WAR POETRY | Task

Thinking Task

            This blog is prepared as part of thinking activity on war poetry.

Compare any two poems concerning the subject, style of writing, and patriotism. 

The Soldier by Rupert Brook

If I should die, think only this of me:

      That there’s some corner of a foreign field

That is for ever England. There shall be

      In that rich earth a richer dust concealed;

A dust whom England bore, shaped, made aware,

      Gave, once, her flowers to love, her ways to roam;

A body of England’s, breathing English air,

      Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home.

And think, this heart, all evil shed away,

      A pulse in the eternal mind, no less

            Gives somewhere back the thoughts by England given;

Her sights and sounds; dreams happy as her day;

      And laughter, learnt of friends; and gentleness,

            In hearts at peace, under an English heaven.

The Fear Wilfrid Wilson Gibson

I do not fear to die

‘Neath the open sky,

To meet death in the fight

Face to face, upright.

But when at last we creep

Into a hole to sleep,

I tremble, cold with dread,

Lest I wake up dead.

Subject

Nineteen-Fourteen: The Soldier or The Soldier is the war poem written during first world war by a soldier Rupert Brook. Main subject of the poem is patriotism of soldier, who fought many battles for his country, and takes pride in it. Here, soldier is from England and fought many battles for country and believes that there are many foreign fields that now belong to England now. The second poem also talks about the same theme of patriotism but here the soldier himself is not the part of any war but only encourages others to go into the war because poet is not afraid to die beneath the open sky in the battleground.

Style of Writing

Rupert Brooke's poem "The Soldier" conveys a patriotic and idealistic mood through a formal and traditional language, employing iambic pentameter and rhymed couplets. The poem emanates a romantic atmosphere and communicates the speaker's readiness to sacrifice for their country, characterized by a tone of nobility and honor. The Fear is one of the shortest war poem concerning the courageousness of a soldier in a battlefield.

Patriotism

"The Soldier" by Rupert Brooke shows strong love for England. The soldier feels really connected to his country, thinking it's a big part of who he is. He's willing to give up his life to protect England, showing how much he values his nation. Even when thinking about the possibility of dying in a faraway place, he sees it as a way of keeping England alive in that foreign land. The soldier believes he's like a living representation of his country, and this connection stays strong even in the face of death. The poem talks about England like a caring mother and mentions an "English heaven," highlighting the idea that the bond between a person and their homeland lasts forever, even beyond life.

Do you find any such regional poem/movie/web series/songs which can be compared to any one of the poems given here. Also, give a proper explanation of the similarity. 

"Kesari" Movie

This historical war drama depicts the 1897 Battle of Saragarhi, highlighting Havildar Ishar Singh's leadership of a platoon of 21 Sikhs. They valiantly defended the North-West Frontier Province against an overwhelming force of 10,000 Afghans, marking it as one of the most remarkable last-stands in history.

Adapted from the actual events of the 1897 Battle of Saragarhi, the story revolves around Havildar Ishar Singh and his 21 Sikh comrades facing a daunting challenge against 10,000 Afghans. During a routine patrol, Singh and his fellow Sikhs witness a distressing scene where a woman is about to be executed for refusing an arranged marriage with an older man. Singh, driven by a sense of justice, seeks to intervene and prevent the execution. However, the British officer in command, reluctant to become entangled in local affairs, instructs his men not to intervene or take any action.

Patriotism of Ishwar

The one-hour-long battle in Kesari faces a similar drawback. Lacking in strategic warfare tactics or military brilliance, the film simplifies the Sikh-Afghan conflict into a basic exchange of bullets and swords. The Afghan forces approach the fort, face gunfire, and meet their demise. In a peculiar twist, when Ishwar engages in solo combat against numerous Afghans, none of them, inexplicably, opt to use guns to subdue him. Instead, they take turns charging at him with swords, forming a crowd nearby, resulting in a massacre. Despite sustaining multiple stab wounds, Ishwar miraculously defies death for several minutes, summoning a last-minute surge of patriotism.

"Teri Mitti" Song from Kesari 

तलवारों पे सर वार दिए अंगारों में

जिस्म जलाया है तब जाके के कहीं हमने

सर पे यह केसरी रंग सजाया है......

