I have to apologize for my recent absence in postings on this blog. The holidays and birthday events greatly distracted me from other duties.
We had a great discussion over Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol earlier this month. I must say, I have a greater appreciation for the short story after the discussion.
Now on to The Giver by Lois Lowry and Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Interestingly enough, both of these authors are living and have sites to reference their information from, so I thought I'd share those with you (click on their names above). By reading these, I hope you can become better acquainted with the author and their writing style and influences.
We just gave one of our nephew a copy of The Giver, if that gives you a clue as to how much I have loved this book. Fahrenheit 451 was a one night read for me, so, again, I enjoyed it a lot.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Discussion
If you haven't viewed the discussion board on FB for GWBC, please do. Just because we have finished reading a specific title and have "moved on" doesn't mean we have to stop talking about it. Feel free to discuss using either FB or the blog. If I see something in the comments, I will transfer it to a blog post so everyone will have a chance to discuss and think about what other members are thinking about.
Enjoy this holiday season! Our next meeting will be on the 15th, just a little over a week away. Don't forget to read A Christmas Carol!!
I'm still searching out titles for February and March, but I think I have some good options. Stay tuned!
Enjoy this holiday season! Our next meeting will be on the 15th, just a little over a week away. Don't forget to read A Christmas Carol!!
I'm still searching out titles for February and March, but I think I have some good options. Stay tuned!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Tiny Tim
Here's a thought to ponder....how would A Christmas Carol differ had there not been a Tiny Tim character? Would Scrooge have been able to come through his catharsis without the glaring image of depravation accompanied by infirmity in Tiny Tim? Was Scrooge truly only impressed by the goodness in this character BECAUSE of the physical hardships Tiny Time endured? Or, was it only that Scrooge's own sister was similar to Tim that allows Ebenezer to once again have feelings of compassion to another human being?
What are your thoughts?
What are your thoughts?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
An Intro to Dickens
With the recent release of yet another film creation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, it is hard to deny the influence of such a work of literature and an author upon society.
Dickens was born Charles John Huffam Dickens on 7 February 1812 to John and Elizabeth Dickens. His father was a clerk in the Naval Pay Office and found himself imprisoned a couple of times for debt. The first occurrence of this happening landed the whole family in prison, minus Charles who was sent to work in a blackening warehouse at age twelve. This experience would later lead to some of his creative works and characters and influenced his life throughout, especially as a theme of social reform permeated his works.
Dickens took the pen name of "Boz" and began publishing works. These writings were released serially through periodicals and led Dickens to the creation of such parts of his novels and stories with cliffhangers that helped him create more anticipation for his audience for the next edition. A series of books issued at Christmastime began in 1843. A Christmas Carol was the first of these Christmas books and was first published the 19th of December 1843. A fan, himself, of the gothic tradition, he wrote a Christmas story with key elements from a seemingly opposing genre.
In April of 1836, Dickens married Catherine Hogarth who would become the mother of their ten children. Dickens also continued to pursue the pen in providing for his family through his own writings, being editor of different papers, and eventually establishing a theater group. This theater group later led to the separation between Dickens and wife Catherine due to a love affair with an actress by the name of Ellen Ternan.
Dickens continued to find success in his career as a novelist throughout his life, even leaving an unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood at his death. He left the world in June of 1870 due to a stroke. Although he wished to be buried in a private manner without the pomp and circumstance of the famous, he was interred in Poet's Corner of Westminster Abbey.
Dickens was born Charles John Huffam Dickens on 7 February 1812 to John and Elizabeth Dickens. His father was a clerk in the Naval Pay Office and found himself imprisoned a couple of times for debt. The first occurrence of this happening landed the whole family in prison, minus Charles who was sent to work in a blackening warehouse at age twelve. This experience would later lead to some of his creative works and characters and influenced his life throughout, especially as a theme of social reform permeated his works.
Dickens took the pen name of "Boz" and began publishing works. These writings were released serially through periodicals and led Dickens to the creation of such parts of his novels and stories with cliffhangers that helped him create more anticipation for his audience for the next edition. A series of books issued at Christmastime began in 1843. A Christmas Carol was the first of these Christmas books and was first published the 19th of December 1843. A fan, himself, of the gothic tradition, he wrote a Christmas story with key elements from a seemingly opposing genre.
In April of 1836, Dickens married Catherine Hogarth who would become the mother of their ten children. Dickens also continued to pursue the pen in providing for his family through his own writings, being editor of different papers, and eventually establishing a theater group. This theater group later led to the separation between Dickens and wife Catherine due to a love affair with an actress by the name of Ellen Ternan.
