Microsofts Products, Domination, Development, Innovations Research Paper

Microsofts Products, Domination, Development, Innovations - Research Paper Example There has been a rapid growth in the number of products Microsoft manufacture. Microsoft released its first operating system. (Cusumano, Selby 1995). It became a massive success, after which the company started to develop. Since then Microsoft continued to hold the best position in the industry. After its invention of the operating system, there was a huge expectation form the other companies. Microsoft developed many new software components other than operating systems. The company started to expand its operations and widened its manufacturing area. It introduced software, without which most of the computers will not work today. The essential software was developed by Microsoft. It had developed a website, MSN which is widely being used. (Stross 1996).According to a survey, this website is the second in the list of sites that have been used frequently. Due to its innovative approach, it out beats the other The products of Microsoft are popular because of its simplicity in terms of usage. People find it easier to use and hence it is user-friendly. Microsoft's search engine, MSN is one among the websites that are being used by most of the people. Though there was a tough competition, Microsoft strived hard to become the best software developers. Microsoft is maintaining a dominant position in the software market as their products continue to rule the market in spite of tough competition. Other companies in the software market consider Microsoft as their major competitor. Microsoft started acquiring other firms and developed their operations. As the company's products are famous, the turnover of the company started to increase. One of the major inventions of Microsoft is the Microsoft Office suite. This turned out to be a huge success. (White, Bruton 2007).

Christopher Columbus Essay Example for Free

Christopher Columbus Essay Christopher Columbus wrote a letter to the king and queen of Spain around 1494. He gave the king a queen a description of what was going on and what he had found. He wrote this letter stating that there was riches and many land for colonies. He was telling them what they can do with this land that he had found. Take it, build a government, and he wanted more ships for his up coming voyages. The question is this document relevant to his voyages, yes, indeed they do. He wrote to the king and queen what they can do in this land that he had found. He was already planing there government, and how they were going to rule the land. He explained how they should have churches and start converting the indians. When the gold rush comes they should have the people who are getting the gold must have a license to retrieve some gold. He talks about governors and how there should be one on every island that he had discovered and how they were going to be in charge. He wanted to start these settlements and let them grow and then that would make Spain the greatest empire in the world because they would have the biggest land mass. He did do the mission for Spain but more for himself and it was his job to do this kind of adventuring. He wanted to make history and this document shows what he had discovered and his proposal to the king and queen of what he thought the colonies should be run and so on. This absolutely has to be apart of a the voyage with Christopher Columbus because it tells a little bit of what he saw, what he knows and what his plans were. He tells about all these riches and gold and how they can make the colonies work and survive and build communities. It gives an idea of what he thought and what he had believed should have happened, which for the most part did happen. He was a very bright man I assume by this letter to the king and queen and he explained his plans very well and the king and queen should have been pleased of Christopher for making all of that happen. With out this it would be like missing a piece of a puzzle. Questions with out full knowledge of what was going on. Christopher started his journey around 1492, I think, and it took him a couple years to discover this land mass and he was eventually a hero to Spain. Without Christopher discovery of the Americas people would have come and settled in the Americas later than they did and he wouldn’t be famous.

