Chapter 4 of “Contingency, Irony, and Solidarity”

Prompt 2, Chapter 4 of “Contingency, Irony, and Solidarity”
Ten Key Points:

1. All human beings use a certain set of words in order to justify their actions or beliefs definitely. These specific words not only dictate how we feel about ourselves but also how we feel about others based on their usage of similar words. These words have been deemed “final vocabulary” (i.e. “right”, “wrong”, “justice”, “fair”)
2. There are those who are considered “ironists” based on their usage and understanding of said words. These are individuals who are fully aware of their usage of said words but acknowledge the fact that there are others who use words that may contradict their beliefs. This acknowledgement creates an inner struggle because even though their personal vocabulary is set, they oft change their minds while listening and understanding other’s “final vocabulary”. They are oft more concerned with people’s opinion rather than what is actually true.
3. Those who do not subject themselves to the flaws of the ironist are considered “commonsensical”.  Those who employ common sense understand that while others may use different “final vocabulary”, they do not judge or ridicule said person for it.
4. Metaphysicians oppose the ironist stance because they do not concern themselves with their own vocabulary but concern themselves with what is actually the truth. They believe that once a person achieves the understanding of what is true, this person should dictate their final vocabulary accordingly.
5. Metaphysicians also believe that people are born with a natural sense of what is the actual truth. They believe that those seeking knowledge and understanding will grasp what is actually true once they explore all options. Metaphysicians subscribe to the “Platonic Theory of Recollection”, which dictates that humans have truth “built in us” which allows us to identify truth once we have heard it.
6. Metaphysicians use certain techniques to actually figure out what is true. They look for contradictions between two plausible principals, and with that information, figure out the differences between the two. This method allows metaphysicians to narrow down the possibilities of what is actually true.
7. “Literary criticism”, is a term used to describe those who analyze literary works based upon previous works. They reference older works in all genres in order to place newer works in a similar context. This concept of “literary criticism” relates to peoples own understanding of new ideas because people often take new information and immediately compare said information with past experiences, thus giving the information personal meaning. Ironists use such criticism to influence their own beliefs by learning new information, interpreting that information, and comparing it to their own.
8. A liberal society functions in the sense that it gives people the opportunity and freedom to view information that is new to them. Analyzing and understanding this new information gives people personal understanding by allowing them to reflect on what they have learned. This freedom to analyze and reflect is what makes a person an individual. The function of said liberal society is to ensure that people have the right to seek outside ideals, even if it is contradictory to what the society stands for politically and/or ideologically.
9. Ironist practice as an ideology is an incorrect stance to take when applying it to a society of peoples. If a society is filled with ironists who dictate what they believe in based on others opinion, then the population would always be wary about their understanding of the world. Those who constantly change their interpretation of vocabulary and meanings based on their own curiosities will remain doubtful anytime they hear something new, rather than actively trying to seek truth.
10. The difference between the ironist and the metaphysician in terms of their approach to others is one of personal opinion. The ironist seeks to educate those whom they deem to be incorrect. In the processes, they tend to humiliate or degrade other individuals whom have different “final vocabulary” than themselves. The metaphysician seeks to educate those in the truth for morality sake. The more individuals who seek absolute truth in a society can only better a society. The ironist seeks their own personal perfection while the metaphysician seeks perfection for all.

Unfamiliar Terms:

ubiquitous: existing or being everywhere; especially at the same time.  omnipresent

parochial: very limited or narrow in scope or outlook; provincial

platitude: a flat or dull or trite remark, especially uttered as if it were profound

nominalist: (in medieval philosophy) the doctrine that general or abstract words do not stand for objectively existing entities and that universals areno more than names assigned to them.

grist: grain to be ground

antecendently: preceeding prior

ancillary: subordinate, subsidiary, assisting

gestalt: a configuration, pattern, or organized field having specific properties that cannot be derived from the summation of its component parts; aunified whole. an instance or example of such a unified whole.

polemics: the art or practice of disputation or controversy: a master of polemics. the branch of theology dealing with the history or conduct ofecclesiastical disputation and controversy.

cotingent: dependent for existence, occurrence, character, etc., on something not yet certain; conditional (often followed by on or upon ): Our plansare contingent on the weather. liable to happen or not; uncertain; possible: They had to plan for contingent expenses.

"prima facie": Prima facie is from a Latin expression meaning at first glance, at first look, or in the first instance. It is a legal term for the first examination and in common law is used to denotes first evidences that unless sufficiently rebutted would be enough to prove a proposition or fact in law.

interlocutor; a person who takes part in a dialogue; an interrogator

idiosynchratic:pertaining to the nature of idiosyncrasy, or something peculiar to an individual: The best minds are idiosyncratic and unpredictableas they follow the course of scientific discovery. 

