Category 4:
How much time out side of class do you think a new student should expect to spend on their assignment?
-In the beginning about an hour and a half a week there is alot of work to keep up with.
- In the end 2 or more hours a week because of the 15 page paper
Was this course easy or hard?
-This course was challenging there was always alot of homework and reading to be done. It was time consuming, and you needed to stay caught up.
Category 6:
What did you learn from taking this course?
-How to blog, podcast, use a computer better, and how to structure our writing.
What do we hope for next years students?
-cut down one book, so much reading!
-slow down reading and homework
-make 10-15 page paper
-stay caught up with work, it is so easy to fall behind!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Monday, December 3, 2007
Monday, November 26, 2007
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Saturday, November 17, 2007
HW 35: Finally the end
Dear Blog Readers,
In the blog class I have learned new ways to present your opinions. Ive learned from reviewing others opinions that it is not always black or white. There are so many ways to view a situation and voice your opinion that will still be respectful to others. This is important to know as you grow up and have to deal with situations that relate to voicing opinions in an appropriate way. I have also learned a new form of communication. I did not really know that much about blogging or even what it really meant. Now I know exactly what it is, and now I can do it well. I hope that from my blogs, readers will understand how I think better. Like I said before there is not always a black or a white. There is always an in between. I feel best about my blog posts regarding Riverbend. Her book Baghdad Burning is an eye opener and so interesting. I really was shocked by the her story. I'm glad that I now know the whole story and not just what I'm being told through the media. I'm not sure if I would keep blogging. I don't really know what I would blog about. For these blogs I had actual topics. I don't think I'll delete my blog because Ive worked so hard on my posts. I will most likely keep them up, but not add to it. This was a hard course. I learned from it, but there was so much work!
In the blog class I have learned new ways to present your opinions. Ive learned from reviewing others opinions that it is not always black or white. There are so many ways to view a situation and voice your opinion that will still be respectful to others. This is important to know as you grow up and have to deal with situations that relate to voicing opinions in an appropriate way. I have also learned a new form of communication. I did not really know that much about blogging or even what it really meant. Now I know exactly what it is, and now I can do it well. I hope that from my blogs, readers will understand how I think better. Like I said before there is not always a black or a white. There is always an in between. I feel best about my blog posts regarding Riverbend. Her book Baghdad Burning is an eye opener and so interesting. I really was shocked by the her story. I'm glad that I now know the whole story and not just what I'm being told through the media. I'm not sure if I would keep blogging. I don't really know what I would blog about. For these blogs I had actual topics. I don't think I'll delete my blog because Ive worked so hard on my posts. I will most likely keep them up, but not add to it. This was a hard course. I learned from it, but there was so much work!
HW 34: Gold and Evening Tea
Response to:
1. What is the role of gold in family savings in Iraq?
2. Describe the custom of evening tea in Iraq.
Gold is part of the Iraqi culture. It does not display wealth like it does in most cases. Gold is also a form of money it symbolizes "family savings" (Riverbend p.100). Gold values money. Since the money situation was fluctuating it was difficult for people to have it. They started converting their gold jewelery (bracelets,necklaces,earrings) into money (p.100). The word for gold that is used is, "zeeneh ou 7 azzeeneh khazeeneh" this means ornaments and savings (p.100). Gold is still used as jewelry and is still worn to be shown off, but can also be sold for money. Now that the troops are occupying Iraq they sometimes take the gold from the Iraqis with no substantial reasons. Also, when Iraqis marry gold is used as a dowry. Gold is important in Iraqi society it has more uses that we do for it. Iraqis also have a daily tea time that is a cultural ritual. This tea time happens in the evening. It is an informal gathering. Tea gatherings are a must they happen regardless of what is going on. Tea bags are not used for this type of tea. If you give an Iraqi a tea bag it is looked at as an insult. "It speaks of complete lack of a appreciation for the valuable beverage"(p. 108). There is a 3 step process to making tea. " First, a kettle of water is put on the burner to boil. Next, the boiling water and a certain amount of tea leaves are combined in a separate tea pot and put on a low burner just until the tea leaves rise to the top and threaten to boil over.Finally, the teapot is set on top of the tea kettle on a low burner and allowed to 'yihder' or settle"(p.108-109). This is a long process to do everyday.There are also many different types of tea that Iraqis can chose from. Iraqi tea is flavored with cardamon and served in istakans. Istakans are the glasses they drink out of (p.109). This is a time for Iraqi families to get together during the day and have the opportunity to spend time together.
1. What is the role of gold in family savings in Iraq?
2. Describe the custom of evening tea in Iraq.
Gold is part of the Iraqi culture. It does not display wealth like it does in most cases. Gold is also a form of money it symbolizes "family savings" (Riverbend p.100). Gold values money. Since the money situation was fluctuating it was difficult for people to have it. They started converting their gold jewelery (bracelets,necklaces,earrings) into money (p.100). The word for gold that is used is, "zeeneh ou 7 azzeeneh khazeeneh" this means ornaments and savings (p.100). Gold is still used as jewelry and is still worn to be shown off, but can also be sold for money. Now that the troops are occupying Iraq they sometimes take the gold from the Iraqis with no substantial reasons. Also, when Iraqis marry gold is used as a dowry. Gold is important in Iraqi society it has more uses that we do for it. Iraqis also have a daily tea time that is a cultural ritual. This tea time happens in the evening. It is an informal gathering. Tea gatherings are a must they happen regardless of what is going on. Tea bags are not used for this type of tea. If you give an Iraqi a tea bag it is looked at as an insult. "It speaks of complete lack of a appreciation for the valuable beverage"(p. 108). There is a 3 step process to making tea. " First, a kettle of water is put on the burner to boil. Next, the boiling water and a certain amount of tea leaves are combined in a separate tea pot and put on a low burner just until the tea leaves rise to the top and threaten to boil over.Finally, the teapot is set on top of the tea kettle on a low burner and allowed to 'yihder' or settle"(p.108-109). This is a long process to do everyday.There are also many different types of tea that Iraqis can chose from. Iraqi tea is flavored with cardamon and served in istakans. Istakans are the glasses they drink out of (p.109). This is a time for Iraqi families to get together during the day and have the opportunity to spend time together.