The Metamorphosis :: essays papers

The Metamorphosis The introduction gets the readers attention because of its plot movement and extreme details. This particular introduction, unlike most other works contains the climax to the story. This paper will show the importance of these introductory lines. â€Å"When Gregor Samsa woke up one morning from unsettling dreams, he found himself changed into a monstrous vermin.† This line greatly moves the plot, more so than any other line. It is the climax of the novel, and everything following it helps build the conclusion of the story. The juxtaposition of â€Å"unsettling† and â€Å"dreams† is ironic, as dreams are peaceful and never unsettling, only nightmares are unsettling. Gregor has transformed into a â€Å"monstrous vermin.† The remainder of the first paragraph gives details of exactly what the monstrous vermin is. His back is as â€Å"hard as an armor plate†. This metaphor shows the rigidity of his body. Gregor’s body has â€Å"arch shaped, a vaulted brown belly, and many legs.† As a result of this, he does not even know who or what he is. â€Å"What’s happened to me?† He knew it was not a dream. Kafka blends a short sentence about the realization that it is no longer a dream into a paragraph of long sentences to show how the idea of being a dream is chimerical. His room is still a â€Å"regular human room.† In his room are lines of fabric samples, because he is a traveling salesman. Gregor had a picture hanging on his desk. It â€Å"showed a lady done up in a fur hat and a fur boa.† This picture, and the mention of him being a traveling salesman, show the extravagance of his family, while he is a common worker. The weather is overcast, a symbol of Gregor’s despair. He looks out the window, in search of answers to his unanswered questions. He could hear the raindrops and was completely depressed. His depression portrays his feeling that he has no control over the future. He even has no control over himself. â€Å"In his present state, he could not get into that position. No matter how hard he threw himself onto his right side, he always rocked onto his back again.† Kafka beautifully incorporates the climax into the introduction of his story in order to deeply involve the reader in the story.

Toyota’s marketing strategy & practice

The total market capitalization is $507B. In terms of price performance, TATA Inc has shown the most impressive percentage change. They recorded a 2.2% increase while Daimterchryster showed a 0.25% increase. Honda co lagged behind the list of top performers with 0.13%. The lowest performers were Ford Co, Chicago, Toyota and Gen Motors with performance changes of –2.3%, 0.9%, 0.13% and 0.12% respectively. There has been a decline in the industrial gearing levels. This is because the firms are using less of debt than equity itself to finance its operations. However there is an improvement in the industrial Net Profit Margin Ratio. This can be attributed to favourable fiscal legislations, sound production and marketing strategies and technological advancement that has led to low manufacturing and selling costs. There has been a tremendous growth in market capitalization. Assuming that the market price per share was at a constant level, such growth would be attributed by a positive investor reaction/ confidence in the sector. KEY COMPETITORS Honda motors Tata motor company Ford motor company Daimlerchrysler Inc The automobile motor industry has been experiencing a fast growth. The decline in the average industrial gearing ratio sends positive signals to potential investors since it suggests low financial risk. The firms would also be able to borrow more from external sources without adversely affecting their liquidity. Tremendous improvements on profit may however attract new entrants into the industry thus diluting the market powers/ shares of the incumbents. MARKETING MIX PRODUCT MIX Toyota plc manufactures a wide range of vehicle brands. These include Hilux, Prius, RAV 4, Avents, Amazon among others. The company also specializes in the manufacture and sale of robots and heavy self propelling machines like tractors. They also offer consultation services on motor manufacture and design. Toyota sells its products to the US, Europe and Africa.PROMOTION Toyota uses a vast range of marketing strategies to market its fleet of products. These include the internet (website), radio and television. Others include magazines, billboards and also through trade exhibitions usually held at its points of sale. Public relations is also adopted by the company for instance through press releases and conferences. It also accomplishes this by sponsoring of clubs and other associations who use the company’s logo in their sportswears. The company also indulges in sales promotions where vehicles are freely offered with a view to attract more customers in the long- term. PRICE In order to arrive at the price at which to offer for sale for its products, Toyota considers quite a number of significant factors. These are:- The cost and availability of materials needed in the manufacturing process. Labor costs for all the staff i.e. production, assembly, marketing and top directors. Distribution costs i.e. costs associated with the final delivery of goods/ products to their customers. To avoid understanding their manufacturing costs, overheads are absorbed and allocated into the cost units. And using a given mark-up normally determined by the management, the price is determined. The company also does price discrimination as a marketing strategy. Prices vary depending on the financial capability of the respective customers. Price also varies with seasons with high prices being charged during the boom period and low prices during the recessionary economic conditions. Price also varies depending on the mode of payment whether cash or hire purchase. PLACEMENT/ DISTRIBUTION The company’s headquarters are based in the UK. It has many distribution centers worldwide. This is important for Toyota as it enables their products closer to the customers. The Company’s employee workforce approximates 3700.The team comprises of highly competent staff who are both motivated and committed to the achievement of the overall objectives of the firm. The firm has a sufficient mechanism of processing customer’s orders as and when required, at times online. Inventory is properly managed by keeping optimum inventory levels. This maintains both the ordering and holding costs at a minimum. INTERNAL MARKET STRATEGY The host Country for the firm to enter shall be France. France is well known for the manufacture and sale of highly merchandised Peugeot cars through PSA Peugeot inc.It is rich in technology and becoming a partner with a company from such a state would give Toyota economies of scale advantages. The country enjoys a central location and would serve as the most appropriate distribution center. MODE OF ENTRY Toyota shall liase with PSA Peugeot through strategic partnership. This would be the most ideal because profits and losses would be shared at an agreed proportion between the two partner companies. Partnership also gives the company(s) taxation advantages since dividends would not be subjected to taxation. Partnerships are also easy to initiate compared to other modes that are characterized by complicated legal procedures and conformation with International Financial Reporting Standards. With partnership, it is easy to incorporate as many new entrants in the long run so long as they are limited to 20. REFERENCE http://biz.yahoo.com/ic Read also: Reed Supermarkets: a New Wave of Competitors

