Animal Imagery in the Novel McTeague essays

Animal Imagery in the Novel McTeague essays The novel McTeague by Frank Norris emphasizes the very basic idea of greed and the animalistic effects that greed produces in the human race. The central characters of the novel come together in San Francisco during the Gold Rush Period. The novel revolves around a character known as McTeague, or affectionately known as Mac, an apprenticed dentist, and the movement his life takes. The novel begins with the young McTeague working in a mine and transcends through his life as a professional, his marriage, and his eventual death. Frank Norris narrator portrays the characters of the novel McTeague as animals masquerading in human clothing. The characters are a direct representation of the reprehensible side of humanity that lingers beneath the surface, waiting for the opportune time to shed its skin and manifest itself. Throughout the novel, the characters repeatedly battle their inner desire to break free from their human skin and be the true animal that Norris metaphorically portrays them to be. However, it is important to note that the real animals of the world continue to lead their lives far superior than their human counterparts. Animals seem to be above the pettiness that we humans engage in. They display honorable actions that escape the human species. The confrontation of the two dogs in the street and the cat, which runs away from the crime scene, go to confirm this declaration. The unvarying description of McTeague as being large in stature suggests that his character is animalistic and primitive. Norris portrayal of Mac as a king of beasts can be seen in the repetition of his insistent mumbling and grunts, and by the profession in which he works, one which causes considerable pain to his clients. He is very instinctual and cannot control his large body; he is only capable of performing monotonous tasks. His transformation begins during the treatment of his patient Trina. Mac, for the first time, ba...

Social Classes

Social Classes Introduction Social classes within communities are mostly as a result of differences in major areas of life for example the level of education, the amount of wealth or income one earns and the position that one holds in the society among other factors.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Social Classes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In any given society, it is common to find the upper class, the upper middle class, the lower middle class, the working class and the poor. This paper will explore the topic of class and will specifically seek to prove that it is possible for one to achieve their dreams in life regardless of the social class that they belong to. Summary of the articles How class affects one’s education The relationship between class and education can be evident in the article by Leonhardt and Scott (p 8), who observe that the number of students who belong to the upper class in around 250 colleges has significantly risen compared to that of students from the lower class income. This has led to some colleges looking for intervention measures that will favor the lower income earners. This is because; they have noticed that a lot of talent is being lost because of the inability by the students from lower income families to access education. Leonhardt (p 1) further gives an example of how class can affect ones education using Andy Blevins, who decides to quit college in order to continue working. His decision is motivated by his poor background. He is an example of the many young people who decide to quit school and prefer to work because of their class. How class affects health care Leonhardt and Scottt (p 8) state that there is an observable difference between one class and another in terms of health care. The upper class is better placed in accessing health care and consequently has a higher life expectancy compared to the middle and the lower classes. On the other hand, the midd le class is better off compared to the lower class, which is the worst hit in the area of health care and hence, a lower life expectancy compared to the other classes. How class affects marriage In terms of marriage, Leonhardt and Scottt (p 8) say that class determines the choice of the place where one lives and the people who one associates with. Those in the high class tend to have their children at a time in their life when they are stable financially and also due to the delay in getting married, they are able to have fewer children. Children from the upper class therefore have more privileges in life compared to their counterparts in the lower and middle classes. Some of the effects of class on marriages are shown through the lives of Mr. Croteau and Ms Woolner. Married and from two extremes in terms of their classes, they try very hard to reconcile their differences to build up a stable family. Their differences are so pronounced until they are evident even to their children (L ewin p 4).Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Determination and motivation regardless of one’s class The story of James in the book ‘The Color of Water by James McBride’ is a perfect illustration of how one can succeed in life against all odds. James goes through a series of difficulties in life for example, the death of his biological father and also his step father, a background whereby the mother was abused by her father and also the race of his mother. He turns to drugs to escape from reality but later reforms and is able to have great achievements in life, which is also a source of joy to the mother (SparkNotes p1). The story of Mr. Croteau and Ms Woolner is also one of determination and how it can help one overcome every barrier and achieve what one desires. In their marriage, they have to overcome insurmountable odds in order for it to succeed, the class difference being the greatest. By the end of the story, they are still together and have a guiding philosophy that they must press on regardless of their obstacles. Conclusion Although class plays a significant role in the kind of life that one leads, it should not be seen as if one has to remain in one class forever. With determination and motivation, one can achieve anything, including moving up from a lower class to upper class. Leonhardt, David. The College Dropout Boom. New York: New York Times, 2005 Lewin, Tamar. When Richer Weds Poorer, Money Isnt the Only Difference. New York: New York Times, 2005 Scott, Janny and Leonhardt, David. Shadowy Lines That Still Divide. New York: New York Times, 2005 SparkNotes. The color of water: plot overview. SparkNotes LLC. 2011. Web.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Social Classes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More