HW 33: Eye Opener
Response to Podcast.
The podcast I chose to respond to was "Iraqi Teens Work to Help Their Families." This is part of the series Alive in Baghdad. This was published October 15th, 2007. If you are interested in the blog the link is:http://aliveinbaghdad.org/2007/10/15/iraqi-teens-work-to-help-their-families. The general topic of this podcast was the obstacles that Iraqi teens are facing. 50 percent of Iraqis are jobless. The war in Iraq has left many families in poverty. They are struggling to keep their families functioning. This is forcing teens to join their families in the work force. Working in Iraq is dangerous in this period of time. The route to some jobs are unsafe. Their is a possibility that they could be killed on their way to work. One person in detail is Mustafa Malek Fathulla Ali. Mustafa is in the 6th grade and currently works in carpentry. This is extremely young to be working in a major business. In the U.S. you cant even get a job until 14, and that's if you want to work in a grocery store. Most places wont even hire you unless you are between the ages of 16 and 18. Mustafa has been working with his father for a while now. He describes that the security situation is not good. Iraq has very unsafe working conditions. The best way I can describe this podcast is dark. Everything looks really dry and desert like. The interior of the buildings looks like a normal house to me. Maybe not like my house, but every house in different cultures are different. A viewer might have a better understanding of what is actually going on in Iraq. Not just the war, and the casualties, and American statistics but also the problems that Iraqis are facing on a day to day basis. Their lives are hard and it is important for Americans to recognize this fact. I found the fact that Mustafa is in a business such as carpentering at such a young age shocking. That does not happen in this country. Its so surprising to hear of children working so hard. They shouldn't have to experience that yet. It seems like he doesn't even have a chance to be a normal teenager.
The podcast I chose to respond to was "Iraqi Teens Work to Help Their Families." This is part of the series Alive in Baghdad. This was published October 15th, 2007. If you are interested in the blog the link is:http://aliveinbaghdad.org/2007/10/15/iraqi-teens-work-to-help-their-families. The general topic of this podcast was the obstacles that Iraqi teens are facing. 50 percent of Iraqis are jobless. The war in Iraq has left many families in poverty. They are struggling to keep their families functioning. This is forcing teens to join their families in the work force. Working in Iraq is dangerous in this period of time. The route to some jobs are unsafe. Their is a possibility that they could be killed on their way to work. One person in detail is Mustafa Malek Fathulla Ali. Mustafa is in the 6th grade and currently works in carpentry. This is extremely young to be working in a major business. In the U.S. you cant even get a job until 14, and that's if you want to work in a grocery store. Most places wont even hire you unless you are between the ages of 16 and 18. Mustafa has been working with his father for a while now. He describes that the security situation is not good. Iraq has very unsafe working conditions. The best way I can describe this podcast is dark. Everything looks really dry and desert like. The interior of the buildings looks like a normal house to me. Maybe not like my house, but every house in different cultures are different. A viewer might have a better understanding of what is actually going on in Iraq. Not just the war, and the casualties, and American statistics but also the problems that Iraqis are facing on a day to day basis. Their lives are hard and it is important for Americans to recognize this fact. I found the fact that Mustafa is in a business such as carpentering at such a young age shocking. That does not happen in this country. Its so surprising to hear of children working so hard. They shouldn't have to experience that yet. It seems like he doesn't even have a chance to be a normal teenager.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
HW 32:
Response to Baghdad Burning (70-97):
On September 21st 2003, there was an attempted murder on Akila Al-Hashimi. Riverbend describes Akila as "one of the decent members on council (Riverbend 75). Akila worked extensively with foreign affairs. From my perspective she seemed to be a well-respected woman in Iraq. It is sad to think that woman who work so hard o defend their country is injured in the process. "Two pick-up trucks with armed men cut off her car and opened fire on her and her bodyguards-her brothers"(Riverbend 75). When this woman and her brothers went under attack, neighbors came to her aide. The two sides began shooting at each other. Akila was wounded in the foot, shoulder, and stomach, she taken to a hospital called Al-Yarmuk (Riverbend 75). There Akila's stomach was operated on. After that she was shipped off in an American ambulance. Riverbend stated that no one really knew where this woman was being sent to. I have to admit I'm confused. She is obviously innocent, and working towards the benefit for Iraq and it's people. Some claimed that this was still the work of Saddam followed out by his loyalists. Apparently, Akila was not respected by all. "There has been bitterness towards her by some of the more extreme members of the governing council- not only is she female, wears no hijab, and was the first actual 'foreign representative" of the new government , but she was also a prominent part of the former government"(Riverbend 76). Akila seemed like a well-established woman, who had earned her title and the respect she deserves.