Dickens continued to find success in his career as a novelist throughout his life, even leaving an unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood at his death. He left the world in June of 1870 due to a stroke. Although he wished to be buried in a private manner without the pomp and circumstance of the famous, he was interred in Poet's Corner of Westminster Abbey.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Notes from Discussion
As a few of you were unable to attend our monthly meeting last night, I thought I would include some ideas we discussed.
First, Oscar Wilde is hilarious! The snappy comebacks and asides happening throughout the play reveal his wit and the reason for his popularity.
As close as a realism play and a comedy can come in similarity, there were many different ideas and themes found in both A Dolly's House and An Ideal Husband. One spouse losing the favor of the other, the love trysts that inevitably "save" the offending party, the blackmailers, as well as unreal and unfair expectations of character in the two marriages. Look for more details that are shared.
As for Tess, neither of the starring men are good guys. Both leave her ruined and unable to face society and family in any degree of honor or provision. There is a lot of symbolism throughout.
First, Oscar Wilde is hilarious! The snappy comebacks and asides happening throughout the play reveal his wit and the reason for his popularity.
As close as a realism play and a comedy can come in similarity, there were many different ideas and themes found in both A Dolly's House and An Ideal Husband. One spouse losing the favor of the other, the love trysts that inevitably "save" the offending party, the blackmailers, as well as unreal and unfair expectations of character in the two marriages. Look for more details that are shared.
As for Tess, neither of the starring men are good guys. Both leave her ruined and unable to face society and family in any degree of honor or provision. There is a lot of symbolism throughout.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Apologies
I have been slacking in my posting of thoughts on this month's readings. I will post from notes after tomorrow's meeting.
Don't forget! Tomorrow night at Carol's. 7pm. Don't bring your blackmailer....which, ironically could have been the "theme" of this month's selections.
Don't forget! Tomorrow night at Carol's. 7pm. Don't bring your blackmailer....which, ironically could have been the "theme" of this month's selections.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Tess and Trials
The world over, there continues to be issues revolving around the revolting incidences of rape and the way it deteriorates a woman's identity to herself as well as to those around her. Individuals such as Thomas Hardy who exposed such truths or doctors like Denis Mukwege who assist rape victims in the healing process are heroes on a battlefield that continues to be fought.
Tess, in all of her goodness, attempts to lead a good life contrary to the poor and slovenly natures exhibited by her parents. She becomes a pawn in their hands and is subjected to not only the embarrassment of "reconciling" two ends of an assumed family relation, but ultimately to the stigmas of a ruined woman.
As the novel continues, the reader is unable to escape from mourning for this young lady subjected to such trials and torments as beset her. No step in her life is easy. She fights for her existence on so many different levels yet no one is there to help her or lift her from her troubles. Even the one who should have been her guiding angel out of a life of scratching out a living and hiding a dark and loathsome past turns away from her and eventually leaves her to the wolf who thrust her into this position in the first place.
Thomas Hardy may have stirred up a nation as he depicted the rape of a woman and the ensuing complications of her life due to this deed, but he also brought to the forefront the dichotomy of sin in regards to both genders. While it was not only acceptable for a man to live a life of debauchery, he also could sire children without any repercussions. A woman, not so. Not only does her body become the bearer of the sin in obvious manners if a child is conceived, but her mind is forever marred by the occurrence. No relief is even possible for Tess as society and a man seeming to overcome social stigma rejects her because of an action she was subjected to and not an active participant.
Rape and abuse continues to pervade societies in every part of the world. Those who expose the wrongs of this are heroes to the afflicted.
Tess, in all of her goodness, attempts to lead a good life contrary to the poor and slovenly natures exhibited by her parents. She becomes a pawn in their hands and is subjected to not only the embarrassment of "reconciling" two ends of an assumed family relation, but ultimately to the stigmas of a ruined woman.
As the novel continues, the reader is unable to escape from mourning for this young lady subjected to such trials and torments as beset her. No step in her life is easy. She fights for her existence on so many different levels yet no one is there to help her or lift her from her troubles. Even the one who should have been her guiding angel out of a life of scratching out a living and hiding a dark and loathsome past turns away from her and eventually leaves her to the wolf who thrust her into this position in the first place.
