ali to leave the house because of his radicalization as a child, Parvez fell asleep while studying the Koran and they attached a string to his hair to hold up his head; bad experiences with religion frustrate him Bettina convinces him to try and understand his son and he grows a beard in a final conversation, it gets clear that Parvez loves the Western world, his values in life are respect and the enjoyment of life and he wants Ali to assimilate as well Ali still despises his father and insults Bettina, who jumps out of the moving car Parvez gets drunk at home and physically attacks Ali until he bleeds without defending himself at all, Ali asks "So who's the fanatic now?" Narrator an unnamed and passive voice tells the story from Parvez' perspective and gives insight in his perception of the events Characters religion the West philosophy way of life education Parvez - avoids religion - embarrassed himself while reading the Koran - his friends make fun of religious people - "I love England" - enjoys Western culture - assimilated completely wants his son to appreciate the successful migration - "we are only human" after death, you rot in the earth but your genetics will live in the next generation - importance of respect, especially for parents - enjoys the little things in life - becomes addicted to alcohol shares problems with his friends - taxi driver for 20 years - works to give Ali education for a good future Ali - strict /fanatic Muslim prays 5 times a day criticizes Parvez' behavior - wants to participate in holy war of Jihad feels unwelcome, mutual hatred towards the arrogant, materialistic British - excludes himself, alienates - lost a part of his identity - "there is more to the world than the West" but he never left England directed by the Koran - only a strict religious life is worthy - belief in paradise and hell - threatens non-Muslims with Jihad against other religions, homosexuals, drug users, prostitutes,... - only cares for "more important things" isolates himself gives up his freedom for Islam old Ali: attentive student, good grades -new Ali: gives up education to work in prison with poor Muslims against Western anti-religious education 19 A.. consequences - chose to immigrate, assimilate and deculturate by himself - feels at home in England - lost sight of his roots - dream: the ideal migration story - 1st generation immigrant Topics clash of cultures 1st and 2nd generation immigrants Muslims in the UK alienation/rejection -> identity crisis -> extremism/radicalization Who is the fanatic now? ➤ Ali - was born into the Western world does not know his roots which leads to an identity crisis and radicalization from integration to rejection - dream: convincing everyone of Islam 2nd generation immigrant religious fundamentalist what die for his religion, believes and threatens in Jihad does not tolerate other opinions isolates himself and rejects his father completely ➤ Parvez idealistic dreams of his son's future incapable of controlling his emotions: alcohol, rage, violence spies on his son beats his son out of frustration Background: Islam in Britain Muslim migration mainly from former colonies many brought their family and settled like Parvez problem of discrimination against Muslims; feeling of ion since the 90s, anti-Islamic groups and Muslim neo fundamentalist groups rise increase of radicalization of 2nd generation immigrants Reasons for radicalization standing between competing cultures; struggle of acculturation loss of your culture of origin 2nd generation immigrants do not chose to emigrate rejection, isolation, alienation experiencing racism and discrimination influence of peer groups, gang culture radical extremist groups offer a sense of identity, community and self-esteem Ways to prevent radicalization active community action, sticking together communication between coexisting religions closer ties between new culture and culture of origin mutual acceptance, strengthening integration reduce in social inequality against minority groups flexibility and openness for different beliefs within one family 20 Shooting an Elephant - George Orwell (1936) semi-biographical essay: the author worked as a colonial police officer in Burma during the British Raj (British rule in India); sympathized with the oppressed natives but has to represent the British Summary takes place in Burma (part of British India that time) protagonist and first person narrator is a young British officer working for the imperial police ambivalent feeling: he despises the British imperialism and secretly sympathizes with the oppressed people, but they despise him for his work and treat him with disrespect one day, he has to take care of an aggressive elephant who raged a bazar he sees that