On September 21st 2003, there was an attempted murder on Akila Al-Hashimi. Riverbend describes Akila as "one of the decent members on council (Riverbend 75). Akila worked extensively with foreign affairs. From my perspective she seemed to be a well-respected woman in Iraq. It is sad to think that woman who work so hard o defend their country is injured in the process. "Two pick-up trucks with armed men cut off her car and opened fire on her and her bodyguards-her brothers"(Riverbend 75). When this woman and her brothers went under attack, neighbors came to her aide. The two sides began shooting at each other. Akila was wounded in the foot, shoulder, and stomach, she taken to a hospital called Al-Yarmuk (Riverbend 75). There Akila's stomach was operated on. After that she was shipped off in an American ambulance. Riverbend stated that no one really knew where this woman was being sent to. I have to admit I'm confused. She is obviously innocent, and working towards the benefit for Iraq and it's people. Some claimed that this was still the work of Saddam followed out by his loyalists. Apparently, Akila was not respected by all. "There has been bitterness towards her by some of the more extreme members of the governing council- not only is she female, wears no hijab, and was the first actual 'foreign representative" of the new government , but she was also a prominent part of the former government"(Riverbend 76). Akila seemed like a well-established woman, who had earned her title and the respect she deserves.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
HW 31:Al Hakim
In Response to Riverbend:
Riverbend refers to Al Hakim a few times in her blogs. He was an Iraqi leader who was assasinated during the war. Al Hakim was the Iraqi leader of SIIC, the largest political party in the council of Iraqi representatives. Hakim served as president in December 2003. Hakim met with President Bush he made a commitment to help end violence. Hakim is involved in the Shia party. (Wikipedia pg.1). Riverbend makes several references to him during the assigned reading. When Hakim was assassinated she was worried about the after effects. "Al Hakim's assassination is very significant, youre right. It will be used as an excuse for vendettas, faction fighting, and more violence, between Shi'a and Shi'a and Sunnis and Shi'a. Already his followers are swearing to avenge his death and I shudder to think of the next group of victims. It is extremley frightening to think of what the consequences of this will be"(Riverbend pg.43) Hakim was a very important figurehead in Iraq especially during the war. However, Im very confused when it comes to this man. Riverbend states that he is assinated, and then wikipedia states in one paragraph that he was assinated, in the end they said he wasnt. Im mainly just going from Riverbend's references. Apparently he was important during this time period and his murder was a threat accordning to Riverbend.
Sources Cited:
Riverbend, Baghdad Burning, Girl Blog from Iraq. Published by the Feminist Press, New York, New York 2005.
Wikipedia "Abdul Aziz al-Hakim" page 1
Riverbend refers to Al Hakim a few times in her blogs. He was an Iraqi leader who was assasinated during the war. Al Hakim was the Iraqi leader of SIIC, the largest political party in the council of Iraqi representatives. Hakim served as president in December 2003. Hakim met with President Bush he made a commitment to help end violence. Hakim is involved in the Shia party. (Wikipedia pg.1). Riverbend makes several references to him during the assigned reading. When Hakim was assassinated she was worried about the after effects. "Al Hakim's assassination is very significant, youre right. It will be used as an excuse for vendettas, faction fighting, and more violence, between Shi'a and Shi'a and Sunnis and Shi'a. Already his followers are swearing to avenge his death and I shudder to think of the next group of victims. It is extremley frightening to think of what the consequences of this will be"(Riverbend pg.43) Hakim was a very important figurehead in Iraq especially during the war. However, Im very confused when it comes to this man. Riverbend states that he is assinated, and then wikipedia states in one paragraph that he was assinated, in the end they said he wasnt. Im mainly just going from Riverbend's references. Apparently he was important during this time period and his murder was a threat accordning to Riverbend.
Sources Cited:
Riverbend, Baghdad Burning, Girl Blog from Iraq. Published by the Feminist Press, New York, New York 2005.
Wikipedia "Abdul Aziz al-Hakim" page 1
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
HW 30: What Kind of Democracy do we want?
On Tuesday November 6th I attended the Citizenship Symposium. This symposium was titled "What kind of Democracy do we want?" This was part of the KSC symposium. The symposium started out with the KSC Provost explaining that in recent years college students at Keene State College have been showing an increase interest in politics, and our government. This particular election has started early, and has gotten more involvement and attention than any other election in the past (According to the Provost). He then introduced the mayor, Michael Blastos. He presented KSC with a plaque announcing today November 6th as citizenship day here at the college. The guest speaker, Nancy Tobi presented us with a slide "Citizens Gone Wild." She gave a vivid description of her ancestor Moses. "Moses was a poor humble refugee who did not get to see the fruits of his labor." I found this to be a good description. I interpreted this as, each and every person can make a difference. Even if it takes years to actually see your efforts taking place, you've made a difference in homebody's life. To me, that is worth it. I found the slide about Election Crime to be very interesting. An election crime, affects the well-being of the entire planet. That is a HUGE crime to break. Think how many people you are affecting. Basically, the solution to this is controlling the counts of the votes this way the motive is to control the planet. I enjoyed her quote 'Politicians are like diapers; they need to be changed, and for the same reasons." I thought that was exactly true. How could you have the same politician for more than 8 years? Sometimes 4 is just too long. I enjoyed how passionate she way about her slide show and I think it must have taken a lot of effort to present that to us.
Added 11/17
I also attended the Symposium on November 8th. This one was titled Citizenship and Responsibility. The first to speak was Katrina Sweat. She introduced her father the guest speaker Tom Lantos. Tom was the only survivor of the Holocaust to serve in the U.S. congress. Tom was originally from Hungry. In 1980 Tom decided to run for congress. In 2006 he was elected chairman of the house for foreign affairs committee. Tom touched alot on foreign affairs. Tom had recently spoke to the President of France he quoted him quite frequently throughout his speech. The main point of his speech was Immigrants are just as much citizens as American-borne citizens. They too feel patriotic about their country. I agree with him on this, there was a reason they decided to come here. A vivid description that Tom made was "America did not teach men the idea of freedom, she taught them how to practice it", this was said by the president of France. This is very true you can believe in freedom but it is the act of practicing freedom that makes it count. A quote that I found to be accurate was his expectations for the next American president. As most know the issues we are having in our country today are quite controversial regarding President Bush. Lantos said "There will be two responsibilities for the next president
1. to bring the country together
2. The laborious job of rebuilding the prestige status and respect of the United States."
This is exactly right. We have lost some respect. We are a strong nation and we should be able to gain our respect back from other countries. The new president will have his or her work cut out for them.
Added 11/17
I also attended the Symposium on November 8th. This one was titled Citizenship and Responsibility. The first to speak was Katrina Sweat. She introduced her father the guest speaker Tom Lantos. Tom was the only survivor of the Holocaust to serve in the U.S. congress. Tom was originally from Hungry. In 1980 Tom decided to run for congress. In 2006 he was elected chairman of the house for foreign affairs committee. Tom touched alot on foreign affairs. Tom had recently spoke to the President of France he quoted him quite frequently throughout his speech. The main point of his speech was Immigrants are just as much citizens as American-borne citizens. They too feel patriotic about their country. I agree with him on this, there was a reason they decided to come here. A vivid description that Tom made was "America did not teach men the idea of freedom, she taught them how to practice it", this was said by the president of France. This is very true you can believe in freedom but it is the act of practicing freedom that makes it count. A quote that I found to be accurate was his expectations for the next American president. As most know the issues we are having in our country today are quite controversial regarding President Bush. Lantos said "There will be two responsibilities for the next president
1. to bring the country together
2. The laborious job of rebuilding the prestige status and respect of the United States."
This is exactly right. We have lost some respect. We are a strong nation and we should be able to gain our respect back from other countries. The new president will have his or her work cut out for them.