Thomas Hardy may have stirred up a nation as he depicted the rape of a woman and the ensuing complications of her life due to this deed, but he also brought to the forefront the dichotomy of sin in regards to both genders. While it was not only acceptable for a man to live a life of debauchery, he also could sire children without any repercussions. A woman, not so. Not only does her body become the bearer of the sin in obvious manners if a child is conceived, but her mind is forever marred by the occurrence. No relief is even possible for Tess as society and a man seeming to overcome social stigma rejects her because of an action she was subjected to and not an active participant.
Rape and abuse continues to pervade societies in every part of the world. Those who expose the wrongs of this are heroes to the afflicted.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Season for Sensation
Taking into consideration three great writer's names, there, at first, doesn't seem to be any link between these men. However, each went through dealing with the public, society and controversy in their own ways. All three men enjoyed success of their writings within their lifetimes. Oscar Wilde and Henrik Ibsen both for their plays and Thomas Hardy for his fictional novels and poetry. Each also brought forth their observations of the inconsistencies of Victorian society and what was really going on back at home.
Wilde was wild! Born Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde in Dublin, Ireland on 16 October 1854 to a doctor and a writer, he was exposed early on to genius in many realms. He went on to study and gained his own awards for his scholarly abilities and writings. He received great acclaim for his plays and the comedic take on society, especially "An Ideal Husband." Although himself a married man and father, he was also a known homosexual. Due to a relationship with Lord Alfred Bruce Douglas, he was prosecuted for "gross indecency" and sentenced to two years hard labor. Wilde's health and popularity were affected by this trial, causing his name to be removed from authorship of his plays. Wilde left Britain after his imprisonment and remained abroad for the remainder of his life, dying in November 1900 of cerebral meningitis.
Another author born into what should have been prosperity and family was Henrik Ibsen, born Henrik Johan Ibsen in March of 1828 in Norway. However, his family suffered severe setbacks and were removed from their home early on in Ibsen's life. This dramatic change affected both of Ibsen's parents in different manners, influencing their son. In tandem with the loss of fortune, Ibsen was sent to study pharmacy as his parents' choice of profession. Due to the birth of an illegitimate child, Ibsen soon was providing for another but also seeking a way to pursue his true passion: writing. Eventually Ibsen was able to find success in this field. He married Suzannah Thoresen in 1858 and had one child with his wife. Due to some finanicing from a friend and the government, Ibsen went abroad and wrote many of his greatest plays, including "A Doll's House" (1879), which gathered controversy due to content. He eventually returned home and died of a stroke in Christiania on May 23, 1906. Ibsen's influence lived on as he is attributed with Modernism, as his plays dealt with the middle class and the psychological developments as plot drive. His works greatly influenced Anton Chekov, a Russian playwrite.
Thomas Hardy also dealt with social pressure against his novels and ultimately rejected writing more after suffering such attacks on his works. Hardy was born in England in June of 1840 and gained early experience in architecture under the instruction and influence of his own father. He was sent to be an apprentice and continued in architecture as a means of employment until his literary career took off. He married Emma Gifford in 1874 but never had any children. His writings mirrored the reality of life rather than the picturesque. Eventually, after the criticism over Tess of the D'Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure, he rejected the fictional world and only kept his pen active through poetry and playwriting. He died in January of 1928 of unknown causes. Interestingly enough, there is even controversy over his burial. He requested to be buried next to his first wife (she preceeded him in death and he later remarried). However, his request was not honored, as his body was interred in Poet's Corner and his heart buried with Emma. However, it is rumored that the housekeeper placed his heart on the kitchen table where a cat devoured it, leaving not even his heart to be placed with Emma. A pig's heart was used instead. (Truth or fiction, it isn't known.) His works influenced both D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Wolfe.
The month ahead will see discussion of married life as well as the role of women in Victorian society through the pens of these three great writers.
Wilde was wild! Born Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde in Dublin, Ireland on 16 October 1854 to a doctor and a writer, he was exposed early on to genius in many realms. He went on to study and gained his own awards for his scholarly abilities and writings. He received great acclaim for his plays and the comedic take on society, especially "An Ideal Husband." Although himself a married man and father, he was also a known homosexual. Due to a relationship with Lord Alfred Bruce Douglas, he was prosecuted for "gross indecency" and sentenced to two years hard labor. Wilde's health and popularity were affected by this trial, causing his name to be removed from authorship of his plays. Wilde left Britain after his imprisonment and remained abroad for the remainder of his life, dying in November 1900 of cerebral meningitis.