ऐ मेरी ज़मीन अफ़सोस नहीं जो तेरे लिए

सौ दर्द सहे महफ़ूज़ रहे तेरी आन सदा

चाहे जान मेरी ये रहे ना रहे

ऐ मेरी ज़मीन महबूब मेरी

मेरी नस नस में तेरा इश्क़ बहे

फीका ना पड़े कभी रंग तेरा

जिस्मों से निकल के ख़ून कहे

तेरी मिट्टी में मिल जावाँ गुल बनके

मैं खिल जावाँ इतनी सी है दिल की आरज़ू

तेरी नदियों में बह जावाँ

तेरे खेतों में लहरावाँ इतनी सी है दिल की आरज़ू

वो ओ… सरसों से भरे खलिहान मेरे जहाँ

झूम के भंगड़ा पा ना सका आबाद रहे वो गाँव मेरा

जहाँ लौट के वापस जा ना सका हो

वतना वे, मेरे वतना वे

तेरा मेरा प्यार निराला था

कुर्बान हुआ तेरी अस्मत पे मैं

कितना नसीबों वाला था

तेरी मिट्टी में मिल जावाँ गुल बनके

मैं खिल जावाँ इतनी सी है दिल की आरज़ू

तेरी नदियों में बह जावाँ

तेरे खेतों में लहरावाँ इतनी सी है दिल की आरज़ू

ओ हीर मेरी तू हँसती रहे

तेरी आँख घड़ी भर नम ना हो

मैं मरता था जिस मुखड़े पे

कभी उसका उजाला कम ना हो

"Teri Mitti" is a heartfelt song that expresses a strong love for our country. The title, meaning "Your Soil," shows a deep emotional tie to the land. The lyrics talk about sacrifice and bravery, giving respect to those who serve in the armed forces. The song honors the dedication of warriors who sacrificed their lives for the country, showing a strong sense of duty and pride. The lyrics emphasize enduring pain for the nation, highlighting the selflessness and determination of individuals who work hard to protect their homeland. Overall, "Teri Mitti" is a moving and powerful tribute to patriotism.

References:

Doman, Peg. “Kesari – Heroism Comes in Many Different Colors and Locations Even in Afghanistan – Film Review – The Suburban Times.” The Suburban Times, 30 August 2021, https://thesubtimes.com/2021/08/30/kesari-heroism-comes-in-many-different-colors-and-locations-even-in-afghanistan-film-review/. Accessed 29 January 2024.

“Movie Review: Akshay Kumar's 'Kesari' Is Yet Another Contrived Nationalist Drama.” The Wire, 21 March 2019, https://thewire.in/film/movie-review-kesari-akshay-kumar. Accessed 29 January 2024.

Thank You.

ARCHETYPAL CRITICISM

Hello, 

         

 This blog is crafted as part of thinking activity on "Archetypal Criticism" by Canadian literary critic Northrop Frye. Here, one can find some answers to the questions related to archetypal criticism. 

Q) What is archetypal criticism? What does the archetypal critic do? 

Archetypal criticism is a type of criticism that went into core of the literature, and find the recurring themes and patterns that would be common in most of the world literature. And to go into core of literature means to went back in times of myths. Myths are the thing from which any of the literature has emerged, so as archetypal criticism. 

According to M.H. Abrahams

"In Literary criticism, the term archetype denotes narrative designs, patterns of actions, character types, themes, and images that recur in a wide variety of works of literature, as well as in myths, dreams, and even social rituals."

For instance, Ferdinand de Saussure who is a Swiss linguist, did study on the language of all over the world and came to know that every language has the similar structure, a common skeleton. Literature from all over the world also has the same type of common skeleton, and to find this skeleton was the quest of Northrop Frye. 

Though, Frye was not the first one who sought for this quest. The works like "Collective Consciousness" and "The Golden Bough" respectively by Karl Jung and James Frazer have established the roots of archetypal criticism. 

Q)  What is Frye trying to prove by giving an analogy of 'Physics to Nature' and 'Criticism to Literature'? Share your views of Criticism as an organized body of knowledge. 

Here, Frye made analogy between physics and criticism, he argues that criticism ought to strive for a level of systematic, organized, and scientific rigor, similar to the approach physics employs in comprehending the natural world.

In his essay "Archetypes of Criticism",

'The acquisition of knowledge in any organized field is an incremental process. Literature, like physics, involves a systematic study. However, it's important to note a semantic challenge. While one can learn about literature, the actual learning process pertains to the criticism of literature, akin to studying physics rather than nature itself.'

both physics and literary criticism involve a systematic study with established methodologies, rely on an incremental process of knowledge acquisition, and face semantic challenges in precise communication and interpretation.

Q) Share your views of criticism as an organized body of knowledge. Mention the relation of literature with history and philosophy.

Literature is made of many historical events and philosophical idea. One have to have historical sense in writing literature that is also mentioned by literary critic T. S. Eliot in his essay "Tradition and Individual Talent". Both historical events and individual philosophical ideas forms the main body of literature. Creative writers uses various historical events in their creative works, and alludes to them in their work, also literature is the retelling of the same story over and over again with slight changes in plot.

If we take example of movie, it would be possible that story is same but with which ideas story is conveyed is more crucial. For example there are lots of movie have been made on the storyline of Ramayan, but it is conveyed through very different and unique ideas. These new ideas in the plot is the most potent thing. 

Q) Briefly explain the inductive method with an illustration of Shakespeare's Hamlet's Grave Digger's scene. 