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind Essay

Many people believe that â€Å"A healthy body makes a healthy mind†. I hesitate on the word â€Å"make† — Assuming a healthy mind means something like integrity, happiness and optimistic attitude, I believe that people who have a healthy body usually also have a healthy mind, but a healthy body is not necessarily for a healthy mind. The players in professional sports leagues are probably the most physically healthy people in the world; however it’s not uncommon to hear news of their troubles, such as crimes or family violences. A healthy body shares some common causes with a healthy mind. The process of pursuing a healthy body requires good discipline. It’s easy to exercise for one day, but one must endeavor to keep exercising to stay in a physically healthy condition. Long distance running is a well known way of having a healthy body. To prepare to run a full marathon, one has to repeat many moderate or long distance running practices. It’s such a painful process that one likely to give up if he/she doesn’t have strong will power. If a person has such will power, it’s no surprise that this person can be successful at other things. A person achieves many life goals is likely to have a healthy mind. A healthy body can be a factor of a healthy mind: physically healthy people usually have more energy to work on things they care about, therefore have a better chance to enjoy their lives. In contrast, physically unhealthy people may be disturbed by their health issues. Their concerns can distract them from doing things that would make them happy. A scientific study also tried to discover the secret relation between exercise and the mind. Scientists found a chemical substance called endorphins [1], which can be reproduced by human body during exercise, excitement, spicy food tasting, etc. It can interact with some other substances in the human body to generate a feeling of well-being. A well-known effect of endorphins is â€Å"runners high,† which is said to occur when people exercise so strenuously that their bodies reach the threshold of endorphin release. Scientists are still not sure of the amount of endorphins the human body can generate or how much it impacts a human’s mind. But at least most of the running enthusiasts I know are all very nice people. The ex-Google VP, the founder of Google China, a role model of many Chinese  young students and entrepreneurs, Kaifu Lee, was recently diagnosed with cancer. He said he should have spent less time on work and more time on doing things that would have kept him healthy, especially sufficient sleep and exercise. This tells us that at the end of the day, fame and wealthy will not make people happy if they don’t have a healthy body. We should get away from the chair and the computer some time everyday to exercise. It might not make us better people, but it’ll make us lead longer and happier life.