Another author born into what should have been prosperity and family was Henrik Ibsen, born Henrik Johan Ibsen in March of 1828 in Norway. However, his family suffered severe setbacks and were removed from their home early on in Ibsen's life. This dramatic change affected both of Ibsen's parents in different manners, influencing their son. In tandem with the loss of fortune, Ibsen was sent to study pharmacy as his parents' choice of profession. Due to the birth of an illegitimate child, Ibsen soon was providing for another but also seeking a way to pursue his true passion: writing. Eventually Ibsen was able to find success in this field. He married Suzannah Thoresen in 1858 and had one child with his wife. Due to some finanicing from a friend and the government, Ibsen went abroad and wrote many of his greatest plays, including "A Doll's House" (1879), which gathered controversy due to content. He eventually returned home and died of a stroke in Christiania on May 23, 1906. Ibsen's influence lived on as he is attributed with Modernism, as his plays dealt with the middle class and the psychological developments as plot drive. His works greatly influenced Anton Chekov, a Russian playwrite.
Thomas Hardy also dealt with social pressure against his novels and ultimately rejected writing more after suffering such attacks on his works. Hardy was born in England in June of 1840 and gained early experience in architecture under the instruction and influence of his own father. He was sent to be an apprentice and continued in architecture as a means of employment until his literary career took off. He married Emma Gifford in 1874 but never had any children. His writings mirrored the reality of life rather than the picturesque. Eventually, after the criticism over Tess of the D'Urbervilles and Jude the Obscure, he rejected the fictional world and only kept his pen active through poetry and playwriting. He died in January of 1928 of unknown causes. Interestingly enough, there is even controversy over his burial. He requested to be buried next to his first wife (she preceeded him in death and he later remarried). However, his request was not honored, as his body was interred in Poet's Corner and his heart buried with Emma. However, it is rumored that the housekeeper placed his heart on the kitchen table where a cat devoured it, leaving not even his heart to be placed with Emma. A pig's heart was used instead. (Truth or fiction, it isn't known.) His works influenced both D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Wolfe.
The month ahead will see discussion of married life as well as the role of women in Victorian society through the pens of these three great writers.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
On To November
Last night's discussion was great! I hope everyone gets a chance to finish reading Udolpho.
We chose the selections for our November meeting as well as December's.
November: 2 plays: Oscar Wilde's "An Ideal Husband" and Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House", as well as Tomas Hardy's novel Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
December: Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol.
We also have talked about getting together on another night to watch a film version of "An Ideal Husband." Be watching for that announcement, too!
We chose the selections for our November meeting as well as December's.
November: 2 plays: Oscar Wilde's "An Ideal Husband" and Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House", as well as Tomas Hardy's novel Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
December: Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol.
We also have talked about getting together on another night to watch a film version of "An Ideal Husband." Be watching for that announcement, too!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Tonight, Tonight....
Just a reminder that we are meeting tonight. Bring your favorite title choices to put on the book list for future selections!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Secret Meeting
Okay, so it isn't so secret and it is quite predictable...
Don't forget to put it on your calendar, but our next meeting is in less than a week! October 20th at 7:00 pm. We'll be meeting at Stefanie's house. (If you need the address or directions, leave a comment and I'll email you the info.)
Bring any friends you may have: old or young! We'll be discussing The Mysteries of Udolpho as well as choosing literature for the next three months, so even if they haven't read, it will benefit them to cast their votes.
Also, think about this so you can put your picks in the pot...
What are three of your "favorite" great works you have previously read?
What are three great works you have on your list to read in the future?
I'm hoping that this compilation of likes and interests will help us build the picking pool.
Don't forget to put it on your calendar, but our next meeting is in less than a week! October 20th at 7:00 pm. We'll be meeting at Stefanie's house. (If you need the address or directions, leave a comment and I'll email you the info.)
Bring any friends you may have: old or young! We'll be discussing The Mysteries of Udolpho as well as choosing literature for the next three months, so even if they haven't read, it will benefit them to cast their votes.
Also, think about this so you can put your picks in the pot...
What are three of your "favorite" great works you have previously read?
What are three great works you have on your list to read in the future?
I'm hoping that this compilation of likes and interests will help us build the picking pool.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Relief on the Rise
I know this book has been a big one to tackle. I apologize for the amount required this month. Don't panic about where you are. There are still two weeks before we meet.
I also wanted to alleviate any stress about the next selection. I have another novel to recommend, but I have two plays to read as an alternative to the novel. The plays (yes, two, but they are short) will enable those who aren't able to finish Udolpho to continue reading in October-November and not feel like they are being left behind.
I had it in my head that a month's reading should be maxed out at about 400 pages, give or take a few. So, the next time we tackle such a huge book, we'll split it in half and meet twice on it (we'll HAVE to do that for Tolstoy or Dostoevsky).