Trends in Selection Methods Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Trends in Selection Methods - Assignment Example Also, the process of selection creates a base for practicing adequate employee motivational strategies. When the abilities and personal traits of the candidates for a job are assessed, the goal is not just to identify the individuals that can rightly do the job, but it is actually about choosing candidates that would actually accept to work when offered to and would tend to develop a long term relationship with the company, beneficial both for the employee and the organization. Thus, selection should ensure retention which means â€Å"the existence of an ongoing employee relationship† (Huang, Lin and Chuang, 2005). There is a certain cost associated with the process of selection, which goes into the training of the very personnel that are given the responsibility if recruiting employees for an organization, so that they may perform their duty adequately. However, the added cost is balanced by the increased retention that surfaces as a result of right selection of employees. â €Å"It is widely acknowledged that traditional selection interviews are unreliable predictors of which candidates are likely to be successful performers.† Rational practices: â€Å"Best practice† and â€Å"best fit† are two of the most fundamental and rational employee selection practices. The â€Å"best practice† is a perspective that emphasizes that many HR policies that also include the system of reward motivate the employees to work hard, while the â€Å"best fit† requires the managers to align the rewards with the strategic goals of the organization so that it may gain competitive advantage in the market (Morris and Maloney, n.d., p. 2). Many organizations do not make use of these practices and hence the performance of employees declines. There is dire need to take care of these matters along with making the selection procedure more reliable so that the difference between the expected and observed performance of the employees can be minimized. Analysis of interview as a selection tool: Although use of interview as a selection tool has been subjected to a lot of controversies in conventional recruitment practices, yet its efficiency as an assessment tool can not be denied. Particularly for the jobs in which assessment of an individual’s verbal and social skills are a critical factor, interview does the job efficiently. It helps the interviewer to make a sharp judgment not only of the candidate’s quickness of response, but also his/her fluency in the language demanded. In addition to estimating the candidate’s job related knowledge, the interviewer may also retrieve any supplementary information he/she may deem important in the context of a particular job. Likewise, the candidate may also ask the interviewing staff any questions that are influential upon his/her decision to join the organization. Hence, an interview is quite flexible in its structure and can be modified as required in an attempt to dra w the best conclusions both for the interviewers and the candidate. Sometimes, the interviewer is able to improve the process of interview for the rest after having conducted it with the first candidate. Because of its open nature, existing staff interviewing a candidate face-to-face may well assess if he/she can adjust in the very culture of an organization. This reduces the verisimilitude of interpersonal conflicts in the organization after the candidate is hired. In addition to that, selection through interview is a cost effective process. However,

To what extent does inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) alleviate Essay