buy custom “Disgrace” by J.M. Coetzee essay

buy custom â€Å"Disgrace† by J.M. Coetzee essay Disgrace was written by J.M. Coetzee. Coetzee in his book indicates that political change can never do away with despair. The book continues to assert that political change re-introduces misery to the people. The book has been set with South African post-apartheid background. Political and historical forces have been associated with unpleasant experiences in the civilians with a sequence of destructions. My first response to the novel reflected on violence and lawlessness. The mentioning of the politics, I associate with gaining authority or power. This does not come easily and involves clashing of opinions at times leading to violence. Politics is often associated with acts of aggression. This is evident especially in the developing countries. Nations have been shattered as a result of political changes. The typical examples are; Rwanda, Congo, Somalia, Algeria, Iraq, Syria and Korea among many countries. There are various, striking parts of the story. The scene of Michael a Cape Town gardener breaking down to nothing was disturbing. The man finds himself in artificial acceptance of death and life realities. Professor David Lurie a protagonist finds himself in the misery too. Professor David accepts the realties and moves on with life. This Cleary shows how politics can shutter the lives of ordinary citizens and senior citizens. The book continues to state that Life in South Africa portrays brutal dictatorship where threats of punishments and violence are the order of the day; this has been replaced by brutal anarchy indicating a failed government. This is another striking feature. The writer of the book exploits the failures of many states. There are a couple of questions that have run in my mind as I read this story. The first question is: were there no people who could portray leadership? The second question is: were there no human rights bodies? I have found myself intrigued with the character of Professor David Lurie. Im left wondering how an educated person with substantial brains could have found himself entangled in the political failure. He could have led as an example. David escaped Cape Town in disgrace. Coetzee has the message of never give up. The book continues to assert that human beings must never let their self-esteem be disgraced to that of a dog. Professor David let the world desert him by moving to the countryside and living with the lesbian lady. He was also involved in a school sexual assault case. This is nott the way to life. The book keeps on demanding the changes that lead to growth and not destruction. The overall message Coetzee is reflecting; that people to watch out their conducts and live a holy life. Professor David was divorced at an age of fifty two. He was involved in a number of illegal sexual cases that led to his disgrace. The book continues to state that stigma is engraved in the minds. The qualities we portray are a reflection of the thinking. There is the need to think in the right direction. Coetzee in my opinion does not offer a hopeful vision in the change. The Book shows a number of disreputable characters; David, Lucy, Melanie and the veterinary attendee who kills the animals in a loving manner. This indicates how the society is immoral and changing is difficult. The book continues to show how human life is reduced to that of animal. The message of Coetzee is particularly sobering. It is depressing reflecting on the future of South Africa. The human life is reduced to that of animal. The down of David indicates the unbearable circumstances of countries caught in the political chaotic due to racial oppression. This is expressed when David finds himself in trouble with the language. Buy custom â€Å"Disgrace† by J.M. Coetzee essay