So, relax and enjoy what you are reading. I think the pace is pushing things a bit, but don't stress. See if you can guess what "natural" occurrences are causing the mysterious/supernatural perceptions. It'll make the reading more interesting.
I also wanted to alleviate any stress about the next selection. I have another novel to recommend, but I have two plays to read as an alternative to the novel. The plays (yes, two, but they are short) will enable those who aren't able to finish Udolpho to continue reading in October-November and not feel like they are being left behind.
I had it in my head that a month's reading should be maxed out at about 400 pages, give or take a few. So, the next time we tackle such a huge book, we'll split it in half and meet twice on it (we'll HAVE to do that for Tolstoy or Dostoevsky).
So, relax and enjoy what you are reading. I think the pace is pushing things a bit, but don't stress. See if you can guess what "natural" occurrences are causing the mysterious/supernatural perceptions. It'll make the reading more interesting.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Keep Reading!
The trials of everyone trying to obtain a copy of this book is kind of ironic in that there are such crazy obstacles and adventures within the story! You may find segments of the story to be slow, but I PROMISE, it allows her to tie everything up nicely at the end. So, keep on reading. She builds and builds and builds and then resolves. Her writing style is definitely a true and perfect exhibition of denouement!
Ann Radcliffe is flowery with her descriptions of things, yet this is influenced by other artists she admires. She makes mention of a couple of painters in her story. Looking at their works helps one understand her writing style better. (To view such pieces, search Salvator Rosa, Claude Lorraine, Gaspard Poussin, Domenico Zampieri). By viewing these paintings, you can understand more of the landscape and the mood Radcliffe invokes through her writings.
Like Dracula, there is hope, so you must journey to the "end of the rainbow" to have that satisfaction. Enjoy and keep reading!
Ann Radcliffe is flowery with her descriptions of things, yet this is influenced by other artists she admires. She makes mention of a couple of painters in her story. Looking at their works helps one understand her writing style better. (To view such pieces, search Salvator Rosa, Claude Lorraine, Gaspard Poussin, Domenico Zampieri). By viewing these paintings, you can understand more of the landscape and the mood Radcliffe invokes through her writings.
Like Dracula, there is hope, so you must journey to the "end of the rainbow" to have that satisfaction. Enjoy and keep reading!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Ann Radcliffe and the Gothic Novel
"Terror and horror are so far opposite, that the first expands the soul, and awakes the faculties to a high degree of life; the other contracts, freezes, and nearly annihilates them. I apprehend that neither Shakespeare nor Milton by their fictions, nor Mr. Burke by his reasoning, anywhere looked to positive horror as a source of the sublime, though they all agree that terror is a very high one; and there lies the great difference between horror and terror, but in uncertainty and obscurity, that accompany the first, respecting the dreader evil." -- Ann Radcliffe
Ann Radcliffe was born on July 9, 1764 in Holborn, London, England to a haberdasher, which gave her entrance into the artistic world due to those with whom her father came in contact. She married a William Radcliffe, an editor of the English Chronicle in 1788. Without children in this marriage, Ann turned to writing to fill her time. Her husband much encouraged this pastime.
Publishing two works anonymously, Ann Radcliffe found acclaim in the genre of Gothic fiction. Although many of the highly educated and upper crust of society found these tales to be nothing more than "sensational women's entertainment" it influenced great writers such as Jane Austen, Sir Walter Scott, the Bronte sisters (esp. Jane Eyre), and Edgar Allen Poe. Still, she received great public acclaim and large compensations for her following two books; The Mysteries of Udolpho (published 1794 and our next reading) making her the most popular novelist in England at the time.
The Gothic genre was, early on, an attempt to meld the fantastic found in medieval literature with the realism in contemporary literature. Dark and dilapidated castles, swooning heroines, the supernatural along with combining both physical and mental horrors captivated readers of Gothic fiction. Radcliffe developed her style in response to trying to explain the supernatural. Demonstrated in her novels is the sense that even supernatural occurrences could be traced back to natural beginnings.
Although still finding favor and audience for her literature, Ann Radcliffe stepped out of the literary scene and was believed deceased in 1816. It was even published that she had died of "terrors." However, it wasn't until 7 February 1823 that she died, probably due to respiratory problems caused by pneumonia, complicated with her asthma. Again, upon her true passing, it was published more fantastically, touting that 'she died in a state of mental desolation not to be described'.
Radcliffe's influence upon the genre popularized the concept and many others copied the style, sacrificing it to an early death due to the unimaginative imitations of such works, leaving it to be mocked and parodied in other literature including Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey.