Inductive method progresses from particular to general. The scene opens with two grave diggers who are digging Ophelia's grave, with such light hearted and amusing manner. Hamlet sees this from bushes and afterwards involves with two grave diggers into comic chit chat. Firstly, it brings some humor into the story while the overall plot becomes more serious. Secondly, it criticizes organized religion. The scene is quite long and has two main parts: Hamlet and Horatio talking with the gravediggers, and then Ophelia's burial. The scene is not just about making people laugh, it also emphasizes the idea that everyone will die someday, hinting at the upcoming tragic ending. It's a moment where Hamlet stops pretending to be crazy, and the scene feels very real and true to life. Overall, it adds depth and different layers to the play beyond just being funny. The gravediggers in the play serve as a source of humor, providing a break from the serious and somber tone of the overall tragic story. In the midst of the intense and grim events, their scenes bring a lighter and more entertaining element to the play, offering the audience moments of comic relief.

During Hamlet's discussion with the gravedigger, they make specific observations about the universality and leveling effect of death. For example, when Hamlet finds Yorick's skull, he contemplates how everyone, regardless of their social standing or accomplishments, is destined to face the unavoidable fate of mortality.

"Worm Meat" Theme

The gravediggers' dialogue in Hamlet, heavily centered on the theme of death, acts as a prelude to the exploration of the "worm meat" theme within the same scene. Hamlet engages in a clever exchange of questions and answers with the First Gravedigger, and the tossing and dashing of a skull prompts Hamlet to reflect on death as the ultimate equalizer. His fascination with mortality is evident throughout the play, notably in his earlier soliloquy where he wishes for the dissolution of his own flesh. This theme is further developed in the scene, particularly when Hamlet contemplates Yorick's skull, visualizing the decomposition of facial features. His musings extend to the idea that all individuals, regardless of social status or worldly accomplishments, will eventually become mere "worm's meat," highlighting the leveling nature of death.

In this scene, Hamlet's meditation on mortality intensifies as he envisions the dust of renowned figures like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar. He reflects on the inevitability of death, emphasizing that even the most influential individuals, be they politicians, lawyers, or rulers, will ultimately be reduced to the commonality of dust. The notion of death as the great leveler, turning all to the same essential dust, becomes a powerful and recurring theme in Hamlet's contemplations.

Q) Briefly explain the deductive method with reference to an analogy to Music, Painting, rhythm, and pattern.  Give examples of the outcomes of the deductive method.

The deductive method starts with a big idea and then looks at specific examples. In the essay's third part, Frye gives examples from music and painting, which are arts that happen over time and in space. He points out that both music and painting use the organizing principle of recurrence. This means things happening again. All art can be thought of as either happening over time or taking up space. Literature, according to Frye, is in between music and painting in this way.

Using deductive reasoning in music, you begin with a broad theory regarding the fundamental principles of organization, such as rhythm and patterns. Subsequently, you put this theory into action by examining specific instances. This approach facilitates the assessment of how different musical compositions either adhere to or deviate from these fundamental principles.

Q) Refer to the Indian seasonal grid. If you can, please read a small Gujarati, Hindi, or English poem from the archetypal approach and apply the Indian seasonal grid to the interpretation.

ભોમિયા વિના મારે ભમવા’તા ડુંગરા,

જંગલની કુંજકુંજ જોવી હતી;

જોવાં’તાં કોતરો ને જોવી’તી કંદરા,

રોતાં ઝરણાંની આંખ લ્હોવી હતી.

સૂના સરવરિયાની સોનેરી પાળે, હંસોની હાર મારે ગણવી હતી; ડાળે ઝૂલંત કોક કોકિલાને માળે, અંતરની વેદના વણવી હતી. એકલા આકાશ તળે ઊભીને એકલો, પડઘા ઉરબોલના ઝીલવા ગયો; વેરાયા બોલ મારા, ફેલાયા આભમાં, એકલો, અટૂલો ઝાંખો પડ્યો. આખો અવતાર મારે ભમવા ડુંગરિયા, જંગલની કુંજકુંજ જોવી ફરી; ભોમિયા ભૂલે એવી ભમવી રે કંદરા,

અંતરની આંખડી લ્હોવી જરી.

- Umashankar Joshi

The poem "ભોમિયા વિના મારે ભમવા’તા ડુંગરા" beautifully captures the essence of nature and solitude. Let's apply the Indian seasonal grid to its interpretation:

ભોમિયા વિના મારે ભમવા’તા ડુંગરા (Bhomiyā vinā māre bhamvā’tā ḍuṅgarā):

    Without the presence of the earthy wanderer (Bhomiya), the hills resonate with solitude.

  This could be associated with any season, suggesting a timeless and eternal connection between nature and solitude.

- જંગલની કુંજકુંજ જોવી હતી (Jaṅgalnī kuñjakuñj jōvī hatī):

   The thickets of the jungle were once seen.

 This might evoke images of the lushness of forests, possibly associated with the monsoon season when jungles are vibrant and full of life.

- સૂના સરવરિયાની સોનેરી પાળે (Sūnā sarvariẏānī sōnērī pāḷē):

   By the golden shore of the silent lake. The serene lake and golden imagery could be related to autumn, where nature often takes on warm and golden hues.