Monday, November 5, 2007
HW 28: A letter to Riverbend
Dear Riverbend
I would like to thank you for writing this book and opening my eyes to what is really going on in Iraq. What is the point of this war? It has now lost its meaning, even though now so many have lost their lives. The situation in Iraq needs to be straightened out because it is causing devastation in not one but two parts of the world. First off I would like to say how much I respect you for not hating our troops. It takes an intelligent young women to realize that these men do not want to be there, they all have families of their own. She knows that not all American troops are bad. Although I have to say It scares me to know that our U.S. troops are actually hurting, killing, and torturing innocent people. It is so hard to hear things of that nature. I felt like they were incapable of that. It really bothers me to think that this is actually happening. We don't see/ hear these negative stories that these people are living, and I want to thank you again for letting me now be aware of these occurrences. As a young women I'm interested in your struggles in trying to maintain the status that you deserve. Although I can not completely identify with you I can sympathize and tell you not to give up in your abilities. I also want to let you know how intelligent I find you to be. You are so accepting of different cultures, relgions and even Americans. I give you credit for this. Especially with what is going on in your country now you are still recognizing that each country has their own beliefs. Your book is so interesting and is really opening my eyes to what is going on around me and in your country.
I would like to thank you for writing this book and opening my eyes to what is really going on in Iraq. What is the point of this war? It has now lost its meaning, even though now so many have lost their lives. The situation in Iraq needs to be straightened out because it is causing devastation in not one but two parts of the world. First off I would like to say how much I respect you for not hating our troops. It takes an intelligent young women to realize that these men do not want to be there, they all have families of their own. She knows that not all American troops are bad. Although I have to say It scares me to know that our U.S. troops are actually hurting, killing, and torturing innocent people. It is so hard to hear things of that nature. I felt like they were incapable of that. It really bothers me to think that this is actually happening. We don't see/ hear these negative stories that these people are living, and I want to thank you again for letting me now be aware of these occurrences. As a young women I'm interested in your struggles in trying to maintain the status that you deserve. Although I can not completely identify with you I can sympathize and tell you not to give up in your abilities. I also want to let you know how intelligent I find you to be. You are so accepting of different cultures, relgions and even Americans. I give you credit for this. Especially with what is going on in your country now you are still recognizing that each country has their own beliefs. Your book is so interesting and is really opening my eyes to what is going on around me and in your country.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
HW 27: New Insights
Response to Riverbend's Baghdad Burning
Riverbend, Baghdad Burning, Girl Blog from Iraq First Feminist Press Edition, 2005
Ahdaf Soueif, Foreword copyright 005
James Ridgeway Introduction copyright 2005
This book is very intriguing. The world today is full of stereotypes of different ethnicities Americans (and I’m not speaking for everyone) have many negative views about the country of Iraq, and the people that live there. Innocent or part of the problem, if you’re Iraqi you must not be a good person. This book teaches you differently. Just from reading the first 15 pages or so I feel like I have a different view on Americanism and the country of Iraq. Are the really as bad as we make them out to be? How can you not sympathize with Riverbend? She is criticized by people she doesn’t even know thousand and thousands of miles away. This blog book was written by Riverbend. She seems like an amazing blogger, who can really capture you’re interest. This book was written to give, Americans and others from countries around the world a real account of the war in Iraq. Riverbend is trying to get across the popular message “you think you know but you have no idea.” How could you ever say you know what is going on in Iraq? Unless you were in the military and actually stationed over there or an Iraqi citizen and watching your country be pulverized. From reading this book, I feel I will learn to ignore stereotypes about Iraqis and their country. I feel that I can still have respect and support for my own country and the troops that work very hard to defend it. Also keeping in mind that I do not need to have negative feelings toward Iraq. This book could benefit me because I could have an inside view of what did happen there and how a young women felt about the war, and the crisis that did arise. The challenges for me I believe will be the hatred toward the American soldiers. It is hard for me to feel that way (even identify with someone who feels that way) about someone who is risking their own life to protect me and my family. I can never think negatively towards someone who would do that much for me and the others that I care about. This book is going to be an amazing read. I recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the war in Iraq, and get a first hand account from someone who is actually living it.