To what extent does inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) alleviate poverty in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) - Essay Example Although SSA has relatively poor economic conditions, FDI inflows has significantly risen from $5 billion to $18 billion in the year 1995 to 2005 respectively (World Bank, 2003, p.92). The FDI inflows have played significant roles in the SSA economy because it has contributed to increased world trade, which has also contributed major changes including increases in employment opportunities and economic growth. This is relevant as they are among the key determinants for poverty alleviation in the SSA economy. Many Sub-Saharan countries including Angola, Uganda, Niger and Botswana, among others, have significantly benefited from FDI inflows - many of these countries have increased their GDP per capita performance. Although poverty is still a major problem in most of the SSA countries, many of them have highly benefited from inward FDI flows; thus reducing poverty levels. Effects of Inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) In SSA Economy Positive Effects FDI flow has played significant rol es of contributing to increased technology advancement, access to new technologies, the creation of new knowledge and the transfer of existing foreign technology (Asiedu, 2006, p. 65). One of the positive effects is the increased use of technology; that has enabled the developing nations improve productivity and innovative commodities, which are of high demand in the global market. It is less costly to learn to utilise existing technology than generating a new one; thus developing nations have the potential of growing at a faster rate. However, the convergence prospective is restricted on the level of human capital in the state. This is especially labour force quality, accumulated experience, knowledge and economic ability to create new ideas. Besides, progress in education system and human capital are fundamental for adaptingoverseastechnological know-how; thus generating sustainable long-run fiscalexpansion.The significant vehicle for international technology transfer is FDI; thus multinational companies undertake significant part in controlling most of the global advanced technology. For instance, when a multinational company sets up a foreign affiliate, the associates receive some amount of proprietary technology. This may constitute the parent’s firm particular advantage, which enables the company to compete favourablywith other local industries, which have superior knowledge of consumer preferences, local markets and business practices. Therefore, this contributes to geographical diffusion of technology; thus contributing to increased technology advancement. Secondly, FDI has contributed to increased domestic employment opportunities as a result of the development of new industries, which require labour to reach its maximum potential and goal. The construction of new companies in a country is believed to improve economic welfare and the living standards of people, through the creation of domestic employment opportunities.Many scholars have attempt ed to address the way FDI plays significant and key elements in the global economy. Anyanwu (2012, p.425) argues that FDI is the

The Death Of Ivan Ilych Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Death Of Ivan Ilych - Essay Example It appears that Tolstoy’s main point in writing this story was to illustrate the concept of death. Death is usually portrayed as a very mysterious and frightening aspect of life. However within The Death of Ivan Ilynch, Tolstoy shows death in a different light. In the first chapter, Tolstoy really captures how utterly mundane death is, especially for those left behind. This is shown in the reaction of Ivan’s coworkers. For example, as soon as Fedor Vasilievich hears about Ivan’s death, he starts to think about the possibility of being promoted as Ivan’s spot in the court has now opened up(Tolstoy, 1886). Additionally, many of the men, particularly Peter Ivanovich feel a bit irritated or put out at the thought that they are now obligated to go pay their condolences to Ivan’s wife and family(Tolstoy, 1886). At the house, a man named Schwartz even communicates with Peter about an upcoming game of bridge at Fedor Vasilievich’s house(Tolstoy, 1886 ). This entire chapter illustrates how death can become a rather mundane event, and, even if someone is no longer living, the lives of other people continue on. In addition to addressing the mundane aspects of death, Tolstoy also looks at how drawn out illness and death can be. For much of the story, Ivan is battling a mysterious illness, and every doctor he visits appears to have a different opinion as to what it could be(Tolstoy, 1886). Eventually the illness becomes so severe and painful that Ivan is unable to live his life in a normal fashion and must be given powerful drugs like morphine in order to stave off the pain(Tolstoy, 1886). The medication does little to help him; however and Ivan becomes unable to care for himself at all. This period lasts quite a while in the story. At the end of his life, he screams for three days as the pain becomes too great(Tolstoy, 1886). Finally, he is able to die. Ivan’s death presents a more accurate take on the expiration of a human.