the wild animal has killed a native man he takes his rifle to scare the animal away, a crowd of Burmese people follow him, excited to see him shoot the animal the elephant seems peaceful and he does not want to shoot but feels pressured realizes that imperialism has the loss of freedom as a consequence and that he has to represent the superiority of the British over the Burmese to not disappoint feels like a marionette and shoots the elephant five times and again with a small rifle the animal dies slowly and painfully and he leaves because he can not see it the Burmese pull the valuable meat off the bones afterwards, there is a discussion about the justification of his actions, the narrator thinks he did the right thing and wonders whether people knew that he only did it to not look like a fool Characters ➤ protagonist represents the British empire towards the Burmese people sees imperialism as an "evil thing" and hates his job sympathizes with but hates the Burmese because they harass him feels alone, guilty and pressured to show superiority outside expectations control his actions instead of his own moral compass his position impacts his attitude; he racially discriminates against the "yellow faces" reversed roles: feels oppressed by the oppressor British Empire but never describes the natives as "oppressed" ➤ Burmese people oppressed and dehumanized by British Raj hate the empire and consider the protagonist the face of the empire disrespect and harass him pressure him and use the fact that they have power over his self-esteem and pride have no weapons, depend on the superior power Topics colonialism imperialism portrayed as evil still offers the protagonist his job paradoxy: results in hatred from both parties (oppressed and oppressor suffer) 21 expectations and pressure destroy freedom ➤ power unbalanced power relation: one person against an entire country one weapon gives a person the power to kill a giant animal executive power of the protagonist against psychological power of the Burmese ➤ principles conflict between morality and expectations shares the oppressed opinions but can not act on it kills an animal although it is against his principles pride outweighs morality Motives/Symbols > the elephant I innocent like the oppressed countries gets killed by the empire only to present power only reacts with violence because he is shackled and his freedom is taken elephant and murderer are powerful but yet puppets under control of the master the elephant in native and the gun is from Germany; European invader killing natives could symbolize the slowly dying empire reversal of power when the Burmese take the meat causes useless chaos in the beginning and kills a native man personification: protagonist refers to the animal with "he/him" The Embassy of Cambodia - Zadie Smith (2013) Summary takes place in Willesden, London in 2012 the protagonist Fatou is an illegal immigrant from the Ivory Coast she works as a maid for the Derewals who disrespect and exploit her they have three children named Asma, Julie and Faizul the story begins with the description of the embassy of Cambodia next to the embassy is a health center where Fatou goes swimming using a stolen member card from the Derewals behind the wall of the embassy, Fatou sees a shuttlecock flying from one side to the other and hears the "pock smash, pock smash" one day, Fatou reads about slavery in a magazine and thinks that this word does not describe her situation properly on Sundays she goes to church and meets her Nigerian friend Andrew they have deep conversations about history, politics, her job, religion, colonialism,... she feels more confident and emancipated when talking to Andrew one day, Asma swallows a marble and Fatou saves her life, Mr. Derewal thanks her but Mrs. Derewal ignores the accident Fatou realizes that Andrew can not swim but wants to spend time with her; she thinks he is "a good man" but is not attracted to him the same evening, Fatou gets fired without apparent reason she has to ask to get her passport back and leaves with a plastic bag and the health center card, but without her Oyster card for the bus 22 Andrew helps her find a new job and lets her sleep at his place ironically, she feels relieved and "washed clean" now in the end, she watches the badminton game again A, Plot: Freytag's pyramid exposition: the African woman Fatou is exploited by the Derewals rising action: Fatou saves Asma's life climax: Fatou gets fired falling action: Andrew helps her out solution: open ending but somehow feels better now ➤ Fatou African woman from the Ivory Coast used to work in a hotel in Ghana with her father where she got raped by a russian guest when she was 18 Characters her father paid to illegally get