- એકલા આકાશ તળે ઊભીને એકલો (Ēkalā ākāś talē ūbhīnē ēkalō):

    Alone, standing below the solitary sky.

    The sense of aloneness beneath the vast sky could be associated with winter, conveying a feeling of stillness and quietude.

- આખો અવતાર મારે ભમવા ડુંગરિયા (Ākhō avatāra mārē bhamvā ḍuṅgariyā):

  The entire manifestation echoes through the hills.This line signifies a universal presence resonating through the hills, transcending seasons.

In summary, the poem, with its vivid imagery and deep introspection, connects with the universal themes of nature, solitude, and the eternal cycle of existence. While specific seasonal markers are present, the overall essence suggests a timeless connection between the wanderer, nature, and solitude, transcending the limitations of a specific season. (ChatGPT)

Thank you.

For Whom the Bell Tolls by Earnest Hemingway

 Hello,

        This blog is prepared in response to thinking activity on the American novel 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' by Earnest Hemingway. This blog will cover couple of long critical questions from the novel.

Earnest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway was a famous American writer born on July 21, 1899, in Illinois, USA. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954. People liked his writing because it was strong and manly, and he had an exciting life that everyone knew about. His clear and straightforward way of writing had a big impact on American and British stories in the 1900s. He passed away on July 2, 1961, in Idaho. 

Major Works 

The Sun Also Rises (1926)

A Farewell to Arms (1929)

For Whom the Bell Tolls (1940)

The Old Man and The Sea (1952)

A Movable Feast (1964)

Islands in the Stream (1970)

Story Overview

"For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a book written by Ernest Hemingway in 1940. It's about an American teacher named Robert Jordan, who joins a group fighting against the fascists in Spain in 1937. His mission is to connect with a guerrilla group and blow up a bridge to help the good guys. The story happens in just 72 hours at the guerrilla camp. During this time, Jordan falls in love with María, who had a tough time with fascist soldiers. He also becomes friends with the smart but scared guerrilla leader Pablo and his brave wife, Pilar. Jordan succeeds in destroying the bridge, but Pablo, Pilar, María, and two other guerrillas escape. Unfortunately, Jordan gets hurt. He confesses his love to María again, ready to face the enemy troops and certain death.

Title Significance 

The title "For Whom the Bell Tolls" comes from a quote in a meditation by John Donne called "Devotions upon Emergent Occasions," written in 1624. In this meditation, Donne expresses the idea that no one is completely independent, everyone is connected and part of a larger whole. The specific quote goes, "No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main... Any man's death diminishes me because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee." This reflects the interconnectedness of humanity, suggesting that when someone dies, it affects everyone. The tolling of the bell signifies that the loss is shared by all. Hemingway used this powerful idea to convey the themes of sacrifice and the shared human experience in his novel.

Critical analysis of the end part of the novel

In the end, Robert Jordan and his group manage to blow up the bridge they were supposed to destroy. However, it's not a happy ending. They lose important friends like Anselmo and Eladio during the mission, and Pablo kills five others. While escaping, Robert Jordan gets injured on his horse, making his left leg useless. Realizing he would slow down the others, he decides to stay behind. He tells the love of his life Maria to leave him and faces the enemy alone in the forest, waiting for a final confrontation.

The main character, Robert Jordan, follows a familiar pattern in Hemingway's stories, he's tough, leaves his love, and sacrifices himself for his friends. In his final moments, he thinks about his ideal man, his grandfather, and tries to prepare for death and the pain from his injury. However, he acknowledges that he doesn't handle it as well as he had hoped, showing a more human side. Robert Jordan is all by himself dealing with his pain and the fact that he's going to die. Sometimes, it seems like he's just trying to convince himself of things to make a really tough situation a bit easier for himself. It's unclear if he truly believes what he tells Maria – that they are connected and he'll live on through her – or if he just says it so she won't die with him.

At the end of the novel, Robert Jordan undergoes significant changes. He used to question feelings and signs, but now he thinks there might be more to life than just facts. He struggled between his love for Maria and his duty in the war, but in a battle, he embraces Maria, showing he can balance his emotions and responsibilities. As Robert lies on the ground, holding onto the land he loves. He feels a strong connection to nature and the old way of life. This closeness to the earth shows how much he cares about defending his country and the simple way of living.

Robert Jordan as Typical Hemingway Hero

In "For Whom the Bell Tolls," Robert Jordan is like a typical hero in Hemingway's stories. Hemingway's heroes have special qualities that make them stand out, similar to Shakespeare's heroes. These characters are successful in how they act and adjust to the events happening around them. Critics often call Hemingway a skilled writer of tragic heroes because there's a sense of pessimism in his stories. He has a unique way of writing that creates his own style of fiction. Hemingway's stories are known for his heroes facing challenges and not succeeding in the end. Characters like Santiago in "The Old Man and the Sea," Romero in "The Sun Also Rises," and Jordan in "For Whom the Bell Tolls" are good examples of this. They go through tough times and don't achieve what they hoped for in the end.