Analysis On Strategies Used To Facilitate Workplace Learning Nursing Essay

Analysis On Strategies Used To Facilitate Workplace Learning Nursing Essay The aim of this assignment is to reflect on and analyse, strategies used to facilitate learning with a newly qualified member of staff in the authors working environment. The new member of staff will be referred to as the student during this assignment. This paper will show how one particular teaching session relates to theories of learning. Reflection has been defined by Taylor ( 2000 ) as : The throwing back of thoughts and memories, in cognitive acts such as thinking, contemplation, meditation and any other form of attentive consideration, in order to make sense of them, and so make contextually appropriate changes if required. However, the definitions from Boyd Fales (1983) and Dewey (1996), who considers that it is purposeful activity in thinking about an experience, through which learning takes place. Boyd and Fales focus more on self development. Here reflection does not only add to our knowledge but challenges the concepts and theories we hold. Furthermore as a result we dont see more, we see differently. The reflective process is at least to some degree conscious, but may not be verbalized. The author also, believes and agrees with John (2004), that reflection is often triggered by feelings and greatly influences decision making. This emphasises the importance of reflection in practice. The English National Board (ENB) and the Department of Health (DOH) 2001 defined a mentor as: denoting the role of the nurse, midwife or health visitor who facilitates learning and supervises and assesses students in practice setting would seem to be the most appropriate one to use. DOH (2001) identified that mentors need to possess a wide range of skills and to undergo a more dynamic Candidate Number 2350818 preparation in order to equip students for their working life in todays modernised, demanding National Health Services (NHS). Although this is the definition that exemplify the entirety of the mentoring role. The author feels this definition gives a somewhat rigid approach to being a mentor and find agreeable to the definition by Morton-Cooper and Palmer (2000) who states A mentor is someone who provides an enabling relationship that facilitates anothers personal growth towards competent practice and high standard making the learning experience an enjoyable and mentally fulfilling. This definition encompasses the emotional and personal part of the relationship, whether positive or negative, which the author feels is of the greatest possible degree of importance for a beneficial learning experience for both the learner and the mentor. In Intensive Care Unit (ICU), all new members of staff must have completed four weeks of supernumerary period to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to safely look after a critically ill patient. In planning to teach my student, The author need to accomplish three important aims as discussed by Wong et al, (1998); Conway and McMillan, (2000); cited in Jackson and Mannix (2001) p270, provide student with the opportunity to develop their clinical skills; Integrate theory and practice; and, assist their socialization into nursing. Prior to undertaking teaching of the student, the author ensured that the student had set realistic goals and clear learning objectives and also, encouraged to question things that were not clear or difficult to understand. After much consideration based on the students learning needs, it was reciprocally agreed that the skill of zeroing of CVP and Arterial line would be one of the essential skills taught in ICU. (Appendix II) The learner expressed the need to learn this particular skills, and Rogers (1996) views that learning is accomplished when a person feel a need, makes effort to meet that need, and feels satisfaction with the result of his effort. The student appeared keen to learn, and Hinchcliff (2001), views motivation as the major factor that encourages students to learn, and Oliver and Endersby (1994), see motivation as one of the most basic conditions for learning. Motivation is heavily influenced by need, and Gross (2005) believes Candidate Number 2350818 that how the motives underpinning behaviour are interpreted, depend upon the position of the work of a theorist or psychologist. Maslow (1970), while theorising human need, recognised that only when the needs lower down in the hierarchy are satisfied, the higher need will be met. The Intensive Care Unit is often very busy and stressful, and within the role of educator the author was very aware that the learner needed time away from the unit to wind down, as she could be very easily become over tired. On reflection, this connects with the evaluation process of Gibbs reflective cycle, in ascertaining what was good about the experience. The ICU has its own staff lounge away from the unit where tea and coffee is provided. Frequent breaks, comfortable chairs, a television, and availability of refreshments are what Rogers, cited in Downie (2003) views as necessary for providing human comfort and resulting in meeting physiological needs. Maslows theory made a significant contribution of humanist thinking and the self actualization. The learning outcomes developed from our discussion wer e for the student to; Increase knowledge of zeroing CVP/Arterial Lines; Prepare resources and equipment correctly with minimal prompting or assistance; carrying out the procedure using aseptic technique, efficiently and record the nursing procedure in the care plan or patient record. (Appendix III) In order to do this, the author needed to look at the nature of the learning process. It is therefore crucial when setting out to undertake a mentoring role that there is an understanding of the way the adults learn. Learning can be defined formally as the act, process, or experience of gaining knowledge or skills Conner, (1997). Facilitation of learning is defined by the Royal College of Nursing, RCN as a well-planned learning opportunity with the provision to coach and support students RCN, (2002). This is supported by the Department of Health DOH, which adds that facilitation of learning allows students to develop opportunities to identify experiences that meet their learning needs DOH, (2001). Facilitation of adult learning is described by Banning (cited on Warren 2010) as the ideas and theories that are accredited to prior experiences which need to be complemented by interaction and adult-orientated strategies. A successful mentor is able to transform previous experiences via