Riverbend, Baghdad Burning, Girl Blog from Iraq First Feminist Press Edition, 2005
Ahdaf Soueif, Foreword copyright 005
James Ridgeway Introduction copyright 2005
This book is very intriguing. The world today is full of stereotypes of different ethnicities Americans (and I’m not speaking for everyone) have many negative views about the country of Iraq, and the people that live there. Innocent or part of the problem, if you’re Iraqi you must not be a good person. This book teaches you differently. Just from reading the first 15 pages or so I feel like I have a different view on Americanism and the country of Iraq. Are the really as bad as we make them out to be? How can you not sympathize with Riverbend? She is criticized by people she doesn’t even know thousand and thousands of miles away. This blog book was written by Riverbend. She seems like an amazing blogger, who can really capture you’re interest. This book was written to give, Americans and others from countries around the world a real account of the war in Iraq. Riverbend is trying to get across the popular message “you think you know but you have no idea.” How could you ever say you know what is going on in Iraq? Unless you were in the military and actually stationed over there or an Iraqi citizen and watching your country be pulverized. From reading this book, I feel I will learn to ignore stereotypes about Iraqis and their country. I feel that I can still have respect and support for my own country and the troops that work very hard to defend it. Also keeping in mind that I do not need to have negative feelings toward Iraq. This book could benefit me because I could have an inside view of what did happen there and how a young women felt about the war, and the crisis that did arise. The challenges for me I believe will be the hatred toward the American soldiers. It is hard for me to feel that way (even identify with someone who feels that way) about someone who is risking their own life to protect me and my family. I can never think negatively towards someone who would do that much for me and the others that I care about. This book is going to be an amazing read. I recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the war in Iraq, and get a first hand account from someone who is actually living it.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
HW 26: Different ideas
Response to Baghdad Burning:
The foreword of this book is written by Adhafi Soueif. The foreword has a very powerful message hidden within the summary. Soueif opens with saying that no one outside of the country in Iraq can truly identify with what is happening in their country. Others comments have no real meaning, they are not experiencing what is really happening. He describes Riverbend as an amazing author. The people who read this book should be privileged to know the closest account to the war in Iraq (Soueif pg. vii) Soueif made an extremely powerful quote in his forward. “Why does America identify itself with its military government? Why does being anti-Bush and anti-occupation have to mean that a person is anti-American? We watch American movies, listen to everything from Britney Spears to Nirvana and refer to every brown fizzy drink as ‘Pepsi’” (Soueif pg.viii) This quote really made me think. Living in today’s world, (and I know I can speak for many people on this) there is so many negative views on the country of Iraq. This quote made me question myself and others. Why? The people of Iraq do not create our opinions. It was one person. How can one man change how we view a whole country? Sometime I wonder why American people (including myself) think the way that we do. Soueif also states how at first Iraqis felt sorry for the U.S. military, how they knew that it wasn’t their choice to be there. “Even the invading troops were once seen as deserving of human sympathy: On May 7th, 2004, fourteen months into the invasion, Riverbend writes: ‘There was a time when people here felt sorry for the troops. No matter what one’s attitude was to the occupation, there were moments of pity towards the troops, regardless of their nationality. We would see them suffering under the Iraqi sun, obviously wishing they were somewhere else and somehow that vulnerability made them seem less monstrous and more human.” (Soueif pg viii) Throughout the rest of the foreword Soueif describes what a terrific account this book gives of the Iraqi war and the Iraqi peoples reactions. The Introduction is written by James Ridgeway. Riverbend’s blog is simply called ‘Girl Blog from Iraq”. This title really gives no information as to what will be written in the blog. Riverbend’s blog has many readers, and from what I gather seems to be extremely interesting and provoking. Her blog has nothing to do with the troops and where they are stationed. The war is not something that Riverbend can turn off at night when the news is over, “war is something that is lived every day-and every night.”(Ridgeway pg.xi) Ridgeway describes how intrigued her readers are, and how personal her blogs become. Iraq is such a dangerous war zone at this time that nothing is 100% safe. When Riverbend leaves her home her fans become quite concerned with her safety. “Whenever Riverbend and her family travel out of the neighborhood to a family gathering, you travel with her as she describes every turn her car takes, the tension as it rounds a corner, hoping that there is not an American tank in the street. If she does not write for several days, maybe a week or more, you fear the worst-a bomb strike, a tank raid, imprisonment.”(Ridgeway pg.xii) When Ridgeway was describing the fear that they had for American soldiers it kind of upset me. This whole time I thought they feared Iraqis or “battles” (for lack of a better word) on the streets. Do Americans really do this to innocent passersby? It is so hard to view American soldiers in a negative way. I have always been taught to have so much respect for them, because I feel that they do so much for our country. The rest of the Introduction is a recap of the history of American and Iraqi turmoil. I’m really looking forward to reading this book. I feel it will solve some of the stereotypes that I have learned to feel.
The foreword of this book is written by Adhafi Soueif. The foreword has a very powerful message hidden within the summary. Soueif opens with saying that no one outside of the country in Iraq can truly identify with what is happening in their country. Others comments have no real meaning, they are not experiencing what is really happening. He describes Riverbend as an amazing author. The people who read this book should be privileged to know the closest account to the war in Iraq (Soueif pg. vii) Soueif made an extremely powerful quote in his forward. “Why does America identify itself with its military government? Why does being anti-Bush and anti-occupation have to mean that a person is anti-American? We watch American movies, listen to everything from Britney Spears to Nirvana and refer to every brown fizzy drink as ‘Pepsi’” (Soueif pg.viii) This quote really made me think. Living in today’s world, (and I know I can speak for many people on this) there is so many negative views on the country of Iraq. This quote made me question myself and others. Why? The people of Iraq do not create our opinions. It was one person. How can one man change how we view a whole country? Sometime I wonder why American people (including myself) think the way that we do. Soueif also states how at first Iraqis felt sorry for the U.S. military, how they knew that it wasn’t their choice to be there. “Even the invading troops were once seen as deserving of human sympathy: On May 7th, 2004, fourteen months into the invasion, Riverbend writes: ‘There was a time when people here felt sorry for the troops. No matter what one’s attitude was to the occupation, there were moments of pity towards the troops, regardless of their nationality. We would see them suffering under the Iraqi sun, obviously wishing they were somewhere else and somehow that vulnerability made them seem less monstrous and more human.” (Soueif pg viii) Throughout the rest of the foreword Soueif describes what a terrific account this book gives of the Iraqi war and the Iraqi peoples reactions. The Introduction is written by James Ridgeway. Riverbend’s blog is simply called ‘Girl Blog from Iraq”. This title really gives no information as to what will be written in the blog. Riverbend’s blog has many readers, and from what I gather seems to be extremely interesting and provoking. Her blog has nothing to do with the troops and where they are stationed. The war is not something that Riverbend can turn off at night when the news is over, “war is something that is lived every day-and every night.”(Ridgeway pg.xi) Ridgeway describes how intrigued her readers are, and how personal her blogs become. Iraq is such a dangerous war zone at this time that nothing is 100% safe. When Riverbend leaves her home her fans become quite concerned with her safety. “Whenever Riverbend and her family travel out of the neighborhood to a family gathering, you travel with her as she describes every turn her car takes, the tension as it rounds a corner, hoping that there is not an American tank in the street. If she does not write for several days, maybe a week or more, you fear the worst-a bomb strike, a tank raid, imprisonment.”(Ridgeway pg.xii) When Ridgeway was describing the fear that they had for American soldiers it kind of upset me. This whole time I thought they feared Iraqis or “battles” (for lack of a better word) on the streets. Do Americans really do this to innocent passersby? It is so hard to view American soldiers in a negative way. I have always been taught to have so much respect for them, because I feel that they do so much for our country. The rest of the Introduction is a recap of the history of American and Iraqi turmoil. I’m really looking forward to reading this book. I feel it will solve some of the stereotypes that I have learned to feel.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
HW 24: A Place to Work
Response to chapters 5 and 6 of Virginia Woolf:
Do I have a room of my own?