her to Europe she worked as a cleaning lady in a Catholic school now she works for the Derewals who do not pay her, took her passport and do not let her leave the house except for shopping or meeting Andrew she steals the member card to go swimming she is optimistic, strong and resilient but also dependent develops from being dependant and unconfident to confident and emancipated ➤ Andrew AI immigrant from Nigeria studies economics in London, has intellectual conversations with Fatou goes to church every Sunday and believes in the goodness of God respects and supports Fatou ➤ family Derewal own a small market and have three children immigrants from Pakistan but wealthier than Fatou disrespect and exploit Fatou; Mrs. Derewal has beaten her a few times the children disrespect and make fun of her Narration an omniscient first-person narrator who is not an immigrant and represents all the people of Willesden - "We, the people of Willesden" observes Fatou's life and comments on the story overlooking the embassy from the balcony because there is nothing better to do prejudiced but self-reflective perspective Topics > multiculturalism and integration Willenden as a multicultural environment young people live in the city, old people work on farms various religions are presented Fatou is not an equal member of society, the two-classed society rejects her as an illegal immigrant 23 ➤ racism Fatou feels like African people are "born to suffer more than the rest" Andrew thinks everyone gets equally discriminated against but everyone only thinks about themselves ➤ gender Fatou realizes based on her experiences that men act superior to women "I never met a man who didn't want to tell everybody how to think and what to do" Motives/Symbols the badminton game the story's 21 chapters (0-1 to 0-21) represent an increasing badminton score where one player gets all points and the other one fails symbol of multiculturalism the to parties show different attitudes and different goals: one is aggressive and wins and one is defensive and loses he host nation's citizens do not interact with immigrants and prevent integration in the end (0-21) Fatou loses and gets fired Fatou works hard and passionately but the Derewals reject and disrespect her "pock" is defensive and weak; "smash" is aggressive > the embassy a surprise for everyone because it would usually be in a suburb area represents immigrants like Fatou who do not belong in this area and are ignored or even rejected the wall splits society and prevents an interaction an embassy stands for intercultural communication, but nobody seems to work in there, they only play badminton Modern slavery - is Fatou a modern slave? pro: they hide her passport so she can not leave, they abuse her illegal status to exploit her, she is inferior, she gets beaten and disrespected, she gets fired for no reason con: the family is immigrated as well, she can leave the house to go to church or meet her friend, she dares to take their member cards Q2.3 The English-speaking world Ireland: past and present General information Ireland: name of the island Republic of Ireland: Southern part of Ireland Northern Ireland: part of the UK about 90% Catholic The History of Ireland ➤ the celts 4th century BC: Celts arrived in Ireland 382 米 Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) Belfast 22 IRISH SEA Republic of Ireland Dublin (European Union) 24 RUC St. Patrick christianized the island 4th-9th: celtic civilization developed well "Golden Age" in culture, intellect and art ► the British impose power on Ireland until 15th: England and Ireland were equal 15th-16th: England settled Protestants from Scotland in Northern Ireland 1650: Oliver Cromwell conducts a genocidal campaign against the Irish; Irish population was halved and Irish people were shipped to America as slaves more Protestant settlers came to Ireland A.. 1801: Ireland joins the UK Irish had to adapt the English language and culture England oppressed, exploited and colonized Ireland systematically by forcing protestantism on the Catholic country 1845: "Great Famine" potatoes were infected (potato blight) but people had to eat them according to Sinéad O'Connor, the healthy food was shipped out of the country to England under armed guards caused homelessness, diseases, poverty, drug abuse, alcoholism, PTSD,... over a million people died the British did not feel responsible and excluded the Irish with "laissez-faire" policy Britain blamed the Irish; the USA supported Ireland instead caused a migration wave, 50% emigrated to the USA anti-british sentiment in Ireland until today ► 20th: divided island 1912: English government agreed on "Home Rule Movement" for self-government 1918: Guerilla war - war against the British