Candidate Number 2350818 experimental learning, enabling the student to make sense and learn from the experiences gained. However, facilitating student learning is not always easy in practice. Garrison et al (2004) remind us that while teaching the nursing leaders of the future, we do so in chaotic setting which is, in effect, an unhelpful learning environment. More recently, Swinny and Brady (cited on Warren 2010) found that, on a ward setting, mentors have difficulty finding time to teach because of the busy and demanding nature of clinical environment. An understanding of some theories is helpful to a mentor as it provides them with an opportunity to examine their own beliefs and assumptions about people, knowledge, motivation, environment, assessment and other factors necessary with learning Nicklin and Kenworthy, (2000). Learning help us move from novice to expert and allow us to gain new knowledge and ability. Benner, (1984). These theories provide framework for studying the processes associated with learning. Learning theories of behaviourism, cognitivism and humanism have attempted to provide explanation about learning that applies to people in general. In order to see the full potential in learning, knowledge of such theories are crucial to the success of the individual learner. Behaviourism argues that nearly all behaviour is learned. It is based on what is referred to as stimulus /response learning and originates with the Russian psychologist, Pavlovs work with the dogs whereby he linked one stimulus meat powder to a seco nd stimulus, the sound of a bell. This produced a salivation response and ultimately the dogs would salivate at the sound of the bell even in the absence of the meat powder. This experimentation produced Pavlovs theory of Classical Conditioning McKenna, (1995). The social learning theory developed by Albert Bandura could be useful within the affective areas of nursing in as much as the mentor behaves in ways he wants the learner to imitate, as a role modelling Knowles, (1990). He stressed the importance of modelling other behaviours, which is known as observational learning cited by Bahn, (2001). Because it encompasses attention, memory and motivation, social learning theory spans both cognitive and behavioural frameworks. Drawing upon humanistic psychology and behaviourism, Malcolm Knowles contributed to the art and science Candidate Number 2350818 of teaching adults, otherwise known as andragogy. This is in direct contrast to pedagogy which literally means a leader of children. Knowles bases his approach on his own observations on the differences between teaching adults and children. He argues that traditional education methods, with their emphasis on the teacher do not prepare the learner with the facility for lifelong learning. Knowles however does acknowledge that andragogy and pedagogy can work together, that could both be relevant for children and adult subject to circumstances and provided that the overall approach is andragogical. Pedagogical methods may be suitable is when new concept are being introduced to students Quinn, (2000). A day was planned in advance when the teaching would take place. The author had met on several occasions with the student therefore an introduction had been made. The author felt that effective communication is essential to facilitate learning, therefore adapted a friendly and approachable manner. (Appendix II) This view is supported by McKimm, J. (2007) who believes the learner is able to express their views and make errors when a sociable atmosphere is set and maintained. McKimm, J. (2007) also discusses the concept of teaching by humiliation and the author is very aware from past experience, of the negative effect of power relations, and so becoming more sensitive to the needs of the student. As a good example, the student had seen the procedure of zeroing the CVP line, carried out previously as a part of the daily routine with the mentor/author but had neither performed it nor understood the relevance of it. The author therefore decided that a written instruction for priming and zeroing of arterial/CVP line would be produced explaining why we zero the transducer and a detailed guide how to do the procedure. (Appendix III) While reflecting, this manifest aspect of learning period, and fits in with the evaluation phase of Gibbs reflective cycle (1988). Conversely, a negative experience was perceived during the evaluation phase of reflection when unfortunately the day set for the teaching session to take place was discontinued as the unit became very busy, involuntarily the author to asked for change of shift for a convenient day for the student. Subsequently the teaching session was Candidate Number 2350818 varied for the following day, which caused a huge amount of stress and anxiety as the student was psychologically prepared for the teaching to take place on that set day, not the next. The concept of stress and anxiety is a key psychological factor that influences teaching Quinn, (2000), and is a displeasing emotion occurring when threat or harm is anticipated, and results in generalised increased change of state. Individuals have a best level of change of state, under- change level of state results in a decreased level of learning performance and over-change of state an increased level of learning performance. Gross (2005) views that a complete absence of stress can be harmful, when humans are so relaxed they do not see a harmful situation developing, and a moderate amount of stress maintains alertness, providing energy requited to maintain interest and explore our environment. Therefore, stress is extremely detrimental when humans become stretched beyond their limit Gross, (2005). To complete the teaching session the student was given the opportunity to feed back and reflect on her learning experience. It seems that she felt the teaching session to be very helpful on her daily routine assessment and build her confidence. This has allowed the author to be productive in achieving personal goals set out in the learning contract (Appendix I ) and expects mentoring in the forthcoming. In conclusion, the author has gained an insight through reflection into the many different learning theories and strategies for learning that exist to aid in his forthcoming student. A surroundings that is beneficial, sociable and accommodating for learning. The improvement of knowledge and skills, sharing teaching and learning, and reflecting upon them both privately and with other mentors can embrace the personal and professional growth that one day all students will achieve. I I