Chapter Summary:

    There are a certain set of words deemed “final vocabulary”, by Richard Rorty. These words are used to describe personal ideals and opinions to others and to the user themselves. There are two schools of thought when it comes to the usage and understanding of this vocabulary. There is the ironist, who constantly re-describes the meanings of this vocabulary by listening to others opinions and choosing what to agree or disagree with. They tend to re-describe said vocabulary to others in order for the opposite party to agree with them. Then there are the metaphysicians, who seek the absolute truth to this vocabulary in relation to the world using common sense and dialectic techniques. Their goal is to not only better themselves, but those are around them. Although both types of intellectuals have good intentions, ironists do not seem to be achieving anything of societal importance because their opinions change rapidly based on empirical observation. This rapid change in opinion leaves no solid understanding for those trying to interpret the world. The metaphysician attempts to delegate different opinions without personal bias until they achieve the actual truth. This practice is better suited for society it seems, because if all people eventually understand the pure truth of the “final vocabulary” mentioned, then we can all adjust our perspectives accordingly and live lives of true understanding.

Basic Overview, Research for September 27

Basic Overview

Chapter 42:

 

This chapter ends with a conflict with Tulkinghorn and Mademoiselle Hortense who has been looking for him. Snagsby informs Tulkinghorn that Hortense has been making his wife jealous because she is always at his shop but she is there looking for him. She keeps demanding to be let in to see Tulkinghorn. He tells Snagsby to send Mademoiselle Hortense to him. Tulkinghorn goes to his chambers and before he can do what he intended to do some one arrives at his chambers. He was just about to go to the wine cellar when there was knock on the door. When he opens it, it is an angry Mademoiselle Hortense. She said she completed the task that he has asked her to do and she shows him some items. She says that even though she was paid she has yet to spend the money because she is angry. She then goes to say how much she despise Lady Deadlock and she wants him to give her a new a job. She tells him that if he does not fulfill her request she will keep coming to him until he does. He then responds by telling her that he will bring charges against her if she does that.

Chapter 43:

In this chapter Ester is narrating. She talks about how she is trying not to think of Lady Deadlock or mention her name. She tries not to obsess over her. Ester then talks to Mr. Jarndyce and Ada about Richard. Mr Jarndyce no longer has hope that he will give up the case. Ester tells Mr. Jarndyce that Richard met with Vholes because Skimpole received five pounds from Richard. Mr. Jarndyce expresses how he feels about Skimpole. He think he is childish. When they visit Skimpole in London he is happy to see them but he does act a little child-like. Mr. Jarndyce warns Skimpole about taking money from Richard, but Skimpole says he can't deny the money. He explains also why he can't stop encouraging Richard about the lawsuit. He knows nothing about it. Skimpole goes back to the Bleak house with everyone after introducing his family to them. Sir Leicaster arrives at the house unexpectedly and tells them they are allowed to come to Chesney Wold despite the ongoing feud he has with Boythorn. Ester then learns of Boythorn's heartbreak with Lady Deadlock's sister. After learning the details she feels bad because she thinks she is to blame. She then reveals to Sir Leicaster that Lady Deadlock is her mother and Boythorn's old lover was her caretaker. Sir Leicaster sympathizes with Ester and she is deeply grateful.

Chapter 44

Mr. Jarndyce tells Ester to keep the secret to her self. She tells him that she believe some people have suspicion. Before Ester gets to leave Sir Leicaster tells Ester that he has something to tell her but he has to write it down. When Ester gets the chance to read the letter she sees that it is a proposal to marry him. She feels like her acceptance to this proposal is how she can repay him for what he has done. She then decides she will be happy from that day forward and she accepts his proposal.

Chapter 45

Ester meets Vholes. They discuss the issues that Richard is having. Ester decided she is going to see Richard where he is stationed. Ada gives Ester a letter for Richard. When Ester arrives Richard looks sick and he admits he's not doing too well. He then says he already gave up his commission and is going to concentrate on the case. He hopes Vholes will help him. He opens the letter and it is her inheritance. He refuses to accept it because he thinks it is an ulterior motive from Mr. Jarndyce. Despite Esters words Richard made up his mind on what he will do to solve his problems. When Ester leaves she sees Mr. Woodcourt. She goes back to her room but then writes him to inform her whereabouts. Shortly after Mr. Woodcourt arrives, Richard shows up. He talks to Mr. Woodcourt. Ester ask Mr Woodcourt to visit Richard in London on a regular basis and he agrees. 