Robert Jordan as Tragic Hero

In a play or novel, a tragic hero is someone who achieves greatness but ends up paying a personal cost. The tragic death of the hero turns the story into a tragedy, and it's the hero's death that makes the tragedy powerful. The hero does everything for the good of the public and sacrifices himself for his mission. When the hero dies, readers feel sympathy and respect. The impact of the tragedy depends on how big the hero's goal is – the larger the goal, the more significant the tragedy.

In "For Whom the Bell Tolls," Robert Jordan is a character who fights for a cause in a foreign land. He strongly supports the Republican side because he cares deeply for Spain. He believes that if fascists take control of Spain, it would harm the country's future and ruin it. Additionally, he thinks that, despite its imperfections, a republican government is better than a totalitarian one because living under fascism makes individuals feel restricted and suffocated.

This novel is written to test the strength of Jordan's ideals, and the obstacles he faces make up the main story. As the story unfolds, Jordan's mission becomes more complicated. Pablo strongly opposes Jordan's plan, finding it impossible to execute as it would harm the land. Hemingway's heroes are known for their bravery, and Jordan is no exception. He fearlessly takes on the risky task of blowing up the bridge. Hemingway's heroes, like Santiago in "The Old Man and the Sea," Jake Barnes in "The Sun Also Rises," Frederic Henry in "A Farewell to Arms," and Jordan in "For Whom the Bell Tolls," are always willing to face challenges and risks.

Robert Jordan is a character who doesn't worry about his own safety. He willingly takes on the risky task of blowing up the bridge with courage and never shows any fear. Despite General Golz warning him about the tough job, he promises to complete it on time. Despite Pablo's efforts to create obstacles, Pilar's support helps balance the situation. Some critics thought Jordan's love for Maria might hinder his mission, but he doesn't let it bother him. Over time, we see that his love for Maria actually strengthens his determination. He keeps his roles as a lover and a dynamiter separate, although towards the end, they start to blend together.

Critics View: Some critics criticize Jordan, saying he seems unrealistic at times. However, Hemingway's skill in creating characters makes Jordan believable and someone others can look up to. These objections don't last long when we realize that Jordan is fighting against abstract concepts like liberty, equality, people's rights, democracy, and the cruel actions of the fascists.

Actually, he is fervently devoted to his beliefs and fights for a non-religious ideal. A well-known critic rightly mentioned, "He dies for the American dream." He sacrifices for all the underprivileged people globally. It's undeniable that his principles are worth following for people around the world. He stands up for ideas that make sense to most sensible individuals.

Some critics might see Robert Jordan's love for Maria as a flaw, thinking it makes him weaker. However, it's actually a very human quality. His love for Maria is sincere and deep, not like someone who drinks a lot or pursues many relationships. He genuinely wants to be in her heart forever. He shares his philosophy of love with Pilar, saying he loves the good things in life and would only die if absolutely necessary. His love for Maria makes him more passionate about his mission. He's aware of the suffering in the Spanish civil war, especially Maria's terrible experience with the fascists, which motivates him to teach them a lesson by blowing up an important bridge. Elsardo's death affects him deeply, reminding him of the other losses in the war, making him feel very sad and gloomy.

After Maria enters his life, Robert Jordan undergoes a transformation and starts living solely for her. However, it doesn't mean he forgets his sense of duty. His love for Maria and his dangerous mission to blow up the bridge become intertwined because the fascists, by raping Maria, turn his personal feelings into a drive for revenge. This mindset pushes him further into his fight for the Republicans and Republic Spain, with Maria becoming a crucial part of his cause.

Wordcount: 1634

Images used: 2

Refer to this video for further understanding.

 

 Reference

- Pfeiffer, Lee. “For Whom the Bell Tolls | Novel by Hemingway, Summary, & Facts.” Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/topic/For-Whom-the-Bell-Tolls-novel-by-Hemingway. Accessed 25 January 2024.

Thank you.

AMERICAN TRANSCENDENTALISM

Hello readers, 

               

      This blog is crafted as part of thinking activity on American literary movement known as "Transcendentalism".

Here are Some Points to Ponder, 

1) Transcendentalists talk about the Individual’s relation with Nature. What is Nature for you? Share your views.

What is Transcendentalism? 

Simple meaning of transcendentalism is to go above or beyond from normal human experience. 

According to Oxford Dictionary, 'Transcendentalism is a idealistic and philosophical movement which arose in New England, around 1836, this movement was the reaction against rationalism'. 

Transcendentalism movement was influenced by Romanticism of Europe, Platonism and Kantian philosophy. 

According to transcendentalists, an individual is the central figure of this transcendental movement. All the transcendentalists have made emphasis on individual's relationship with transcendental things such as benefit of all natural elements. 

According to Margaret Fuller, 'Self interest may triumph where principles have failed'. Thoreau and Emerson emphasized on the transcendentalist idea of human harmony with nature. They believed that nature can help us improve spiritually and help us connect to the rest of the world. According to Transcendental ideas, everything is connected, everything is one. 

