Saturday, April 30, 2011

Romeo and Juliet

I think that the character most like me is probably Romeo. When I have something on the forefront of my mind I can only think about that subject. That being said I often have a lot of thoughts bouncing around in my head. It is fun for me to see how his character is developed. His lines often consist of many different thoughts, which is the way that I feel most of the time.  I also have a tendency to be overdramatic in situations that are irrelevant.  

At first glance, reading Romeo and Juliet can seem a very daunting task. Yet, after reading into it a while it becomes easier to understand. The story so far has been exciting as the characters begin to develop their personalities. The family rivalry between the Montegues and the Capulets seems to become more and more of a important role in the plot of the play. I like the fact that we read and discuss the book in class after reading it at home because I am able to pick up on even more details the second time around. I like reading for other characters as well, and I think that I understand what the characters are saying when I have to read for a certain part.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Wrapping up Great Expectations

I felt so accomplished to finish a book as difficult as Great Expectations. This book is chalked full of lessons and good messages that it is hard to pick just one, but the main theme or lesson that I think that this book taught was that money does not buy happiness. I think that this idea is relevant today as well as being true in the past. Pip and Ms. Havisham are not happy although they have plenty to spend. Some of the happiest people in the world have the least amount of stuff. Hearing this message makes a person think why? Why are the rich on average more unhappy than those who have less? My assumption is that because they are used to having so much wealth, they will never be satisfied with the "stuff" they already have. The wealthy people spend more time caring about their stuff rather than the people around them like their family and friends. People can make friendships. I've never heard of any money that have a conversation with you, or look after you, but friends and family can. Relationships with family and friends is the definition of happiness to me; not all of the money in the world could by that.