The answer to this question is yes. In my room I have a choice. Most of Woolf's book is about women not having a choice. In chapter 5 Mary expresses that when she has a room of her own that is when she will succeed. This is what will give her, her big break for becoming a poet. A room of your own is your place of reflection. When I need time to reflect and think and just not talk to anyone. I use the gym as my safe haven. This is where I can do things to benefit my self without having to deal with anything from the outside world. I think that is what Woolf is describing as a room of her own. In the real world there are so many distractions that it is so impossible to just think. Everyone needs time to think. The gym allows me to do that for as long as I want. The gym also allows me to not think. Which is just as important as reflection sometimes you just need to give your mind a rest. The best quote that I can associate with my break from thinking, was Woolf's wandering thoughts. "But, alas, I had done what I had determined not to do; I had slipped unthinkingly into praise of my own sex. " (Woolf pg.85) I could not find a quote that expressed greater association as to what I perceived a room of my own to be. Everyone needs a place where they can simply just hide. "I am talking of the common life which is the real life and not the separate lives which we live as individuals -and have five hundred a year each of us and rooms of our own;if w have the habit of freedom and the courage to write exactly what we think;if we escape a little from the common sitting room and see human beings not always in their relationships to each other but in relation to reality."(Woolf pg.113-114) This quote really made me think. We as human beings both man and women have the right to think whatever we want. Wherever we want as well. I deciphered this quote as taking a break from thinking about the troubles of life, and just think.
Do I have a room of my own?
The answer to this question is yes. In my room I have a choice. Most of Woolf's book is about women not having a choice. In chapter 5 Mary expresses that when she has a room of her own that is when she will succeed. This is what will give her, her big break for becoming a poet. A room of your own is your place of reflection. When I need time to reflect and think and just not talk to anyone. I use the gym as my safe haven. This is where I can do things to benefit my self without having to deal with anything from the outside world. I think that is what Woolf is describing as a room of her own. In the real world there are so many distractions that it is so impossible to just think. Everyone needs time to think. The gym allows me to do that for as long as I want. The gym also allows me to not think. Which is just as important as reflection sometimes you just need to give your mind a rest. The best quote that I can associate with my break from thinking, was Woolf's wandering thoughts. "But, alas, I had done what I had determined not to do; I had slipped unthinkingly into praise of my own sex. " (Woolf pg.85) I could not find a quote that expressed greater association as to what I perceived a room of my own to be. Everyone needs a place where they can simply just hide. "I am talking of the common life which is the real life and not the separate lives which we live as individuals -and have five hundred a year each of us and rooms of our own;if w have the habit of freedom and the courage to write exactly what we think;if we escape a little from the common sitting room and see human beings not always in their relationships to each other but in relation to reality."(Woolf pg.113-114) This quote really made me think. We as human beings both man and women have the right to think whatever we want. Wherever we want as well. I deciphered this quote as taking a break from thinking about the troubles of life, and just think.
Monday, October 22, 2007
HW23: "With apologies to Virginia Woolf"
In Chapter three of A Room of one's own, I noticed that Woolf talked of arranged marriages more than once. I decided to take the headline of Jezebel Hells Bells:Return of the British Bridezilla
http://jezebel.com/gossip/hells-bells/return-of-the-british-bridezillas-313638.php
paragraph cited(Woolf pg.42)
Response as Virgina Woolf:
I could hardly believe my astonishment when I read this article. Women actually having the right to choose their husbands! It's about time! The right of a woman should be to have her future in her complete control. The days are long gone of when woman will be forced to spend the rest of her days with a complete idiot. Woman should have the full right to pursue what they want in their weddings. Weddings should involve excitement for the future not fear. A high point in this article for me was the admiration a groom held for his bride. A woman should be praised. No one has the right to take someone for granted. More importantly someone that they are expected to spend the rest of their lives with (if they are to last that long.) Finally marriage can be a ceremony of affection. There is no evidence of a business deal, or an exchange of family names purely from status. There is no longer practices of betrothal which leads a woman to live a life that she does not desire. Marriage is a choice that should be made because of love, and respect for an individual, not to raise your social stature. I'm pleased to say that this is a step to a society that resembles equality. By giving a woman the right to pick her mate you are allowing her to become whatever she likes and to mold her own future. Marriage should be sacred and by giving a woman full priority over the situation allows her to become more of an individual.
http://jezebel.com/gossip/hells-bells/return-of-the-british-bridezillas-313638.php
paragraph cited(Woolf pg.42)
Response as Virgina Woolf:
I could hardly believe my astonishment when I read this article. Women actually having the right to choose their husbands! It's about time! The right of a woman should be to have her future in her complete control. The days are long gone of when woman will be forced to spend the rest of her days with a complete idiot. Woman should have the full right to pursue what they want in their weddings. Weddings should involve excitement for the future not fear. A high point in this article for me was the admiration a groom held for his bride. A woman should be praised. No one has the right to take someone for granted. More importantly someone that they are expected to spend the rest of their lives with (if they are to last that long.) Finally marriage can be a ceremony of affection. There is no evidence of a business deal, or an exchange of family names purely from status. There is no longer practices of betrothal which leads a woman to live a life that she does not desire. Marriage is a choice that should be made because of love, and respect for an individual, not to raise your social stature. I'm pleased to say that this is a step to a society that resembles equality. By giving a woman the right to pick her mate you are allowing her to become whatever she likes and to mold her own future. Marriage should be sacred and by giving a woman full priority over the situation allows her to become more of an individual.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
HW22:Who decides?