Chapter 46: While many are indecisive about how Tom will be dealt with by Parliament, it is known that Tom has revenge. He’s vile, and a cause of mss contagion. Meanwhile, Mr. Woodcourt bandages a woman’s bruise, and comments on how her husband can get into worse trouble if he keeps abusing her. Jo then comes running towards Mr. Woodcourt, who thinks that Jo has stolen a woman’s money. After a personal conversation, Jo tells Mr. Woodcourt that someone ordered him to leave the house of the lady who was taking care of him, and that he was paid to do it and ordered to keep this person’s name anonymous.

Chapter 47: Mr. Woodcourt and Jo soon come in contact with Mr. George, who agrees to find Jo a safe place to stay after being told that Jo is being watched by a guy who is everywhere. Jo is sick, however, and is being taken care of by Phil, who was found in the gutter as a baby. Mr. George than explains that Bucket took Jo to Lincoln’s Inn Fields, and that Bucket has been in contact with Mr. Tulkinghorn about a dead person’s offense beforehand. Mr. George then, very angrily, states that Mr. Tulkinghorn is a, “Confoundedly bad kind of man.” Mr. Woodcourt then visits Mr. Snagsby, and finds out that Snagsby was charged by a certain person to not speak of Jo. He then goes to visit Jo, who says Snagsby is uncommonly kind for visiting him. Jo asks Snagsby to make it known, it writing, that Jo has good intentions and was sorry for what he had done. Mr. Woodcourt then prays with Jo, who then dies.

Chapter 48:  Feeling altruistic, Lady Dedlock decided to send Rosa away, feeling that it would be in Rosa’s best interest. Mr. Rouncewell comes to take Rosa away, but Rosa is deeply upset and crying; thinking that she has offended Lady Dedlock in some way. Upon realizing this, Mr. Tulkinghorn states that their agreement is now void, and that he will take his own course of action.  Lady Dedlock now fears that Mr. Tulkinghorn will tell Sir Leicester, but Mr. Tulkinghorn says that it won’t be that night (but does state that he will not tell her when). At the end, a gunshot is heard; drawing the attention of villagers and startling the cats and dogs – Mr. Tulkinghorn has been shot and killed.

Chapter 49: We meet Mr. and Mrs. Bagnet, who are celebrating a birthday dinner for the oldest girl; and they are expecting George to come by later on. When George arrives, he is deeply bothered by the loss of Jo; enough to the point that Mrs. Bagnet comments on his appearance of being “white.” Bucket later comes by, after looking in the musical shop window. Bucket makes himself seem very nice and caring around the children, but eventually him and George leave together. Upon walking, out of view of Mr. and Mrs. Bagnet; Bucket arrests George in a parlor. He tells George to be careful; for what he can be liable for what he says. Bucket states that George is often near the area where Mr. Tulkinghorn lived, and is accusing George of murder.


New Characters: Phil, Mr. George, Mr. and Mrs. Bagnet, Quebec, Malta, Woolwich,

Notes for September 25

9/25/12
CLT 361.01

-Professor Barnhart opened the class by giving a brief refresher on class participation/grading for the course.

-He announced that grades for exam 1 are now posted on blackboard

-Exam 2 prompt is now posted and available on blogspot

-Please make sure administrative group's reading is a duration of at least 3 minutes

-For acoustic purposes, readers from the administrative group should now read in front of the class
(He gave example by reading a passage from Bleakhouse aloud in front of the class)
From the professor reading aloud in front of us, we can gain more by listening and 'catching the written word' more thoroughly.

Professor Barnhardt mentioned his thoughts on perhaps implementing a correspondent to prompts as a designated participation role.

Why are our discussions in class in response to our reading assignments relavent?what purpose does staying engaged and coming prepared with 'selfish expectations' for this class have?

Note: the same language/dialouge we use in class discussions can strongly influence questions and answers on the exams.   

Attention was given over to Structure
Prompt 1 (presented by Thesis) was read

From prompt 1 , we detect how vocabulary/diction correlates with 'classes' ,'class system' in the storyline of Bleakhouse.

proper speech vs. improper speech

Next, Foreshadowing (led by Details) read prompt 2

There were Bible references in the reading and Professor Barnhardt also added that the horse can refer to a cat waiting for a mouse

Rob (Structure's administrator) also added that there indeed is a lot of foreshadowing , will Lady Dedlock commit suicide?

The ring symbolized a number of things which are significant.

Analysis read prompt 3
-How much does the Bible refer to the readings? What connections are made?

Lana explained sensationalism / taboo draw and the idea that perhaps Dickens incorporated Bible refernces to cater and attract a larger audience since he initially published this as a weekly/serial seller.