What to Wear to Baccalaureate and Graduation

What to Wear to Baccalaureate and Graduation Are you looking forward to a graduation,  baccalaureate, a  senior recital  or white coat ceremony? If you are, what to wear to such an important and celebratory event may be something you are wondering about. Should you dress up? Go more casual? Plan for cool or warm weather? Do men need ties? Do women wear heels? Any and all of these milestone events are great photo opportunities for families. With brothers, sisters, grandparents and other extended family members in attendance, getting a good picture is always a good idea at gatherings like these. What you wear could be on display on the fireplace mantel for years to come - but dont just dress for a photo. You want to be comfortable, too. Consider the school that your graduate attends. Some colleges and universities are much more low key when it comes to pomp and circumstance than others. While the day may be a momentous one, the fashion doesnt necessarily reflect the significance of the achievement. If your graduate attends school someplace thats very warm - Arizona, for example - being comfortable in the blazing sun and heat will be more important than looking dressed to the hilt. At more conservative schools, like those that are church-based, your clothing choice should be a little more subdued and refined.    Baccalaureate Baccalaureate ceremonies are usually held in the campus chapel or another indoor venue, so the weather and walking surface shouldnt be an issue. While baccalaureate tends to be a bit dressier than the larger graduation ceremonies, that doesnt mean you have to wear high heels or a suit and tie. Dress as you would to attend a religious service for a special occasion, avoiding sneakers, flip flops, tank tops and other casual attire. Graduation Graduation ceremonies offer significant climate challenges when theyre held outdoors. There may be hours of blazing sun, gusty winds or inclement weather, so its important to dress in layers, pack all those graduation survival essentials and adjust your wardrobe to something realistic. You may have to hike a considerable distance from your parking spot, or traverse the football field to reach a seat, heels sinking into the turf at every step. Sitting in the unrelenting sun or drizzle for hours is tough even in comfortable clothes. So check out the logistics and weather report, and make your fashion decisions accordingly. A summer dress will look just as lovely with flats. A jacket and tie can be donned after the ceremony or skipped altogether. If the ceremony is being held indoors, weather wont be an issue, of course, but the trek from the parking lot is still an issue, and gyms and auditoriums can be drafty. Bring a light jacket or shawl. White Coat Ceremony This formal ceremony marks a major rite of passage as medical or pharmaceutical students receive their first, official white coats. Parents are invited, officials make speeches, and flashbulbs pop and flare. Its a big deal. Youll want to dress accordingly - in conservative suits, dresses or business wear - and bring your camera. Senior Recitals Music majors celebrate the end of their four years of study with a senior recital that showcases their work. Its an important concert and one that typically features ensembles large and small. The concert is attended by fellow students and faculty, as well as extended family, friends and former music teachers.  Musicians may wear a considerably more casual version of their usual concert attire, although the starring senior tends to wear something much more extravagant than their usual attire. Attendees can dress on the more casual side if they like, but within reason and with respect for the performers.   As for parents, baccalaureate-style attire is appropriate, but its also fine to wear something slightly less formal, especially if it has artistic style. You might not wear a fabulous, colorful kimono-style jacket to a church ceremony, for example, but its perfect for a concert. That said, basic black is always chic too. Bear in mind that most parents host a post-concert reception. Unless youre having that catered, youre going to be doing significant pre-concert shlepping - moving tables, lugging crates and laying out trays of finger foods.      Updated by Sharon Greenthal