Nature holds a spiritual significance for me. I frequently visit places that bring me a sense of peace. While I may not be deeply religious, I find solace in visiting temples because they provide me with a profound sense of tranquility. There is a temple near my house, surrounded by a beautiful landscape featuring a small pond and numerous geese. I make it a point to visit this place at least once a week to observe and connect with the surroundings. This location provides me with spiritual strength, motivation, and a deep sense of peace. In my view, nature encompasses spiritual dimensions that are personally meaningful to me.

Moreover, Taking morning walks is like a spiritual practice for me. The quiet and fresh air make me feel connected to nature. It's a time to clear my mind, find peace, and start the day with a positive vibe. The simple act of walking becomes a peaceful and grounding experience, bringing a sense of spirituality to my mornings.

2) Transcendentalism is an American philosophy that influenced American literature at length. Can you find any India/regional literature or philosophy that came up with such similar thoughts?

There are philosophical and literary movements that share similarities or have been influenced by similar ideas.

Bengal Renaissance 

The Bengal Renaissance was a period in the 19th and early 20th centuries when people in Bengal, India, worked to bring positive changes in art, culture, science, and society. This happened during British rule. The movement aimed to challenge old traditions controlled by upper-class Brahmins, focusing on issues like women's rights, dowry, caste system, and outdated religious practices. Bengal Renaissance sought to improve society by questioning these practices, and it was influenced by interactions between open-minded British officials, missionaries, and the educated Hindu community.

The Bengal Renaissance and British influence led to significant changes in Bengal's educational system in the 19th century. Educational reforms included the creation of institutions like the Asiatic Society (1784), Fort William College (1800), Serampore College (1817), Hindu College (1817), Sanskrit College (1824), and more. These institutions primarily aimed to educate the elite class Bengalis based on European ideas of education, learning, and values.

 

Main figures of Bengal Renaissance 

1. Raja Ram Mohan Roy

2. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

3. Swami Vivekananda

4. Rabindranath Tagore

5. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay

6. Henry Louis Vivian Derozio

The Bengal Renaissance influenced the British to implement changes in the legal framework of the country. These modifications became the foundation of the legal structure in India. The province of Bengal stood out as a region of stability and peace in the Indian Subcontinent during this period. Additionally, it emerged as a major hub for trade and commerce, attracting Europeans. The flourishing trade and commerce in the province led to conflicts between the English and the French, the two dominant European powers.

As the English ascended as the predominant power in the subcontinent, they introduced the concept of Western education in Bengal. This initiative gave rise to a new intellectual class in the province, fostering social changes. The transformation in society brought about significant shifts.

During that era, Indians actively engaged in the legal profession, serving as vakils, indigenous pleaders, or lawyers educated abroad. The majority of legal offices were managed by Indians, and there were no exclusive reservations for British officials in any positions.

German Romanticism

German Romanticism emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries as a movement fundamentally rebelling against the advancements of material progress and industrialization. The initial movement within the Romantic current, German Romanticism, primarily stood as a rebellion against a rational world driven by material progress and industrialization. Key figures like Novalis and Goethe championed the unknown, the mysterious, and the supernatural. Prioritizing artistic transgression and emotion over reason and beauty, they significantly influenced contemporary art perspectives. German Romanticism, inherently rebellious, is marked by contradictions and paradoxes, reflecting its tumultuous nature.

What is German Romanticism?

German Romanticism emerged as a prevailing intellectual trend in the German-speaking regions in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It marked the inception of the broader Romantic movements that unfolded across Europe during the 19th century. Consequently, German Romanticism laid the foundation for the key characteristics that would define Romanticism as a whole.

Originating as a rebellion against a society undergoing industrialization, German Romanticism was fueled by the belief that modernity was elevating reason over emotion, leading to a devaluation of traditional values and rural ways of life. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there was a surge in capitalist values emphasizing profit and the exploitation of labor, which the Romanticists viewed with disillusionment and disappointment.

Within Romantic ideology, a significant emphasis is placed on the individual and their emotions. The German Romantic movement advocates for a deep connection with nature, a rediscovery of rural settings, and a quest for a bygone, idealized past. Simultaneously, it rejects economic commerce, industrial progress, and urban life, where individuals are reduced to mere statistics. This positions Romanticism as a form of rebellion against the prevailing societal values of its era.

Connection with Nature

Disillusioned with contemporary times and devoid of optimism for an improved future, German Romanticists discovered solace in seeking humanity in the past. The past they yearned for was not necessarily a historical reality but rather an idealized version when humanity existed in harmony and connection with nature. As this idyllic time might have never truly existed, German Romanticists often yearned for something indefinable. Therefore, a profound longing for an unknown or unattainable essence stands out as a crucial characteristic of German Romanticism.

Nature symbolized calm and tranquility, representing a time when people were not restricted by the pressures of capitalism and its rules. Being in nature allowed one to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, find solitude, and be in harmony with oneself.