- was it counter intuitive for Dickens to write about the poor, when a large amount of poor people would relate to Bible references made in Bleakhouse ?

Professor adds that the middle class of the 1900's were completely different that our middle class today. The novel/literacy in the 1900's Dickens representation of upper class was NOT very favorable.

Steve explained the quote,"Little pitchers have big ears" referring to small children understanding more than adults would want them to understand.

We then broke up into group discussion...

Professor Barnhart explained the EXAM PROMPT to the class ..
PAY ATTENTION TO LENGTHS SPECIFIED (ie:half page typed)

Announcements:
Next class administrator Group: ANALYSIS
Prompt 1: STRUCTURE
prompt 2: THESIS
prompt 3:DETAILS
READ UP TO CHAPTER 49
EXAM DUE FRIDAY 11:59PM

Christina closed the class the her reading from page 461 of Bleakhouse

-->

Thesis Group

Prompt: Diction

MCG

- Profession - related vocabulary

-  Question the authority or appropriateness of a character vocabulary

Character	Profession	Example	Page Number	Analysis
Ester Summonson	Ward	“I hope, Guardian,” said I “that you may not trust too much to my discretion. I hope you may not mistake me. I am afraid it will be a disappointment to you to know that I am not clever - but it really is the truth; and you would soon find it out if I had not the honesty to confess it.”	p90	Although she claims she is “not clever”, our narrator, Esther Summerson has had schooling in her young career as a ward. As a privileged youth, her active vocabulary paired with a simple straight-forward style matches her assumed intellect. She is polite, humble and very childlike in tone but speaks intelligently, especially in her narrative.
Richard Carstone	Ward	“I am very sure, sir,” returned Richard, “that I speak for Ada, too, when I say that you have the strongest power over us both-rooted in respect, gratitude, and affection - strengthening every day.”	p162	Richard is a ward, thereby, educated. Candid in his speech, he uses very little adjectives and does not speak cleverly. He speaks as to address, confident and respectful, though some times a bit to trusting and assuming, as he is still green to the world.
John Jarndyce	Law Partner	“Ada, my love, Esther, my dear, you are welcome. I rejoice to see you! Rick, if I had a hand to spare at present, I would give it to you!”	p60	Mr Jarndyce speaks both eloquently and kindly. He is affectionate and speaks very paternally, as a father towards the wards, and other children, such as Skimple.
Harold Skimpole	Doctor	“I envy you your power of doing what you do. It is what I should revel in, myself. I don’t feel any vulgar gratitude to you. I almost feel as if you ought to be grateful to me, for giving you the opportunity of enjoying the luxury of generosity. I know you like it. For anything I can tell, I may have come into the world expressly for the purpose on increasing your stock of happiness. I may have been born to be a benefactor to you, by sometimes giving you an opportunity of assisting me in my little perplexities. Why should I regret my incapacity for details and worldly affairs, when it leads to such pleasant consequences? I don’t regret it therefore.”	p67	Mr Skimpole is clever indeed. A master debater, he uses his intelligence to charm, though betrays his cleverness by countering arguments with guilting banters trying to manipulate listeners to think a certain way. His way.
Lady (Honoria) Dedlock	Noble	“Pray, Sir Leicester, let me hear the story out... It is quite a story for twilight. How very shocking! Dead?”	p149	Lady Dedlock, who in the beginning of the novel claimed she was “bored to death” seeks excitement and thrills. This is because she is a lady, meaning woman, and must be treated delicately. Dedlock speaks lovely like a lady but shows her longing for more, which I guess her restlessness reflects in the plot, with that whole baby out of wedlock thing.
William Guppy	Lawyer	“Not half a glass?” said Mr Guppy; “quarter? No! Then, to proceed. My present salary, Miss Summerson, at Kenge and Carboy’s, is two pound a week. When I first had the happiness of looking upon you, it was one-fifteen, and had stood at the figure for a lengthened period. A rise of five has since taken place, and a further rise of five is guaranteed at the expiration of a term not exceeding twelve months from the present date. My mother has a little property, which takes the form of a small life annuity; upon which she lives an independent though unassuming manner, in the Old Street Road. She is eminently calculated for a mother-in-law. She never interferes, is all for peace, and her disposition easy. She has her failings - as who  has not? - but I never knew her do it when company was present; at which time you may freely trust her with wine, spirits, or malt liquors. My own abode is lodgings at Penton Place, Pentonville. It is lowly, but airy, open at the back, and considered one of the ‘ealthiest outlets. Miss Summerson! In mildest language, I adore you. Would you be so kind as to allow me (as I may say) to make an offer!”	p113	Being a lawyer, Guppy speaks very formally with large words appropriate to his stature. Devoid of emotion, he treats a marriage proposal as a business transaction, showing all documentation and pedigree before even stating why he would like Esther to be his wife (which is to say only that he “adores her”). Shallow and concise, Guppy is very detailed in speaking, and shows his roots only when intoxicated (the use of “‘ealthiest”).
Caddy Jellyby	Daughter	“It seems a little thing to cry about,” said poor Miss Jellyby, apologetically, “but I am quite worn out. I was directing the new circulars till two this morning. I detest the whole thing so, that that alone makes my head ache till I can’t see out my eyes. And look at that poor unfortunate child! Was there ever such a fright as he is!”	p166	Caddy is a daughter of the Middle to Lower class. Obedient and tired, she is apologetic in her speech, and yes, its not very formal and full of expression rather than wit, signifying her class. In addition her small vocabulary and candid responses show further her social standing.
Mr Turveydrop	Father	“It is my reward,” said Mr Turveydrop, “to hear you say so. In some respects, he treads in the footsteps of his sainted mother. She was a devoted creature. But Woomen, lovely Wooman...what a sex you are!”	p175	Old Mr Turveydrop is the father of a well-off dance captain. Not in his own right is he rich, which reflects in his informal linguistic patterns (“wooman”). He thinks high of himself because of this. In this passage he speaks of his latter-wife, and of woman in general negatively and sarcastically because he couldn’t keep his own lady, emphasizing his male-dominant mind.
Mrs. Pardiggle	Mum	“You are wrong, Miss Summerson,” said she: “but perhaps you are not equal to hard work, or the excitement of it; and that makes a vast difference. If you would like to see how I go through my work, I am now about - with my young family - to visit a brickmaker in the neighborhood (a very bad character), and shall be glad to take you with me.”	p97	Mrs. Pardiggle is off the middle to lower  class and flaunts her work ethic (the used of “I” frequently). Her vocabulary is limited, as appropriate, yet she tries to speak more formally, and much like Skimpole, tries to manipulate others to her cause through guilt.