Ann Radcliffe was born on July 9, 1764 in Holborn, London, England to a haberdasher, which gave her entrance into the artistic world due to those with whom her father came in contact. She married a William Radcliffe, an editor of the English Chronicle in 1788. Without children in this marriage, Ann turned to writing to fill her time. Her husband much encouraged this pastime.
Publishing two works anonymously, Ann Radcliffe found acclaim in the genre of Gothic fiction. Although many of the highly educated and upper crust of society found these tales to be nothing more than "sensational women's entertainment" it influenced great writers such as Jane Austen, Sir Walter Scott, the Bronte sisters (esp. Jane Eyre), and Edgar Allen Poe. Still, she received great public acclaim and large compensations for her following two books; The Mysteries of Udolpho (published 1794 and our next reading) making her the most popular novelist in England at the time.
The Gothic genre was, early on, an attempt to meld the fantastic found in medieval literature with the realism in contemporary literature. Dark and dilapidated castles, swooning heroines, the supernatural along with combining both physical and mental horrors captivated readers of Gothic fiction. Radcliffe developed her style in response to trying to explain the supernatural. Demonstrated in her novels is the sense that even supernatural occurrences could be traced back to natural beginnings.
Although still finding favor and audience for her literature, Ann Radcliffe stepped out of the literary scene and was believed deceased in 1816. It was even published that she had died of "terrors." However, it wasn't until 7 February 1823 that she died, probably due to respiratory problems caused by pneumonia, complicated with her asthma. Again, upon her true passing, it was published more fantastically, touting that 'she died in a state of mental desolation not to be described'.
Radcliffe's influence upon the genre popularized the concept and many others copied the style, sacrificing it to an early death due to the unimaginative imitations of such works, leaving it to be mocked and parodied in other literature including Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Tea Tips
Have you ever had to calculate the appropriate sum for a tip after dining out? Did you know that tips and tea go together?
Tea came into high fashion in England after King Charles II took the throne with his wife Catherine de Braganza. Both growing up in other parts of Europe conditioned them to the taste and tradition of taking tea. As time passed, consumption of the beverage increased greatly (going from 40,000 pounds to 240,000 pounds in a ten year span).
Tea was defined as either "low" (or "afternoon") tea or "high" tea. Ironically, "low" tea was held by the upper class and served around 4:00 pm. This was viewed more as a snack and consisted of only light refreshments(it should be noted that they typically only had two meals previous to this trend, dinner being held at 8:00pm). Whereas the middle and lower classes held the "high" tea at either 5 or 6 in the evening and served with a wide variety of foods. Why the difference in "height" for the teas? It was determined by the table at which teas were offered: the "low" table of a coffee table or the "high" table of the dinner table.
Interestingly enough, tea gardens came upon the scene and boxes were made to hold monetary contributions for a waiter in order to gain faster service as the kitchens were far removed from these gardens. These boxes were marked "T.I.P.S": an abbreviation for "To Insure Prompt Service."
This is just a summary of an article found at The Jane Austen Centre. Poke around through the rest of the site to find interesting tidbits of the era, including fashion and history!
I hope you will join me for a "high tea" (minus the tea) this Tuesday at 7:00pm at Amanda Hall(I know, extremely inventive, isn't it?)
Tea came into high fashion in England after King Charles II took the throne with his wife Catherine de Braganza. Both growing up in other parts of Europe conditioned them to the taste and tradition of taking tea. As time passed, consumption of the beverage increased greatly (going from 40,000 pounds to 240,000 pounds in a ten year span).
Tea was defined as either "low" (or "afternoon") tea or "high" tea. Ironically, "low" tea was held by the upper class and served around 4:00 pm. This was viewed more as a snack and consisted of only light refreshments(it should be noted that they typically only had two meals previous to this trend, dinner being held at 8:00pm). Whereas the middle and lower classes held the "high" tea at either 5 or 6 in the evening and served with a wide variety of foods. Why the difference in "height" for the teas? It was determined by the table at which teas were offered: the "low" table of a coffee table or the "high" table of the dinner table.
Interestingly enough, tea gardens came upon the scene and boxes were made to hold monetary contributions for a waiter in order to gain faster service as the kitchens were far removed from these gardens. These boxes were marked "T.I.P.S": an abbreviation for "To Insure Prompt Service."
This is just a summary of an article found at The Jane Austen Centre. Poke around through the rest of the site to find interesting tidbits of the era, including fashion and history!