government British ruling class portioned Ireland into a "Free State" (later Republic) ans "Northern Ireland" Free State was mainly Catholic; Northern ireland mainly British Protestants Britain lost power over Ireland and their cheap source for food ➤ Civil War after partition two violent groups emerged IRA: for the Republic, young Catholic nationalists linked to the party "Sinn Finn" RCU. for Northern Ireland and the Protestant part, in service of the British crown ➤ 1960s: "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland brutal fights between British soldiers and the IRA 1972: "Bloody Sunday" - British soldiers violently shut down a Civil Rights Movement against the discrimination of catholics 1972-1974: government of Northern Ireland is suspended, direct rule from Westminster is introduced 1994: finally search for peace; American influence ➤ 1998: "Good Friday Agreement" - no hard border between GB, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland separated governments for peace and progress Northern Ireland can leave UK and create one united Ireland whenever society votes ➤ peace and conflict today unstable but more peaceful relations between Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain 25 half of Northern Ireland's government is for the UK, the other half against IRA and other radical groups still want to stop the power of GB and North Ireland ➤ influence of Brexit Brexit led to a "hard border" between Ireland and Northern Ireland violent conflicts came up again The Celtic Tiger 1995-2007: period of rapid economic growth "from depression to delight" higher living standard, decrease of unemployment, higher consumption church attendance shrank by over 50% Ireland needed workers, even from the USA where they had to emigrate to before and from England, the "old colonial master" modern lifestyle lead to more traffic, stress, suicide and a loss of tradition 2008/2009: global economy crisis Emigration development potato famine emigration celtic tiger Dilemma immigration economy crisis. emigration Q3.1 Human dilemmas in fiction and real life Irish Love my Enemy - Kate MacLachlan Zee, a British Protestant girl, is in love with Conor O'Keefe, an Irish Catholic boy at a fire, violent men call Conor a "Fenian" (Irish republican member) the crowd is angry because of the Irish boy Zee's brother Gary and his friend Des threaten and discriminate against Conor "What the hell are you doing with the likes of him?" / "Stick to your own kind" Gary does not want peace: "Peace? Too many scores to be settled for that" Zee "can't wait to get out of this country" even if the peace in Ireland comes, there is still hatred and prejudice deep down non-nationals a situation necessitating a choice between two equally undesirable alternatives e.g. safety vs. freedom; surveillance vs. privacy; environment vs. economy 26 Examples To Kill a Mockingbird: law vs. morality; conviction vs. reputation My Son the Fanatic: religion vs. freedom; assimilation vs. deculturation Shooting an Elephant: expectation vs. moral belief Extreme situations psychological challenges: mental illness, strong emotions, stress,... physical challenges: competition, fight-or-flight reaction, violence,... environmental factors: war, natural catastrophes, bad living conditions, poverty,... Examples To Kill a Mockingbird: racial acts of violence, the mad dog incident My Son the Fanatic: disagreement and violence, competing beliefs Othello: extreme jealousy, love and hatred Being different physical differences: skin color, outward experience, disabilities,... psychological differences: sexual orientation, gender, religion, culture, beliefs,... Examples To Kill a Mockingbird: Atticus' mindset differs from the rest of Maycomb; Scout does not identify with stereotypical feminine attributes, Boo isolates himself My Son the Fanatic: Ali and Parvez have different beliefs Othello: gets discriminated against because of his skin color Elizabethan England - an introduction to the Golden Age 1558-1603 during Renaissance named after Queen Elizabeth I who ruled the monarchy Anglo-Spanish war, defeat of the Spanish armada The "Golden Age" ➤ prosperity employment increased new science and technology exploration brought new territory and prestige (first colonies) trade expanded rapidly and brought great wealth ➤ economy stabilized currency planting colonies economic growth England as the leading sea power ➤ peace united Britain without conflicts on the borders 27 war in spain, but rather stable and peaceful in comparison ➤ flourishing arts intellectual and poetic freedom London as a commercial and cultural center of art highlight in English literature (Shakespeare) ➤ new worldview humanism of Renaissance discovery of the New