Research Prompts for September 25

Research Prompt, No. 1

Bleak House, Basic Overview

Create a chart with the following information:

1. Give a brief summary (50 words) of each chapter in today's reading assignment.
2. What are the additional main figures, or, who are the new characters in the text?
3. Create a diagram that maps the different plot lines for these chapters.

Email a digital copy of this chart to the instructor before the start of class: rtbarnha@ic.sunysb.edu

Research Prompt, No. 2

Contingency, Irony, Solidarity, Chapter 4

Create a chart with the following information:

1. Make a list of ten key points from this chapter.
2. Make a list of twenty or so terms that you are unfamiliar with from this chapter. (Every time you see a word you don't know, write it down.)
3. Write a rough draft summary of the chapter.

Email a digital copy of this chart to the instructor before the start of class: rtbarnha@ic.sunysb.edu

Research Prompt, No. 3

Bleak House, Critical Language

Create a chart with the following information:

1. Create a list of five questions about the plot that you would like to better understand from the assigned reading.
2. Bring up two quotes that you think are interesting or confusing.
3. Find definitions for the basic elements of fiction. Present them in class. Reference your sources in the presentation.

Email a digital copy of this chart to the instructor before the start of class: rtbarnha@ic.sunysb.edu

Week 5 Exam

The Week Three Exam is due this Friday, 9/28/2012, to be submitted electronically via SafeAssign, available on Blackboard under Course Assignments.
Please respond to all of the following prompts:

A. Narration  (~ one typed 12pt font, double-spaced page)
1. What is the point of view of the narration? Use textual references to support your claim.
2. A story can be very different depending on who tells it. How does the point of view of the narrator affect the audience's understanding of the story? Use textual references to support your claim.
3. What details does this narration provide that are unique to the narration's point of view?
4. Taking all of these details and references into consideration, how does this narration function as part of the larger novel?
5. State what you believe to be the central theme of the novel and discuss how this narration functions to support that theme.

B. Character  (~ one typed 12pt font, double-spaced page)
1. Pick a character besides Esther Summerson from the novel.
2. Provide a description of the character from the text.
3. Find and briefly describe three events from the text involving the character.
4. Discuss the role the character plays in these events.
5. Discuss how the narration's point of view impacts the audience's perception of the character.
6. How does the text construct this character? Is he well-developed, a caricature, highly symbolic? Present textual references to support your case.
7. Why does the text construct this character in this way? How does this construction contribute to the overall theme(s) of the novel?

