Daily Archives: December 10, 2022

Drama/Theater, Dunbar-Nelson

Drama/Theater, Dunbar-Nelson

Moral criticism is a form of literary analysis that focuses on the ethical and moral implications of a work of literature. This approach is often associated with the philosopher Plato, who believed that literature should teach piety and virtue, and should be uplifting to society. In the case of Alice Dunbar-Nelson’s play “Mine Eyes Have Seen,” it is difficult to say whether the work exemplifies moral criticism or defies it. On one hand, the play could be seen as depicting the lowest strata of human behavior, which might be considered corrupting to citizens. On the other hand, the play could also be seen as holding a mirror up to nature, showing the harsh realities of society and the struggles of marginalized individuals. A case can be made for both. Although I believe the latter, we see the true nature of humanity and its dire need for justice when the injustice arrives. Is depiction of evil/injustice in it of itself wrong? Or could it help to push the reader to further grasp the consequences it could have on the second party. Or in this instance the marginalized group in the play “Mine Eyes Have Seen”.

Ultimately, the interpretation of the play’s moral implications will depend on the individual reader and their own personal values and beliefs. Some may see the play as upholding Plato’s vision of literature as a teaching tool for virtue and piety, while others may see it as defying this vision by depicting the harsh realities of life. In either case, the play is likely to spark debate and discussion about the role of literature in shaping our understanding of ethics and morality.

Chopin

Chopin, Fiction

The race of a writer can matter when the narrative deals with issues of race, as the writer’s personal experiences and perspective can shape the way they portray these issues in their writing. In the case of Kate Chopin, her background as a white woman from a family of slave owners and her marriage to someone in the cotton industry may have influenced the way she addressed racism in her short story. While it is important for all voices to be heard and for diverse perspectives to be represented, it is also crucial for writers to be aware of their own biases and to consider the potential impact of their race on the way they portray issues of race in their writing. In some cases, writers may choose to step back and allow voices from marginalized communities to take the lead in telling their own stories. Ultimately, the race of the writer should not be the sole determining factor in whether their work is valuable or valid. What is most important is the quality and authenticity of the writing, and whether it accurately and thoughtfully addresses the issues at hand.

Armand

Chopin, Fiction

After witnessing his wife, whom he loved dearly from the day he laid his eyes on her, leave their house distressed and in pain. Armand questioned if that was truly the right decision. “I mean I had to, otherwise no one would take me seriously as a slave master.” Armand reminded himself as he sat idly on what his life had become. The women he called his wife, the women he would stare passionately into, was something that society wouldn’t accept nor allow. A slave master that married his own slave, how could his family name go on. Surely it wasn’t the case but with the boy and his complexion, it would only be a matter of time before others would begin to question his authority as a slave master and more so the right to own the very land his family had passed down. Armand could feel his heart heavy knowing that the women he truly loved would never be seen again nor would his child feel the love of a father.

Parenting

Bambara, Fiction

Children are like sponges, soaking up everything they hear and see, and their developing minds can be easily influenced by the words and actions of the adults around them. It is important for parents and elders in families to be careful about what they say around young children. For the most part, it is best for parents and elders to be honest with children, but to also consider the child’s age and maturity level when determining how much information to share. For younger children, it may be appropriate to shield them from harsh realities and to focus on the positive aspects of a situation. For older children, however, it may be important to be more forthcoming and to help them understand and cope with difficult situations. It should also be noted that parents and elders being more mindful of their own language and behavior around children creates a healthier in general. Children learn by example, so it is crucial for adults to set a good example by speaking and acting in a way that is respectful and kind. Like most things in life, the key is to strike a balance between honesty and protection, and to tailor one’s words and actions to the child’s age and needs. It is also important for parents and elders to remain open and approachable, so that children feel comfortable coming to them with questions and concerns. Generally speaking an approach that leads to children becoming much more reasonable and level headed as they approach their teenage years and young adult life.

Writing as Activism

Bambara, Fiction

Writing can still be a powerful means of activism for BIPOC in present day America. Through the written word, BIPOC can share their experiences, raise awareness about issues affecting their communities, and call for change. Writing can also be a way for BIPOC to reclaim their narrative and counter the dominant, often distorted, narrative about them that is often perpetuated in mainstream media. Social media can also amplify outreach quickly and efficiently . BIPOC writers can use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to share their thoughts and ideas, and to engage with others who are interested in similar issues. They can also use these platforms to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations and to mobilize support for causes they care about. Writing can be a powerful tool for BIPOC to raise awareness, challenge dominant narratives, and call for change. Its an outlet to the purest form of human communication when a greater call for said issue is needed in the most transparent and human way possible