World new view at the universe returned to Protestant faith Downsides steady changes and brought confusion and fear of losing traditional beliefs limitation of freedom: controlled church, no freedom of expression,... critic against the Queen was followed by brutal punishments immense number of sickness and plagues Structure of society strong gap between rich and poor majority of poor farmers dependant on the Queen majority could not read and write; but many enjoyed art, music and literature Sumptuary Laws: regulated marriages, clothes,... according to classes worldview used as a justification for the class-ridden society and hierarchy linked to the Great Chain of Being and the Wheel of Fortune men: supporter, protector, professional jobs, all roles in plays, inherited property women: belonged to father or husband, allowed to marry from the age of 12, children care and cooking, no women's rights society classes: sovereign/nobility > clergy/gentry/merchants > middle class/farmers > landless > unemployed/homeless World picture everything is structured in order of superiority heliocentric worldview: planets revolve around the sun God positioned everything in the world cosmic and human dimensions are linked together The Divine Right of Kings: monarchy is God-given the four elements: everything and everybody is made out of a combination of fire, water, earth and air The Wheel of Fortune: stars predominate people's fate, life goes up and down like a wheel belief in superstitious signs for luck, bad luck and punishment 28 The Great Chain of Being the world is ruled by a higher power: God God has a representative on earth: the Queen all parts of the world are harmoniously working together fixed hierarchy of things Religion ruled by Catholics belief in hell and the devil conflicts with Protestants Queen appointed by God belief in the afterlife and witches Shakespeare and the world of theatre William Shakespeare *1564 +1616 in Stratford English playwright, poet and actor wrote mainly comedies and tragedies 38 dramas, 154 sonnets, verse poems translated into every major language still performed around the world God Angels Humanity Animals Plants outdated language outdated worldview, attitudes and values Matter The Globe theatre opened in 1599 could host about 3000 people no "etiquette": theatres were loud, rowdy places with drunk people price of the ticket determined where you seat only men were allowed to be actors spectacular costumes, gestures,... Nothingness invented over 3,000 new words and phrases early modern English (Elizabethan English) until 1690 topics: fight over power, tyranny, human nature, society, love, hate, revenge,... Should we still read Shakespeare in school? ➤ pro timeless topics; open for interpretation influenced modern language, movies, literature part of British culture ➤ con baffl 29 Globe theatre - open roof for daylight - no technology: effort in speech, gesture and facial expression - no rules for behavior A.. - people standing in the pit or in galleries Othello - William Shakespeare (1603) the tragic play "Othello", written by William Shakespeare in 1603, tells the story of a Venetian general named Othello, whose life and marriage are ruined by his manipulative and deceitful antagonist lago Modern theatre Summary Act I, Scene 1 - electricity; closed building - technical support for sound, scenery, light, special effects,... - rules for behavior everyone sitting in seats Plot: Freytag's pyramid exposition (Act 1): introduction of the main characters, lago prepares his manipulation rising action (Act II): lago lies to make Othello jealous climax/turning point (Act III, Sc. 3): Othello's love turns into hate, he wants revenge falling action (Act IV): Othello is completely blinded by lago's intrigues catastrophe (Act V): truth is revealed; Roderigo, Desdemona, Emilia and Othello die Othello promotes Cassio instead of lago lago convinces Roderigo to assist him telling Brabantio about Othello and Desdemona's secret marriage ➤ Act I, Scene 2 lago warns Othello about Brabantio's anger; pretends to be his friend Brabantio accuses Othello of using drugs or witchcraft to gain Desdemona's love Othello deescalates the situation and is called to an urgent meeting Brabantio wants to bring the course to the duke ➤ Act I, Scene 3 at the duke, Othello explains that he truly loves Desdemona and that she loves him for the dangers he experienced Desdemona confesses her love and choses Othello over her father lago reveals that he hates Othello Othello is called to leave for Cyprus, Desdemona decides to join him as Roderigo wants to drown himself, lago manipulates him to convince Othello of the affair between Desdemona and Cassio > Act II, Scene 1 lago is jealous of Othello's position