Dulce et Decorum Est Essays -- Comparative, Owen, Cummings

Wilfred Owen’s â€Å"Dulce et Decorum Est† and E. E Cummings’, â€Å"next to of course god america i† are poems that critique patriotic propaganda. Both poems use words and images to effectively depict the influence that patriotic propaganda has on war. â€Å"Dulce et Decorum Est† uses descriptive words to create realistic images of the horrors soldiers are faced with during combat, whereas â€Å"next to of course god america i† uses sarcasm to inform readers that the abuse of propaganda can be used to manipulate others. The attitudes they convey are quite similar; both suggest that propaganda is a lie; it is not sweet and fitting to die for one’s country. It is ingrained in soldier’s minds that to die for ones country is a great and honourable sacrifice. However, in the poem Dulce et Decorum Est the speaker uses powerful words and images to portray that patriotic propaganda is an â€Å"old lie† (Owen 27). In the first stanza, the speaker explains the effects that war has on young soldiers: â€Å"Bent double, like old beggars under sacks/ Knock- Kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge† (Owen 1-2). Propaganda portrays soldiers as being young heroes, those who are strong, healthy and vigorous. However, based on the evidence expressed in the previous quotation soldiers are not all what propaganda portrays them to be. The speaker chooses words such as â€Å"bent double, like old baggers† and â€Å"knock-kneed† (Owens 1-2) to expose the discomfort and effects that war has on young soldiers. The soldiers are discreetly compared to crippled old men which emphasizes just how badly war has affected their bodies, stripping them of their health, making them weak and helpless like â€Å"old beggars† (Owen 1). Furthermore, the speaker expresses his experience as a sold... ...upport of patriotic propaganda. The speaker may be worried because of the fear of what he is saying will cause him to being labelled as unpatriotic. Cumming could have incorporated this line into the poem to enforce personal beliefs and protect national pride. Both poems would agree that patriotic propaganda is a method used to alter nation’s values and ideas. Although both poems differ in the portrayal of the patriotic message they both criticize the affects of propaganda. For those who believe that it is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country, any man who has experienced war first hand would admit that patriotic propaganda is a lie. It would be interesting to further analyze the poems and consider how historical usage of propaganda and modern media by politicians compare, as well as to analyse if propaganda today is still using and abusing patriotism.