C. Setting  (~ one typed 12pt font, double-spaced page)

1. Pick a setting (location) in the novel.
2. Provide a description of the setting (location) from the text.
3. Find and briefly describe three events from the text involving this particular setting.
4. Discuss the role this setting plays in these events.
5. Why do/must these events occur in this place? Provide textual references to support your case.
6. Discuss how the narration's point of view impacts the audience's perception of the setting.
6. How does the text construct this setting? Is it well-developed, a caricature, highly symbolic? Present textual references to support your case.
7. Why does the text construct this particular setting in this way? How does this construction contribute to the overall theme(s) of the novel?

D. Theme  (~ half of a typed 12pt font, double-spaced page)
1. Find three quotes from the text that illustrate what you believe the theme to be.
2. Write a paragraph explaining why you think these quotes illustrate the theme.
3. What has the author chosen to discuss this theme in a novel?
4. What other ways are there to write about or bring these themes into public discourse?
5. What advantages and disadvantages are there to discussing the theme in a novel? Provide textual support.

E. Criticism  (~ half of a typed 12pt font, double-spaced page)
1. Read the Brimley review on page 933 of the text.
2. Identify two or three criticisms that Brimley has of Bleak House.
3. Provide a definition of verisimilitude.
4. Brimley's critique depends in large part on the value he places on verisimilitude. On the points of criticism you noted above, it is possible that author was aware of the gap between realistic construction and his final product, or perhaps he was not aware. Either way, how does the straying away from reality function in the text. Does it, (A) occur as the result of the author working to push one convention at the expense of another, or (B), occur as the result of an intended variance from realistic depiction? For either case, explain how the text is served, how the central theme is supported because of the apparent variance.

Notes for September 20, Bleak House

CLT 361 Notes for Thursday, September 20^th

Ryan began the class by providing ways to go about literary research. Here are the charts and tools he suggested:

1. Lists of characters: provide their names and the instances in the book where they played an important role along with the chapter/page number. This information can be structured in a chart:

Character Name	Instance (What happened)	Chapter or Page Number
Ex. Lady Dedlock	Acting mysteriously…	Chapter 28

2. Timeline of Events or Plot Line: provide a chronological list of key events. There are different ways one can go about this. Here are some examples:

A Traditional Timeline: OR A List of Events:

Date/Page Number- Event

Ex. Page 198- Richard and Ada got married

Page 198- Esther became friends with Rosa

Page 198- Mr. Tulkinghorn died

OR a Plot Line with narrative/literary elements:

3. Foreshadowing chart: create a chart that gives examples of foreshadowing, the page numbers and what you expect to happen.

Instance of Foreshadowing	Page Number	Hypothesis
Ex. Lady Dedlock notices the hand writing on the documents	Page 87	The person who wrote the document knows the truth about the Jarndyce case.

4. Revelations, Discoveries & Uncoverings: create a chart that organizes important information that has been recently revealed.

What was foreshadowed	What was revealed	It’s implications
Ex. Lady Dedlock was acting mysteriously towards Esther	Esther is Lady Dedlock’s daughter	They now have to build a relationship

5. Places & Spaces: List important places from the text, their descriptions or roles in the story, and the page number of these descriptions:

Location	Description	Page Number
London	Dirty, crowded, foggy	Page 92
Lincoln’s Inn	Quaint, safe, pretty	Page 38
Bleak House	Open, large, many rooms	Page 393

*Ryan said he will go more in depth about this next class.

6. Language: make a list of any dialects, idiomatic expressions, literary references, cultural references, footnotes, or word choices that are significant, interesting, or questionable.

7. Diction: make notes of the author’s word choice including words or terms related to profession, question the authenticity or appropriateness of a character’s vocabulary, what the word choice leads us to feel, think or expect, etc.

8. Notable Passages: list any passages that stand out for their emotion or quality of writing.

Ex. sweeping descriptions, energetic/meaningful/heated dialogue, exposition ideology

*Ryan noted that you don’t need to cover each of these, but the one(s) that stand out or the ones that interest you and will help you on the exams by exploring.

Steve then reminded us that the homework that was due today was to have read up to chapter 32 of Bleak House and chapter 3 in CIS. Next week’s homework is to have read up to chapter 41 in Bleak House. Structure will be in charge of administration.

Next, each group presented their prompts which can be viewed through the course website: http://vulgaranalysis.blogspot.com/

Bleak House Research: Language & Diction

In Bleak House, the writing alternates between first and third person. The unidentified third person and the first person is narrated by Esther. The language of the narration in the third person is able to describe the other characters mannerisms but fails to explain how they became the characters they are and how their lives developed. This kind of narration describes the actions of characters and does so in a theatrical way. When Esther narrates, she explains to the reader such pretenses and incorporates her own thoughts and ideas. She adds her own tone and personality when she narrates including her modesty. The dialog between the characters is a direct reflection of their own personalities and from the dialog one can directly identify the background of a character.