Quotes From the Louisa Ma Alcott Novel Little Women

Quotes From the Louisa Ma Alcott Novel Little Women Little Women is a classic novel by Louisa May Alcott. Based on her own experiences growing up with three sisters, the novel is Alcotts best-known works  and presents many of her personal viewpoints. This novel is something of a conundrum for feminist scholars because while it portrays a strong female heroine (Jo March, an analog for Alcott herself), the ideals of hard work and sacrifice and the ultimate goal of marriage seem to stymie true individual rebellion from any of the March sisters.   Here are  a few of the quotes that show the contradictions in the themes of independence and feminism in Little Women.   March Familys Money Problems Christmas wont be Christmas without any presents. Jo March. Right out of the gate, Alcott shows the March family’s precarious financial situation  and gives a glimpse into each of the sisters’ personalities. The only one who doesn’t complain about the lack of Christmas gifts is Beth (spoiler alert: much later in the novel, Beth dies, giving readers a mixed message about the virtues of sacrifice).   None of Alcotts characters ever raise the question of why Mr. March keeps returning to his post as a war chaplain even though his wife and daughters are close to destitute. Virtue and Pride in Little Women Alcott had strong, unyielding views on proper behavior. Im not Meg tonight, Im a doll who does all sorts of crazy things. Tomorrow I shall put away my fuss and feathers and be desperately good again. Megs wealthy friends dress her up to attend a ball, she flirts and drinks champagne. When Laurie sees her he expresses his disapproval. She tells him to lighten up, but later feels ashamed and confesses to her mother that she behaved badly A poor girl getting to enjoy a party hardly seems like the worst possible behavior, but the moral code of Alcotts novel is strict. Marriage in Little Women The reality for women in the 19th century who were not wealthy was either marry a wealthy man or work as a governess or teacher to support their parents. Despite her somewhat radical feminist views, Alcotts characters do little to deviate from this norm in the end.   Money is a needful and precious thing,and, when well used, a noble thing,but I never want you to think it is the first or only prize to strive for. Id rather see you poor mens wives, if you were happy, beloved, contented than queens on thrones, without self-respect and peace. -Marmee. The March sisters mother seems to be telling her daughters not to marry for the sake of money or status  but doesn’t suggest that there’s any alternative to marriage.  If this is a feminist message, it’s a seriously dated and confused one.   You have grown abominably lazy, and you like gossip, and waste time on frivolous things, you are contented to be petted and admired by silly people, instead of being loved and respected by wise ones. Amy lets Laurie have it, and this moment of brutal honesty is the beginning of their romantic relationship. Of course, Laurie is still pining over Jo at this point, but Amy’s words seem to straighten him out. This is sort of a pivotal quote from â€Å"Little Women,† because it reflects Alcott’s personal views about vanity, gossip and the like.   Trying to Tame Jo March Much of Little Women is spent describing how Jos stubborn, headstrong behavior needs to be subdued.   Ill try and be what he loves to call me, a little woman, and not be rough and wild; but do my duty here instead of wanting to be somewhere else. - Jo March. Poor Jo has to suppress her natural personality (or try to) in order to please her parents. It’s easy to infer that Alcott may have been projecting a little bit here; her father, Branson Alcott, was a transcendentalist and preached strict Protestant values to his four daughters.   An old maid, thats what Im to be. A literary spinster, with a pen for a spouse, a family of stories for children, and twenty years hence a morsel of fame, perhaps... Jo says it, but this is yet another example of Alcott’s voice coming through her main protagonist. Some literary scholars have interpreted this and some of Jo’s other â€Å"tomboyish† points of view to indicate a homosexual subtext, which would have been taboo for a novel of this era. But in another instance Jo laments Meg’s impending marriage, saying: â€Å"I just wish I could marry Meg myself and keep her safe in the family.† Whether intended or not, to a modern reader, Jo’s personality and resistance to being paired with a man (at least in the early chapters) do indicate the possibility that she was uncertain about her sexuality.

Strategy evaluation for barclays Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Strategy evaluation for barclays - Essay Example The present strategy of Barclays bank was effective because it led to a statutory increase of its income to  £11,461 in the year 2013 which is given in figure 3. The profit of the bank also increased to  £2868 in the same year compared to 2012 in which its gain was only  £ 797. The suitability of the strategy adopted by the bank by transforming its plan in order to convert it into ‘Go-To’ financial institution reaped huge benefits. The balance sheet of the company strengthened and its operations became efficient. Its core franchises like UK retail, Corporate and Investment banking witnessed sufficient growth. A look at the share price of Barclays bank in figure 4 highlights that the turnaround plan was successful in improving the performance of the company. However, the executive chairperson of the bank McFarlane opined that there are certain pitfalls in its strategy implementation that needs to be mitigated in order to accelerate its progress. The strategic positi on of Barclays bank illustrated in figure 5 reveals that in terms of leadership, it occupies the highest position but HSBC is far ahead in terms of status. Other banks like Standard Chartered and RBS have succeeded in engagement more than Barclays bank. However, Barclays need to move its position in the engagement quadrant in order to compete with its rivals. Out of all the alternatives, the bank has selected the second one by serving its products in different countries in order to create its presence internationally.