For homework 22 I chose to do the patriarchy option. Woolf admits her feelings towards the English society very clearly in chapter two. I felt that she strongly believed that she lived in a patriarchal society. "England is under a rule of a patriarchy. Nobody in their senses could fail to detect the dominance of the professor." (Woolf pg. 33) Woolf is symbolizing a male as the professor in this category, which broadens her anger to all males. Woolf wonders why men get all the glory in her society why are they the primary role in all affairs? "His was the power and the money and the influence. He was the proprietor of the paper and its editor and sub-editor. He was the foreign secretary and the judge. He was the cricketer; he owned the racehorses and the yachts. He was the director of the company that pays two hundred percent to its shareholders. He left millions to charities and colleges that were ruled by himself. He will decide if the hair on the meat axe is human; he it is who will acquit or convict the murderer and hang him, or let him go free. With the exception of the fog he seemed to control everything"(Woolf pg.34) I deciphered this paragraph as Woolf completely bashing males of all kind. Her contempt toward all men is demonstrated in full force. Woolf wants so badly to be considered just as equal as all men and have just an equal role in society as they do. After reading a variety of articles on the Boston globe's web page I have to admit that I'm surprised at my conclusion. We do appear to still live in a patriarchal society. Not to any extremes as it used to be, but that type of society is still lingering. The globe appeared to have many sports stories. Such as of course the Red Sox and Patriots. Both these sports have only male players, and coaches. In my opinion that could give off the illusion that our society is dominated by males. Also, the political stories mostly involve males. There were cover stories that did involve women but a male was closely linked behind. This was surprising to me, I was under the impression that we lived in a more balanced society. I was surprised to find that it is still not a 50, 50 situation.
Monday, October 15, 2007
HW 21: Dear Nick
Dear Nicholas,
let me start off by saying I feel bad for you or anyone that has to read this book. This book is unbelievably boring. How anyone can sit and read this book all the way through without falling asleep is a mystery to me. If anyone can succeed in doing this they deserve a medal. In the first chapter the narrator is introduced (I believe she said that her name was Mary, but that part wasn't exactly clear to me.) Mary is a college student living in England. The chapter starts off with Mary contemplating the connection between women and fiction. She thoroughly contemplates how the two involve each other. Her strongest first statement is, "A Woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction."(p.4) Pay attention to this statement. This is her opinion on the subject matter. The narrator also believes that both women and fiction are "unsolved problems" (p.4) During the chapter Mary attends an important luncheon at the University. At this luncheon a guest hums a song under his breath. One that depicts women a certain way during the war. Apparently this song does not depict women in a positive way. Mary begins quoting famous women poets that support her feelings against the song. Know this. This gives me and should give you the impression that Mary is a strong willed woman and strongly believes in not distinguishing a woman's distinct place or "role" in society. Mary then retreats back to her own thoughts. Deciding what she herself should write about, each of her thoughts lead her on different tangents. These tangents are extremely difficult to follow, so pay close attention.I feel as if I should be able to tell you more. I'm having a hard time summarizing the book myself. As hard as this book may be to read it is a significant piece of literature. In my opinion this book is distinguishing women writers and making room for them in a male society. It is important to see how their writings do effect opinions today on female writers. Hang in there and keep reading!
Kate
let me start off by saying I feel bad for you or anyone that has to read this book. This book is unbelievably boring. How anyone can sit and read this book all the way through without falling asleep is a mystery to me. If anyone can succeed in doing this they deserve a medal. In the first chapter the narrator is introduced (I believe she said that her name was Mary, but that part wasn't exactly clear to me.) Mary is a college student living in England. The chapter starts off with Mary contemplating the connection between women and fiction. She thoroughly contemplates how the two involve each other. Her strongest first statement is, "A Woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction."(p.4) Pay attention to this statement. This is her opinion on the subject matter. The narrator also believes that both women and fiction are "unsolved problems" (p.4) During the chapter Mary attends an important luncheon at the University. At this luncheon a guest hums a song under his breath. One that depicts women a certain way during the war. Apparently this song does not depict women in a positive way. Mary begins quoting famous women poets that support her feelings against the song. Know this. This gives me and should give you the impression that Mary is a strong willed woman and strongly believes in not distinguishing a woman's distinct place or "role" in society. Mary then retreats back to her own thoughts. Deciding what she herself should write about, each of her thoughts lead her on different tangents. These tangents are extremely difficult to follow, so pay close attention.I feel as if I should be able to tell you more. I'm having a hard time summarizing the book myself. As hard as this book may be to read it is a significant piece of literature. In my opinion this book is distinguishing women writers and making room for them in a male society. It is important to see how their writings do effect opinions today on female writers. Hang in there and keep reading!
Kate
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
HW:19 What is the real deal with blogs?
Response to paragraph on pg. 85 in Klein and Burstein's Blog!
On page 85 I found a paragraph that I felt contradicted everything this book has stated in previous chapters. In other words I felt that this paragraph was saying that not many people are blogging. Having just argued in previous chapters that blogging was so popular and the new "it" thing to be doing. This paragraph is contradicting that and saying that blogs have no meaning. "The typical blog written by a teenage girl who uses it twice a month to update her friends and classmates on happenings in her life" (pg.85) What? Incidentally the previous reading that I just did for this class was about how important and popular political blogging was, and how much money bloggers are making. My point is if blogging wasn't so popular, why would be bloggers be raking in so much money? This paragraph is almost in a way misleading. It contradicts previous statements that this book has made. However, I do find this paragraph to be an important one. It does show that there are different opinions on blogs, which this book has not made clear in past readings. It is important to recognize every ones views on what they think to be important subjects.Blogs are changing the world one step at a time. By becoming more wide ranged they are allowing more voices to be heard. Essentially what I'm saying is that it is important to know where each person stands on the subject of blogging.