2) “With this unexpected speech, energetically delivered and accompanied by action illustrative of the various exercises referred to, Phil Squod shoulders his way round three sides of the gallery, and abruptly tacking off at his commander, makes a butt at him with his head, intended to express devotion to his service. He then begins to clear away the breakfast.”

"My dear friend! But that sword looks awful gleaming and sharp. It might cut somebody, by accident. It makes me shiver, Mr. George. Curse him!" says the excellent old gentleman apart to Judy as the trooper takes a step or two away to lay it aside. "He owes me money, and might think of paying off old scores in this murdering place. I wish your brimstone grandmother was here, and he'd shave her head off."

3) The dialog between the characters not necessarily authentic in the sense that they would speak to each other in such a way. The characters have a few exaggerated characteristics which makes them almost one dimensional. Due to this it does not seem such conversations would actually take place.

"Well, I dare say it may be; but I AM a child, and I never pretend to be anything else. If you put him out in the road, you only put him where he was before. He will be no worse off than he was, you know. Even make him better off, if you like. Give him sixpence, or five shillings, or five pound ten—you are arithmeticians, and I am not—and get rid of him” -Mr Skimpole (chpt31)

"William Guppy," replies the other, "I am in the downs. It's this unbearably dull, suicidal room—and old Boguey downstairs, I suppose."-Mr. Weevle

"Therefore you may happen to have in your possession something—anything, no matter what; accounts, instructions, orders, a letter, anything—in Captain Hawdon's writing. I wish to compare his writing with some that I have. If you can give me the opportunity, you shall be rewarded for your trouble. Three, four, five, guineas, you would consider handsome, I dare say."- Mr. Tulkinghorn (chpt27)

"Why, sir," returns the trooper. "Except on military compulsion, I am not a man of business. Among civilians I am what they call in Scotland a ne'er-do-weel. I have no head for papers, sir. I can stand any fire better than a fire of cross questions. I mentioned to Mr. Smallweed, only an hour or so ago, that when I come into things of this kind I feel as if I was being smothered. And that is my sensation," says Mr. George, looking round upon the company, "at the present moment." –Mr George (chpt 27)

"Oh! Poor Pa," said Caddy, "only cried and said he hoped we might get on better than he and Ma had got on. He didn't say so before Prince, he only said so to me. And he said, 'My poor girl, you have not been very well taught how to make a home for your husband, but unless you mean with all your heart to strive to do it, you had better murder him than marry him—if you really love him.'" Caddy Jellyby (chpt30)

4) Economic

“It seemed that Caddy's unfortunate papa had got over his bankruptcy—"gone through the Gazette," was the expression Caddy used, as if it were a tunnel—with the general clemency and commiseration of his creditors, and had got rid of his affairs in some blessed manner without succeeding in understanding them, and had given up everything he possessed (which was not worth much, I should think, to judge from the state of the furniture), and had satisfied every one concerned that he could do no more, poor man.”(chpt30)

“Service, however (with a few limited reservations, genteel but not profitable), they may not do, being of the Dedlock dignity. So they visit their richer cousins, and get into debt when they can, and live but shabbily when they can't, and find—the women no husbands, and the men no wives—and ride in borrowed carriages, and sit at feasts that are never of their own making, and so go through high life. The rich family sum has been divided by so many figures, and they are the something over that nobody knows what to do with.” (chpt28)

"No, my young friend," says Chadband smoothly, "I will not let you alone. And why? Because I am a harvest-labourer, because I am a toiler and a moiler, because you are delivered over unto me and are become as a precious instrument in my hands. My friends, may I so employ this instrument as to use it to your advantage, to your profit, to your gain, to your welfare, to your enrichment! My young friend, sit upon this stool."(chpt25)

"Why, then, it is that you will marry some one very rich and very worthy, much older—five and twenty years, perhaps—than yourself. And you will be an excellent wife, and much beloved, and very happy." Chpt 30

Bleak House Research: Overview, ch. 25-32

Chapter 25

            Mr. Snagsby is nervous when anybody comes to the shop looking for him because of the affair he is involved in with Jo and Tulkinghorn.  Mrs. Snagsby becomes very suspicious of Mr. Snagsby because she can tell he is hiding something.  She searches through all his things and follows him everywhere.  He meets up with the Chadbands, Jo, Guster and the apprentices.  Mrs. Snagsby thinks Mr. Snagsby looks right at Jo ad coughs, and concludes Jo is his son.