EFT4 task 5 SUBDOMAIN 602.4 - SUBJECT-SPECIFIC TEACHING METHODS Essay

EFT4 task 5 SUBDOMAIN 602.4 - SUBJECT-SPECIFIC TEACHING METHODS (ELEMENTARY) - Essay Example Students are asked to change the two dimensional objects into the three dimension objects. A cube is formed from six faces with identical squares, which are joined by their edges. A vertex is formed by joining of the three edges at the each corner. This cube is too known as the regular hexahedron. The cube is very common 3-D (three-dimensional) object. The shape is displayed in the figure below. For understanding the concept of finding the surface area of a cube in grade 5 and 6, there is need to educate the students in a logical and more practical manners (Mighty students, 2010). The use of real time practical examples can help the students of this age to get better understanding of the concept of surface area of a cube. According to McDoniel (2008) the topic relates to the understanding the surface area of a cube. The author also describes the methods for making the concepts for the students of grade 5 and 6 through the use of real world practical examples. There are some prerequisite skills, which are necessary for getting better knowledge about the concept of surface area of a cube. These important requirements are as follows: The students must be familiar with cubic shape items. For making cube shape things like a bin, student must make square shape pieces. This concept is based on the turning two-dimensional squares into three-dimensional cubes. When students are asked to make a cube shape bin, for this task they must cut the square shaped six pieces and all these six pieces must be of same size. This concept relates with the cubes. After having six same sizes square pieces combine them together to make cube shape of a bin. From this the surface of a cube is calculated by using the above formula of SA= 6 * a2 (The World of Math online, 2005). To determine the exterior surface are of a cube there is need to find the height, width and depth. A cube has six faces and three- dimensions. All faces of a cube item are shaped as square.

Personal experience with mental illness and treatment Essay

Personal experience with mental illness and treatment - Essay Example As a young baby, he seldom played with any of us, and preferred to play with his toys. None of us thought anything of it. When he turned 3, and still didn’t utter a single word, our parents became concerned and consulted a few doctors and psychotherapists. Initially my brother was misdiagnosed with Down’s syndrome. A chromosomal disorder, in which individuals range from mild to profoundly mentally disabled. His speech therapy started when he was 3 years old with minimum results and no results whatsoever in trying to get him to socialize with other children. Our parents thought the doctors were not doing their job properly and kept changing schools and doctors, speech therapists and other professionals. People who came in contact with my brother did not realize he had some sort of disability till they tried to interact with him. After which they tried to socialize but getting no response from my brother, left him alone. We continued to treat him according to what the doctor initially diagnosed as Down’s syndrome, not understanding why he wouldn’t talk and why he wouldn’t socialize. It is characteristic of a Down’s syndrome child to be friendly, and have some form of speech, where as my brother had very limited, 2-3 word sentence speech and hardly any friends. He was most friendly with his nanny and both me and my elder sister, and managed to communicate with us. Mostly the speech therapy sessions were very discouraging and had no results to show. My brother refused to interact with the therapist and every kind of therapy he tried, ended in vain. On a conference on autism and its types, I went through the symptoms of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and realized my brother did not have Down’s syndrome, but Autism. This explained all his primary behaviors, which were all characteristic of ASD, such as not having developed