and thinks he slept with his Emilia lago, Emilia and Desdemona talk about men and women Roderigo believes that Cassio is in love with Desdemona as well ➤ (Act II, Scene 2) 30 ➤ Act II, Scene 3 lago makes Cassio drunk; he gets in a fight with Montano Othello arrives and fires Cassio lago advises the desperate Cassio to ask Desdemona for help (Act III, Scene 1) ➤ ➤ (Act III, Scene 2) Act III, Scene 3 at first, Othello is sure about Desdemona's love for him Othello drops the handkerchief and Emilia brings it to lago lago plants the seed of jealousy; Othello wants to see proofs lago lies that he heard Cassio talking about Desdemona in his dreams and that he saw him with her handkerchief turning point: Othello believes in Desdemona's affair his love turns into hate and he wants to kill Cassio and Desdemona ➤ Act III, Scene 4 Desdemona does not understand his anger > Act IV, Scene 1 A Emilia lies to Desdemona about the lost handkerchief Othello confronts Desdemona and asks for the handkerchief .. A Othello falls into an epileptic fit while talking to lago lago makes Othello hear how he talks with Cassio about Desdemona although they actually talk about Bianca Othello and lago plan to kill Cassio and Desdemona this night Othello is called back to Venice > Act IV, Scene 2 Othello yells at Desdemona, who begs for mercy and says she is innocent Desdemona and Emilia ask lago for help who calms them down lago wins Roderigo to help him murder Cassio ➤ Act IV, Scene 3 foreshadowing of Desdemona's death Emilia and Desdemona talk about adultery, loyalty and gender roles she sings the willow song > Act V, Scene 1 Roderigo is supposed to kill Cassio but gets stabbed lago murders Roderigo lago pretends to help Cassio, who got stabbed by Roderigo > Act V, Scene 2 tragic ending Othello kills his love Desdemona by violently smothering her Emilia comes in to tell Othello that Roderigo is dead Desdemona speaks her last words saying that she is innocent but killed herself Othello tells Emilia about the adultery, she understands lago's intrigue as Emilia reveals lago's true face, he stabs her and she dies Othello realizes that he has killed his innocent wife and commits suicide lago is arrested Cassio becomes the new governor of Cyprus 31 Characters ➤ Othello protagonist tragic hero: misfortune caused by error of judgement; development from happiness to misery; qualities of excellence and nobleness; title, power and position can not save him; strong element of hopefulness Christian black man from Northern Africa well-respected because of his position and work as a soldier still not entirely accepted because of his skin color and ethnicity secretly marries the white Desdemona out of love does not know the nature of jealousy, which makes him fall for lago at the beginning: calm, noble, charismatic, rational, trustworthy, honorable,... at the end: jealous, violent, insecure, desperate, irrational, impetuous, gullible,... language: reflected, structured, honest (Verse) -> confused, chaotic, irrational, impulsive; interior monologues, rhetorical questions (Prose) ➤ lago Othello's antagonist "honest lago"; enjoys trust of other characters experienced soldier hatred toward Othello (promotion, accusation of sleeping with Emilia,...) makes Othello question Desdemona's loyalty actively creates false proof to convince Othello uses his knowledge about the nature of jealousy does not feel guilty plays with other people like marionettes to reach his goals does not respect women evil, manipulative, two-faced, egoistic, violent, envious, ambitious, intelligent,... ➤ Desdemona Othello's wife stands for innocence and loyalty would never commit adultery loves Othello for his experiences and strength stands up for herself, equal relationship choses her husband instead of showing obedience to her father rather emancipated, but young and inexperienced suffers from domestic violence and is killed because of lago gentle, loyal, innocent, loving, desirable, confident, hopeful, empathetic, passionate,.. ➤ Emilia lago's wife and Desdemona's attendant does not completely trust her husband bound to her mistress, shares thoughts and advice with Desdemona still no honest friends, lies to her about the handkerchief she dies after seeking atonement and revealing lago's true face emancipated, feminist beliefs, stands for equality and women rights ➤ Roderigo rich, young Venetian man in love with Desdemona; therefore hatred towards Othello easily manipulated by lago; naive and not very intelligent 32 pays him money for destroying Othello and Desdemona's marriage ➤ Cassio Othello's recently proclaimed lieutenant intelligent but young and inexperienced fired after drinking and getting in a fight devoted, loyal, honest, naive ➤ Brabantio