I hope you will join me for a "high tea" (minus the tea) this Tuesday at 7:00pm at Amanda Hall(I know, extremely inventive, isn't it?)
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Reminder
I just wanted to remind you that our discussion night is on the 15th (3rd Tuesday of September). Send me a message if you need directions to my house.
If you have finished Persuasion, I would encourage you, if time is available, to pick up another Austen and compare/contrast it to Persuasion.
If you have finished Persuasion, I would encourage you, if time is available, to pick up another Austen and compare/contrast it to Persuasion.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Concepts to Consider
A few things to consider during your reading of Jane Austen.
The influence of the surroundings and the reflection of such upon the characters, especially Anne.
The relationship and pursuit of acceptable acquaintances among the gentry.
The role of women in society.
The purposes of a woman being "accomplished".
Austen's perception of a good marriage match.
Flat and round characters within the novel and their influence in the plot.
The influence of the surroundings and the reflection of such upon the characters, especially Anne.
The relationship and pursuit of acceptable acquaintances among the gentry.
The role of women in society.
The purposes of a woman being "accomplished".
Austen's perception of a good marriage match.
Flat and round characters within the novel and their influence in the plot.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Book Selection List
I thought it would be important for everyone to have access to the list we are pulling titles from. You will find a complete list of "approved" books through BYU's Honor's Program.
Other requirements are books that are short enough to complete in one month (two months, maximum) as well as being accessible within the public library system and/or purchase through book stores or online.
I have checked several of these titles with a specific website. If anyone is interested in purchasing books with me, a $50 order (shared) has free shipping, which leaves the books at nearly half the cost of books currently found at a local bookstore. If you are interested in this, we will be making a list of the books for the next year at the first discussion meeting held in September.
Other requirements are books that are short enough to complete in one month (two months, maximum) as well as being accessible within the public library system and/or purchase through book stores or online.
I have checked several of these titles with a specific website. If anyone is interested in purchasing books with me, a $50 order (shared) has free shipping, which leaves the books at nearly half the cost of books currently found at a local bookstore. If you are interested in this, we will be making a list of the books for the next year at the first discussion meeting held in September.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Knowing an Author's Influences
There are so many different approaches to understanding a piece of literature. One such way is to become familiar with those texts with which an author enjoyed. While this is not always apparent and available, Jane Austen often finds herself alluding to other works while composing her own.
Being human, an individual goes about the world coming into contact with so many various people and influences. As this occurs, the individual invariably comes away with a portion of new understanding due to this interaction. If an artist attempted to convey this on canvas, she might paint a more understandable visual using a collage of different items/ideas/people with which portions become attached to a central figure.
I see this in myself in my word patterns after spending large amounts of time with any given individual or after submerging myself in a particular novel. It is inescapable for me, yet neither is it desirable to not be influenced as I choose good things and people by which to be influenced.
Even in this thought, the entirety of the plot of Jane Austen's Persuasion is set. The characters are persuaded through their encounters with others to create their opinions and further their influences. It is only by the end of the novel that the heroine rises above strictly being persuaded and influenced to make good and justly decisions on her own. Anne ultimately recognizes in herself the ability to make good judgments and to be happy with the outcome and consequences of such.
Being human, an individual goes about the world coming into contact with so many various people and influences. As this occurs, the individual invariably comes away with a portion of new understanding due to this interaction. If an artist attempted to convey this on canvas, she might paint a more understandable visual using a collage of different items/ideas/people with which portions become attached to a central figure.
I see this in myself in my word patterns after spending large amounts of time with any given individual or after submerging myself in a particular novel. It is inescapable for me, yet neither is it desirable to not be influenced as I choose good things and people by which to be influenced.
Even in this thought, the entirety of the plot of Jane Austen's Persuasion is set. The characters are persuaded through their encounters with others to create their opinions and further their influences. It is only by the end of the novel that the heroine rises above strictly being persuaded and influenced to make good and justly decisions on her own. Anne ultimately recognizes in herself the ability to make good judgments and to be happy with the outcome and consequences of such.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
First Selection
The first selection for the book club is Jane Austen's Persuasion.
Persuasion was published posthumously by her brother Henry. She was not fully confident in her writing and found herself plaguing the texts to perfection before allowing them to be published, leaving this, Northanger Abbey and Love and Friendship to find publication after she left this earth. She grew up in a religious family; her father being the Rector through her childhood and into adulthood. She lived with her family throughout, and was never married herself.
While Jane Austen struggled through an illness that eventually took her life, she completed this final book. Persuasion is about a woman who has jilted her love and through the course of devastating family circumstances, is faced to encounter him years later and confront her feelings for him and he for her.