The Great Lawsuit: Man vs Man and Woman vs Woman

Margaret Fuller was an American critic, writer and women's right activist, who influenced many of her contemporaries. She was major figure in 19th century American feminism, and the essay The Great Lawsuit which published in July, 1943 made emphasis on the role of women within the society. This work by Fuller stood as epitome in American feminism. Later, this essay was extended in book named 'Women in the Nineteenth Century'. This essay was first published in "The Dial", a philosophical journal launched by transcendentalist. Fuller was also an editor of this journal during 1840 to 1842.

This essay stands for women's right in within the society. This essay contributes not only to women but men also, there are some arguments for men. Fuller emphasized on women's education, ' we must have units before we can have unions'. 

At the core of Fuller's thoughts was the refusal to accept society's limited definitions of femininity and masculinity. She delved into the idea of a transcendent blending of male and female characteristics within each person. Fuller argued that individuals, regardless of gender, harbored a range of qualities and abilities. According to her, genuine fulfillment could only be attained by welcoming and harmonizing these varied aspects.

"There is no wholly masculine man, no purely feminine woman"

Core of the Essay

The Great Lawsuit represent humanity's journey through time, with various outcome and struggles. The notion of a continuous and divine revelation, the pursuit of perfection and varying perspective to attain it through life experience, intellect or quite obedience are the central aim of the essay. 

In the end, Fuller said it's important for women to be themselves, follow their passions, and be active members of society. She believed that both men and women have valuable qualities, and true happiness comes from embracing and combining these qualities. Fuller's ideas paved the way for future thinking about women's rights and actions to support them.

More about essay,  

References

Chakraborty, Aishik, and Rahul Purkayastha. “(PDF) BENGAL RENAISSANCE AND ITS IMPACT ON THE COMMON LAW SYSTEM.” ResearchGate, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343932883_BENGAL_RENAISSANCE_AND_ITS_IMPACT_ON_THE_COMMON_LAW_SYSTEM. Accessed 23 January 2024.

Silva, Eva. “German Romanticism: A Revolt Against Capitalism and Progress.” TheCollector, 19 May 2022, https://www.thecollector.com/german-romanticism-revolt-against-capitalism/. Accessed 23 January 2024.

Wordcount: 1528

Images used: 2

Video: 1

Thank you.

Movie Review: 12th Fail

Thinking Task

This blog will showcase the movie review and comparative study of 2023 movie "12th Fail".

Overview of the Movie

The film chronicles the life journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a determined young man hailing from Chambal, with aspirations of cracking the UPSC exam and realizing his dream of becoming an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. Inspired by the real-life IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame academic challenges as a 12th-grade dropout, the movie portrays his relentless pursuit of success. Despite facing numerous setbacks and academic hardships, Manoj ultimately triumphs in achieving his goal of becoming an IPS officer.

Release Date: 27 October, 2023

Written & Director: Vidhu Vinod Chora

Based on: "12th Fail" Book by Anurag Pathak (2019) 

Cast: Vikran Massey, Medha Shankar, Ananat Joshi, Anshuman Pushkar. 

 Frame Study of Movie

The film begins with a scene in which Manoj is creating cheat notes for his 12th-grade examination, followed by the issuance of his father's suspension order. This movie addresses issues within the Indian education system and corruption within various government institutions. Manoj's father becomes a target of this entrenched corruption network. He faced suspension because he refused to participate in their corrupt practices.

However, his father rebelled against the authorities and is portrayed as a resilient character who doesn't lose hope. He took the matter to the high court, but, as is often the case for individuals from humble backgrounds, his father's voice went unheard by those in power.

The movie's backdrop, featuring Manoj's village and his journey, persuades us that he is genuinely a deserving candidate for the IPS. In this particular scene, the film highlights a corrupt regime orchestrated by the Vidhayak (MLA). It exposes how even powerful authorities, such as the police, are mere puppets under the control of the Vidhayak.

This scene in the movie is quite ironic. Cheating is considered normal during examinations, and it is even condoned by the principal. The saying written outside the class contradicts the actual practices within the classroom.

In this particular scene, Manoj learns about the challenging nature of the UPSC exam from a fellow aspirant named Gauri Bhaiya. Gauri Bhaiya metaphorically describes UPSC as a game of snakes and ladders, guiding and helping other aspirants in their preparation for the examination. He emphasizes the daunting reality that only 20 to 25 individuals out of the aspirants succeed in becoming IPS officers, while the rest are compelled to restart their journey.

This scene underscores the prevalence of exhibitionism and marketing tactics within coaching classes. The coaching staff consistently highlights the success stories of students, claiming that all of them cleared the UPSC mains exam through their coaching program. However, the reality is different. Students were being compensated by the coaching classes, and in return, they allowed the classes to use their names however they pleased for marketing purposes.