On page 85 I found a paragraph that I felt contradicted everything this book has stated in previous chapters. In other words I felt that this paragraph was saying that not many people are blogging. Having just argued in previous chapters that blogging was so popular and the new "it" thing to be doing. This paragraph is contradicting that and saying that blogs have no meaning. "The typical blog written by a teenage girl who uses it twice a month to update her friends and classmates on happenings in her life" (pg.85) What? Incidentally the previous reading that I just did for this class was about how important and popular political blogging was, and how much money bloggers are making. My point is if blogging wasn't so popular, why would be bloggers be raking in so much money? This paragraph is almost in a way misleading. It contradicts previous statements that this book has made. However, I do find this paragraph to be an important one. It does show that there are different opinions on blogs, which this book has not made clear in past readings. It is important to recognize every ones views on what they think to be important subjects.Blogs are changing the world one step at a time. By becoming more wide ranged they are allowing more voices to be heard. Essentially what I'm saying is that it is important to know where each person stands on the subject of blogging.
Monday, October 8, 2007
HW:18 "least favorite blog"
Response to "Hearts of Darkness, In Congo They Rape Three Year Olds."
http://jezebel.com/gossip/hearts-of-darkness/in-congo-they-rape-three+year+olds-308412.php at http://www.jezebel.com
I found this article to be the worst article posted in the last seven days. This article was heartbreaking. In the Congo a group of men called the Rastas are raping little girls and women. This is disgusting to me. Little girls? Let alone rape at all. What kind of person could do these things to someone who cant help themselves or fight back, what kind of person would do this at all? "Many have been so sadistically attacked from the inside out, butchered by bayonets and assaulted with chunks of wood, that their reproductive and digestive systems are beyond repair." That is awful not only are they scared emotionally, but physically also and for the rest of their lives. The article states that the type of terrain found in the Congo, is ideal for committing these heinous crimes. There are so many hiding spaces due to the massive jungle. The article comments that this group of men seems to be doing this because they are bored. How is this a form of passing time? The thought that crosses my mind is how could a man do this when it could be his daughter, sister or his wife? What justifies this to them? The most disturbing quote was in the last paragraph."they do it to three-year-olds and generally burn the babies who are too young to rape." This gave me goosebumps. Burned babies? How? Why? I just don't understand what runs through their minds as they are doing this. This article really bothered me and really made me question the true nature of some people.
http://jezebel.com/gossip/hearts-of-darkness/in-congo-they-rape-three+year+olds-308412.php at http://www.jezebel.com
I found this article to be the worst article posted in the last seven days. This article was heartbreaking. In the Congo a group of men called the Rastas are raping little girls and women. This is disgusting to me. Little girls? Let alone rape at all. What kind of person could do these things to someone who cant help themselves or fight back, what kind of person would do this at all? "Many have been so sadistically attacked from the inside out, butchered by bayonets and assaulted with chunks of wood, that their reproductive and digestive systems are beyond repair." That is awful not only are they scared emotionally, but physically also and for the rest of their lives. The article states that the type of terrain found in the Congo, is ideal for committing these heinous crimes. There are so many hiding spaces due to the massive jungle. The article comments that this group of men seems to be doing this because they are bored. How is this a form of passing time? The thought that crosses my mind is how could a man do this when it could be his daughter, sister or his wife? What justifies this to them? The most disturbing quote was in the last paragraph."they do it to three-year-olds and generally burn the babies who are too young to rape." This gave me goosebumps. Burned babies? How? Why? I just don't understand what runs through their minds as they are doing this. This article really bothered me and really made me question the true nature of some people.
HW 17b:Gossip dosent matter
Response to Klein and Burstein's Blog!:
I found Zuniga's blog to be more informative. While I was reading each of their interviews I found Zuniga's to be the best blog for following the upcoming election. Zuniga's blog was also efficient and gave topics on what he believed, and then he allowed others to share their opinions. I felt that Cox's blog was geared more toward gossip and sex scandals. Don't get me wrong, these are interesting blogs, but how can they really give us the information that we need to follow an important election? I can see how someone might say Cox's blog posts would give more background information on the potential candidate, but my interest is geared more toward what they stand for not what they do in their spare time. I also connected a little more with Zuniga's because he shared democratic views. I'm not a democrat I honestly am not sure what political party I belong to. However, I did grow up listening to my parents who are democrats, and he shares similar views as they do which I can relate to in a way. Zuniga's blog touched on real issues that the country is struggling with. He is against war, which is such a huge controversy in our country now. His opinions on his posts allow people to get their point across on the issue as well. From his interview I gathered that he seemed like a really knowledgeable person. When following something as serious as politics I believe it is important to receive concrete information from the source. Cox's information was accurate but not vital in the whole picture. Zuniga's blog interested me and I found it very helpful to know what type of issues we need to be focusing on throughout the upcoming election.
I found Zuniga's blog to be more informative. While I was reading each of their interviews I found Zuniga's to be the best blog for following the upcoming election. Zuniga's blog was also efficient and gave topics on what he believed, and then he allowed others to share their opinions. I felt that Cox's blog was geared more toward gossip and sex scandals. Don't get me wrong, these are interesting blogs, but how can they really give us the information that we need to follow an important election? I can see how someone might say Cox's blog posts would give more background information on the potential candidate, but my interest is geared more toward what they stand for not what they do in their spare time. I also connected a little more with Zuniga's because he shared democratic views. I'm not a democrat I honestly am not sure what political party I belong to. However, I did grow up listening to my parents who are democrats, and he shares similar views as they do which I can relate to in a way. Zuniga's blog touched on real issues that the country is struggling with. He is against war, which is such a huge controversy in our country now. His opinions on his posts allow people to get their point across on the issue as well. From his interview I gathered that he seemed like a really knowledgeable person. When following something as serious as politics I believe it is important to receive concrete information from the source. Cox's information was accurate but not vital in the whole picture. Zuniga's blog interested me and I found it very helpful to know what type of issues we need to be focusing on throughout the upcoming election.
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