Desdemona's father does not approve of the secret marriage was informed by lago and got angry accuses Othello as a black man of having manipulated his daughter racist, conservative Topics ➤ the nature of jealousy - "the green-ey'd monster, which doth mock that meat it feeds on" fear of using a loved one envying a person's position, talent or title lack of self-esteem controlled by emotions instead of thinking rationally trust in false evidence or rumors raised awareness of potential signs; seeing evidence where there is none lack of communication comparison or competition frustration, anger, impulsiveness, naivety ➤ racism "the Moor" "an old black ram is tupping your white ewe" "lascivious Moor" "extravagant wheeling stranger" "Barbary horse" "thicklips" "devil" "thief" ➤ love untypical for that time to marry out of love instead of social status Othello and Desdemona share a forbidden love Brabantio and society disapprove; comparable to Jim Crow Laws Desdemona defends her marriage jealousy destroys their marriage Othello is blinded by his love: "one that loved not wisely, but too well they love each other till the end: she does not say who killed her / he dies upon a kiss revenge lago wants to take revenge on Othello and Cassio (sleeping with Emilia,...) Brabantio brings Othello to the Duke for secretly marrying his daughter Emilia considers revenge if a man would cheat on her Othello wants to kill Desdemona and Cassio for committing adultery lago kills Emilia after she revealed the truth 33 Othello injures lago after finding out about the truth he commits suicide after realizing that he killed his innocent wife ➤ violence psychological abuse: racism, lies,... physical violence as a solution: Othello experienced violence in the past murder as a way to keep your honor and reputation ► appearance vs, reality lago as a two-faced character "I am not what I am" Othello believes in false proof and rumors ➤ gender issues and feminism patriarchal structures in class-ridden society women have to be silent, inferior and obedient men objectify, sexualize and instrumentalize women Brabantio expects Desdemona to show obedience to him Emilia is more emancipated, defends herself and her sex she believes that adultery is not only a woman's fault in the end, she dies for telling the truth instead of showing obedience - Motives/symbols the handkerchief symbolized the love between Othello and Desdemona loss of the handkerchief as a proof of infidelity lago understands the power of one meaningful object the Willow song her mother's maid sang it after her "love was proven mad" and she "died singing it" foreshadows Desdemona's death about a woman betrayed by her lover Q3.2 Modelling the future - Science and technology Biotechnology the use of biology to develop new products, methods and organisms intended to improve health and society four main branches: medicine, agriculture, industry, environment Genetic engineering - Crispr-Cas9 altering the genetic structure of an organism by removing, replacing or adding specific DNA sequence correcting genetic defects, preventing or treating diseases, improving growth,... 1. search: a Crispr molecule finds a precise location in the target DNA 2. cut: the Crispr enzyme cuts the DNA 3. edit: the DNA sequence can be removed, replaced or added Genetically Modified Food (GM Food) food crops with altered genetic material that does not occur naturally 34 producing plants, animals or microorganisms with specific qualities + healthier food with increased nutritional value + cheaper produce with less resources + greater resistance to plant diseases or insects + increased attractiveness to consumers + enhanced flavor + cheaper prices + ability to thrive in a harsh climate + improved embryo selection + optimized chance of a successful pregnancy + lower risk of passing disorders on to the next generation + reduces the time waiting for a pregnancy + impact on psychological well-being Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) used in conduction with In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) reducing the risk of passing on inherited conditions testing an embryo for a specific genetic disorder so that only unaffected embryos are returned to the uterus - long-term effects are not clear - allergic reactions - impact on the environment and natural crops - loss of biodiversity + parents can chose characteristics + preventing genetic diseases + increase of life expectancy + allows infertile parents to have a child Designer babies humans genetically engineered through IVF - human invading in nature increase in antibiotic resistance + saving the ill siblings life + likely to be a donor match + born healthy - invasive procedure - additional time and costs - chance