Chapter 26

            George and Phil conversed in the morning about the past, and how they met when George rescued Phil in the street who is crippled.  Grandpa Smallweed and Judy visit George because George owes him money.  Then Grandpa Smallweed talks about business done between Carstone and Georges student.  Then he mentions Captain Hawdon and says he’s not dead, but he needs writings from him to give to a lawyer.  George says even if he had them he wouldn’t help, so Grandpa Smallweed tells him to visit the lawyer and he agrees.

Chapter 27

            George goes to Lincoln’s Inn Fields to visit Mr. Tulkinghorn.  Tulkinghorn explains that since George was a friend and served under Captain Hawdon he though he might have some writings that would help him.  He would also reward him if he helped out.  George refuses to hand over any and Tulkinghorn won’t explain why he needs them.  G Smallweed sells George out and says he slipped some into his pocket.  George visits the Bagnets in their musical instrument shop.  They all have dinner together and George tells them what is going on.  The Bagnets tell him to not get involved.  On his way home George stops at Tulkinghorn’s and tells him he has changed his mind.  Tulkinghorn asks if George ha seen Gridley in his shooting gallery and George said yes.

Chapter 28

            Sir Leicester Deadlock has many poor relatives who visit at Chensey Wold.  Currently Volumnia Deadlock is staying there. She is sixty and receives financial support from Sir Leicester deadlock.  Sir Deadlock tells Volumnia that Mrs. Rouncewell has two sons and Mr. Rouncewell is called the “ironmaster”.  Mr. Rouncewell says his son wants to marry Rosa but she must leave Chensey Wold because he doesn’t want an unequal marriage.  Sir Leicester says no and Mr. Rouncewell says he will get his daughter to forget about Rosa.  Lady Deadlock finds out that Rosa loves his son.  She and Rosa agree she isn’t ready to leave Chensey.

Chapter 29

            Chensey Wold is closed and the Deadlock’s go to their house in town.  Guppy visits to see Lady Deadlock but it’s not about the case, it’s about Esther.  He thinks Esther is part of Lady deadlocks family because she resembles her so much.  He wants to prove it so she can be part of the Jarndyce Jarndyce case.  He tells Lady Deadlock that Esther’s guardian before was Miss Barbary.  Miss Barbary told Guppy that Esther’s real last name was Hawdon.  Lady Deadlock was shocked but covers it.  She says she never heard that name.  When Guppy leaves she cries and realizes Esther is her daughter that her sister told her died at birth.

Chapter 30

            Mrs. Woodcourt visits a few days at Bleak House.  Esther finds Mrs. Woodcourt annoying but she doesn’t know why.  She makes her uncomfortable saying that Esther will marry someone very rich and much older.  Esther wonders why it is so important to her that Mrs. Woodcourt likes her.  Caddy Jellyby then visits who is getting married in a month.  She stays at Bleak House for a few weeks to make her dress and learn house keeping.  Esther goes home with Caddy to convince Mrs. Jellyby the wedding is really happening.

Chapter 31

            Charley and Esther visit Jenny.  They go to her cottage and see a boy on the floor.  The boy calls out as soon as he sees Esther; I wont take her to the burial ground.  The little boy Jo says she looks like the woman he took to the burial ground.  Jo tells Esther he is very sick and she takes him home.  Mr. Skimple tells Mrs. Jarndyce to send Jo away but she says no and settles him in.  The next morning Jo is gone.  Charley gets small pox and almost dies but Esther takes care of her.  Then Esther gets sick and Charley takes care of her.

Chapter 32

            Krook spontaneously combusts…  Weevle’s sleeve was covered in sot and the windowsill had yellow liquor all over it.  At midnight Weevle went to Krook’s to get the letters but returns saying he was gone.  Then they all go over there and find burnt patches on the ground and Krook’s arm, which they thought was a log.

New Characters

Mr. Bagnet- A solider who is friends with George who owns a musical instrument shop in town.

Mrs. Bagnet- Mr. Bagnets wife

Jo- A sick boy who takes Lady Deadlock to the grave

Voulmnia Deadlock- Sir Leicester’s cousin

Miss Barbary- Esther’s former Guardian

Plot Lines

George has some writings about Captain Hawdon that might help the case but he doesn’t want to hand them over----- George changes his mind about the writings and works with Tulkinghorn on the case-----Mr.  Rouncewell’s son wants to marry Rosa Sir Leicester Deadlock says no-----Lady Deadlock finds out Esther is her daughter that she thought died at birth-----Caddy Jellyby gets married-----Narrator reveals Jo lead Lady Deadlock to the burial-----Krook spontaneously combusts