Comment Upon Education System

In today's context, education appears to prioritize exam success and rewards over genuine learning. For those in the middle and lower-middle classes, education is often viewed as a means to secure employment and livelihood. In the film "12th Fail," Manoj, hailing from a humble background, leverages education to elevate his social standing, steering clear of a life of manual labor in the fields. The education system should not solely revolve around financial gains; instead, it should aim to nurture students into healthy, responsible citizens.

The portrayal of the education system in the movie is stark and unsettling, depicting instances where students seek assistance from their teachers to pass the 12th board exams. This underscores the alarming state of the education sector, especially prevalent in remote villages where such issues are widespread. Additionally, corruption has infiltrated the education system, a concerning development given that education should be safeguarded from such malpractices.

Education has changed. Now, it's more about passing tests and getting rewards than actually learning interesting things. People focus on exams for financial security instead of exploring different subjects. The joy of learning takes a backseat, and choosing subjects is more about getting a good job than enjoying the topic. Even in top schools, the focus has shifted from understanding things to making money quickly after graduation.

Symbol of Atta Chakki

The flour mill serves as a symbolic representation in the movie, highlighting Manoj's ongoing battle between his aspirations and his everyday reality. Faced with financial constraints that hinder his ability to afford coaching fees, Manoj adopts a rigorous routine. He works at the flour mill during the day to cover his expenses and dedicates his nights to exam preparation. The atta chakki thus becomes a metaphor for Manoj's relentless hard work and unwavering commitment to achieving his dream of becoming an IPS officer.

Contextualization 

The film primarily addresses the flaws in the Indian education system, emphasizing the prevalent obsession with securing government jobs. In contemporary society, the predominant goal of many aspiring youth is to secure a government position, often disregarding the salary's nominal value. The storyline progresses to Delhi, the epicenter of UPSC exam preparation centers, where thousands of students relentlessly strive for success in civil services. The harsh reality becomes evident as not everyone manages to pass the exam and attain an officer position.

This reality is portrayed through characters like Pandey and Gauri Bhaiya, both of whom put in significant effort but fall short of passing the examination. Gauri Bhaiya's case is particularly poignant; despite successfully navigating the preliminary and main exams, he fails to crack the interview in his last attempt. In addition to narrating Manoj's inspirational journey, the movie sheds light on the flip side of such examinations, revealing the challenges and disappointments faced by individuals like Pandey and Gauri Bhaiya.

This film captures the prevailing aspiration among today's youth to become an IAS or IPS officer, encapsulating the current essence of their ambitions.

Thematic Study

The movie revolves around a person's personal victory despite facing many challenges. It highlights the lack of support from teachers and the education system for these students. Unfortunately, there's still a belief in society that students from marginalized or poor backgrounds aren't meant to succeed academically. These students often encounter social and financial obstacles on their path to success. The movie also shows some problems within the education system, such as the dominance of the English language and the widespread issue of cheating in board examinations.

Comparative Study

Many modern web series and movies share similarities with the mentioned film. For example, a popular web series called 'Aspirants' by TVF, released in 2021, also follows characters facing personal challenges while preparing for the UPSC exam. The movie '12th Fail' exists in the shadow of TVF's 'Aspirants,' but it differs in exploring the motivations of its characters. While 'Aspirants' delves deep into character motivations, the supporting characters in '12th Fail' may feel more stereotypical.

We can also draw a comparison with the movie "Super 30," which focuses on how the caste or class system influences education. This biographical drama not only celebrates academic excellence but also highlights the powerful impact education can have in shaping destinies. The film stars Hrithik Roshan in the lead role.

Conclusion

At the end, the movie shows that Manoj Kumar Sharma never gave up. Even when school was tough and things didn't go well, he kept trying. Finally, he became an IPS officer, and the movie is like saying, 

"If you keep going and don't give up, you can make your dreams come true."

Wordcount - 1238

Images used - 10

References

- Bhardwaj, Kartik. “'12th fail' movie review: Too long a ted talk.” The New Indian Express, 28 October 2023, https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/review/2023/Oct/28/12th-fail-movie-review-too-long-a-ted-talk-2627608.html. 

- Barad, Dilip, and Saurabh Khanna. “(PDF) The Changing Priorities of Education in India: A Worrisome Shift Mirrored in Popular Films and Fictions.” ResearchGate, 16 November 2023, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375641812_The_Changing_Priorities_of_Education_in_India_A_Worrisome_Shift_Mirrored_in_Popular_Films_and_Fictions. Accessed 19 January 2024.

- Kumar, Anuj. “'12th Fail' movie review: Vidhu Vinod Chopra delivers yet another hug of hope that is more earnest than magical.” The Hindu, 26 October 2023, https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/12th-fail-movie-review-vidhu-vinod-chopra-delivers-yet-another-hug-of-hope-that-is-more-earnest-than-magical/article67460764.ece. Accessed 19 January 2024.

- Sadana, Abha. “Decoding 12th Fail: The Role Of Teachers | Opinion News.” Times Now, 20 January 2024, https://www.timesnownews.com/opinion/decoding-12th-fail-the-role-of-teachers-article-107018180. Accessed 21 January 2024.