of embryo destruction - babies born prematurely or with low weight - unethical intervention in human nature - unexperienced technology - risks for mother and child - miscarriage - expensive; gap between rich and poor - unexpected removal of necessary genes Savior siblings children conceived through IVF and screened for compatibility with a terminally ill sibling to provide organ or cell donations - not consensual - instrumentalization of humans - violation of human rights - emotional burden - painful or life-threatening donations - question whose life is more valuable 35 Cloning creating an exact genetic replica of another cell, tissue or organism gene cloning: copying a particular gene reproductive cloning: copying an entire multicellular organism therapeutic cloning: copying embryonic stem cells + preventing the extinction of species + increase food production + children for infertile or same-sex couples + organ replacement + improving pharmaceuticals + higher quality and quantity + cheaper than traditional methods + improving the health system in developing countries Gene pharming using genetically modified animals to create medically valuable human proteins Technology + improving physical abilities + benefits for physically limited patients + possibility of immortality + superhuman strength: extreme abilities - not entirely safe process - high probability of abuse - cell mutations Transhumanism using technology to enhance human bodies beyond their physical and mental limitations - organ rejections - decrease of genetic diversity + ability to do risky tasks + assisting in daily life + improvement in medical fields + working without breaks + economic growth - not entirely secure - abuse of animals or living organisms - social and economic inequality - loss of humanity Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer technology which is concerned with making machines work in an intelligent way similar to the way that the human mind works - are transhumans still humans? - health risks and side effects - dependence on electricity creates unemployment human relying on machines - loss of humanity - lack of emotions and empathy 36 Self-driving cars autonomous cars using Al to drive without human influence + less accidents + eliminates human failure + efficient driving + mobility for everyone Electronic media using digital and electronic devices like computers, smartphones, television,... + communicating all over the world + educating yourself using the internet + fast access to endless information + flexibility at work + creative work in social media Q3.3 Gender issues Culture and gender - now and then Beauty standards throughout history - risk of cyber crime and hacking - constant surveillance (cameras, sensors) - loss of driving pleasure - who is to blame in case of an accident? - who should be rescued in an unavoidable accident? / whose life is worth more? ➤ antiquity (800 BC - 500 AC) body fat and pale skin as a symbol of wealth; muscular, athletic and masculine men > Elizabethan Era (1558-1603) reddish, long, voluminous hair; rouge cheeks and lips; young appearance strong, athletic, toned, fit, healthy - risk of hacking - cyber bullying and discrimination - addiction ➤ prehistory-1900s venus figures: round, pear-shaped, large breasts; attractiveness and fertility; corsets > 1920s-1950s slim, slender; rounded bodies; Marylin Monroe, pin up models ➤ 1960s-1970s ➤ 1990s - loss of real human contact - danger of fake news - comparison, jealousy and low self-esteem skinny through diets and exercise; no corsets ➤ 1980s skinny, diets, loss of self-confidence more skinny, fat considered unhealthy; high anorexia disorder mortality rate ➤ 2000s ► 2010s-2020s diversity presented in social media, curvy and plus-sized models in fashion, but also bad impacts of social media 37 Shakespeare - Beauty standards two dimensions: physical and spiritual beauty degrading the importance of physical beauty and vanity aging as an unavoidable process of life; transience of beauty reviving one's former beauty in the children of the next generation high value of inner beauty, honesty and kindness love and attraction beyond physical beauty standards comparison of women's beauty and nature e.g. Desdemona: beautiful mainly because of her innocence, loyalty, gentleness,... Gender in advertisements Girls / Women - pink color scheme - focus on appearance - cooperative, mindful play - soft, gentle, dependant - cleaning, cooking, household, children care, fashion,... - sexualized, objectified, inferior Boys / Men - blue color scheme - focus on function - competitive, physical play dominant, violent, independant - working, earning money, success, knowledge about technology,... - respected, strong, superior 38