Enjoy this reading this month! We will be meeting 15 Sept 09 to discuss our perceptions and insights into this novel.
Persuasion was published posthumously by her brother Henry. She was not fully confident in her writing and found herself plaguing the texts to perfection before allowing them to be published, leaving this, Northanger Abbey and Love and Friendship to find publication after she left this earth. She grew up in a religious family; her father being the Rector through her childhood and into adulthood. She lived with her family throughout, and was never married herself.
While Jane Austen struggled through an illness that eventually took her life, she completed this final book. Persuasion is about a woman who has jilted her love and through the course of devastating family circumstances, is faced to encounter him years later and confront her feelings for him and he for her.
Enjoy this reading this month! We will be meeting 15 Sept 09 to discuss our perceptions and insights into this novel.
To Begin
Great Works Book Club
“Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” (D&C 88:118)
Purpose: To enlighten the minds of readers through the reading and discussion of great works.
Members: Those women who choose to participate on any level of commitment, as this will be an on-going club. It is acknowledged that certain times of the year may be difficult to meet, however meetings will continue to be held throughout. Advance notice will be given if there is a change to the schedule in order to avoid conflicts with such events that may deter the majority from being in attendance.
There are no dues or fees of any kind.
Text: The definition of a “great work” is a text which has endured the test of time as well as remaining pertinent to the human condition. No current best-seller’s listed books will be viewed as consideration for participation. Consideration will be given to the selection of each text, largely drawn from recommendations from the Church universities to avoid unsuitable and/or offensive material.
Goals: To read one text per month. Some texts, due to the length or level of writing may require more than the allotted month’s reading. A mid-point will be decided and will be the amount of the text discussed at that month’s meeting.
To meet once per month to discuss the text and gain insight to the way we view the world as well as the way our peers might perceive it.
To help build personal libraries if finances are available and the individual has the desire to purchase each text.
Meetings: Held once per month for one hour to discuss the text and socialize with other members. Meetings must begin promptly at the appointed time to ensure enough time for the discussion. Those arriving late will quietly join the group and freely participate.
The meeting place will rotate through those homes of participates who so desire to invite members into their home to discuss. It is recommended that these homes also be welcoming to women who would like to come but must bring their children with them. Children visiting during these times will remain in another portion of the home to play but must remain respectful of the toys and home they are in, the mother being solely responsible for the child.
Discussion: Those reading the text are encouraged to form opinions upon what they are reading. Historical, social, scientific, economical and other influences upon the work will be brought up and discussed when and if possible. Members should respect each other’s differing opinions and thoughts about each text as reader response is largely the way individuals personalize the reading of literature.
“Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” (D&C 88:118)
Purpose: To enlighten the minds of readers through the reading and discussion of great works.
Members: Those women who choose to participate on any level of commitment, as this will be an on-going club. It is acknowledged that certain times of the year may be difficult to meet, however meetings will continue to be held throughout. Advance notice will be given if there is a change to the schedule in order to avoid conflicts with such events that may deter the majority from being in attendance.
There are no dues or fees of any kind.
Text: The definition of a “great work” is a text which has endured the test of time as well as remaining pertinent to the human condition. No current best-seller’s listed books will be viewed as consideration for participation. Consideration will be given to the selection of each text, largely drawn from recommendations from the Church universities to avoid unsuitable and/or offensive material.
Goals: To read one text per month. Some texts, due to the length or level of writing may require more than the allotted month’s reading. A mid-point will be decided and will be the amount of the text discussed at that month’s meeting.
To meet once per month to discuss the text and gain insight to the way we view the world as well as the way our peers might perceive it.
To help build personal libraries if finances are available and the individual has the desire to purchase each text.
Meetings: Held once per month for one hour to discuss the text and socialize with other members. Meetings must begin promptly at the appointed time to ensure enough time for the discussion. Those arriving late will quietly join the group and freely participate.
The meeting place will rotate through those homes of participates who so desire to invite members into their home to discuss. It is recommended that these homes also be welcoming to women who would like to come but must bring their children with them. Children visiting during these times will remain in another portion of the home to play but must remain respectful of the toys and home they are in, the mother being solely responsible for the child.
Discussion: Those reading the text are encouraged to form opinions upon what they are reading. Historical, social, scientific, economical and other influences upon the work will be brought up and discussed when and if possible. Members should respect each other’s differing opinions and thoughts about each text as reader response is largely the way individuals personalize the reading of literature.
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