Epicurus and epictetus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Epicurus and epictetus - Essay Example Essentially, these great scholars of philosophy had different consolation on the reasons for valuing and giving meaning to life (Pojman 530). Therefore, this essay will delve on two Greek philosophers, Epictetus and Epicurus, to try to understand their ideologies regarding the importance of living life without having to worry about the occurrence of death. 2. Epicurus According to ancient philosophy, Epicurus was an ancient philosopher that lived between two hundred and seventy one and three hundred and forty one B.C. He founded his school of philosophy in Athens where he spent most of his life. Epicurus was a philosopher who related the aspect of pleasure with good and the aspect of bad with pain concerning living. This concept became Hedonism, a Greek word meaning pleasure. For Epicurus, being sensuous and exalting life did not quantify for Epicureanism to form an opinion on the views of living. However, Epicurus was of the belief that a pleasurable life came from having calm emoti ons through the appreciation of honest but beautiful pleasantries of life. These pleasures include the good company of friends, a healthy diet, morally upright behavior, and good personal health. Epicurus insisted that people were not to worry about death, but only had to concern themselves with pleasure and pain (Pojman 531). Therefore, Epicurus believed that death was not a feeling hence advising people not to be fearful of death. Ideally, this Epicurus was an ardent believer in the doctrines of philosophy because to him philosophy was a constant factor in the life of any individual. Further, Epicurus felt that people needed to focus on the aspects of life that made them happy as part of living a fulfilled life. However, this Epicurus had a queer belief in matters related to God and other gods, but he acknowledged their existence. In essence, Epicurus believed that these higher deities received much accreditation for what they truly were not. For him, ill fate befell those that li ved wicked lives and blessings followed those that did well hence questioning the credibility of gods being the source of either blessings or curses. 2.2 Epicurus and his argument on death Arguably, Epicurus advised people to believe that death was nothing to them because it was a way of depriving human beings off sensation. In this regard, the understanding of death as nothing of concern influenced living life enjoyably because one lived without needing to be immortal. According to his philosophy, Epicurus encouraged people not to live in anticipation of the pain that would come together with death because this feeling would make them cower towards living. Epicurus pointed out that death did not form a part of people while they were still living but became a part of them once they seized existing. This meant that death was not a concern for the living because they did not believe in the existence of death while the dead could not associate with the same as they no longer existed. I n addition, Epicurus believed that a wise person needed not fear life nor death because life did not offend him neither did death appear evil. On the other hand, Epicurus punctured the belief that the young needed advice on how to live fulfilling lives while the aged needed advice on how to approach their sunset. Arguably, Epicurus reiterated that everyone had a deep desire to continue to live irrespective of his or her age because the

Public Relation - BlueJet case study Term Paper

Public Relation - BlueJet case study - Term Paper Example Jet Blue Airways has had its share of difficulties in the public relations sector such as the stranding of two planes in the JFK airport in the snowstorm of February 14, 2007. Public relations are defined as the management and practice of passing on information between the management and public in an organization. In this report, I shall focus on how Jet Blue Airways is able to keep a growing number of local and domestic flyers. The growth of the company is documented in numerous sources, such as a growth that has recorded over 23 million passengers in the New York, New York, Boston, Massachusetts, Orlando, Florida, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and long beach, California cities in the August- July 2010 season. This report shall assess the methods, strategies and practices used by Jet Blue Airways with respect to improving public relations. Improving the public relations positively affects the running of the company such as in marketing, advertising and sales department of the company. The report shall also focus on the elements useful is improving the public relations of the company. The SWOT analysis of Jet Blue Airways consists of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that the company faces in running its operations. The analysis should involve all the elements that involve the company’s operations. The SWOT analysis of a company is normally done to aid in marketing the services and products in an aim to attain sustenance and growth. When it comes to the public relations, there are minimal differences in the SWOT analysis as the concerns of the company are in regards to the loyal customers the airline has established (Broom, 2008). The following are the strengths of Jet Blue Airways in public relations, in accordance to the marketing strategy used by the company (Cutlip, Center, & Broom, 2005). These strengths involve the management, staff

Epicurus and epictetus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Epicurus and epictetus - Essay Example Essentially, these great scholars of philosophy had different consolation on the reasons for valuing and giving meaning to life (Pojman 530). Therefore, this essay will delve on two Greek philosophers, Epictetus and Epicurus, to try to understand their ideologies regarding the importance of living life without having to worry about the occurrence of death. 2. Epicurus According to ancient philosophy, Epicurus was an ancient philosopher that lived between two hundred and seventy one and three hundred and forty one B.C. He founded his school of philosophy in Athens where he spent most of his life. Epicurus was a philosopher who related the aspect of pleasure with good and the aspect of bad with pain concerning living. This concept became Hedonism, a Greek word meaning pleasure. For Epicurus, being sensuous and exalting life did not quantify for Epicureanism to form an opinion on the views of living. However, Epicurus was of the belief that a pleasurable life came from having calm emoti ons through the appreciation of honest but beautiful pleasantries of life. These pleasures include the good company of friends, a healthy diet, morally upright behavior, and good personal health. Epicurus insisted that people were not to worry about death, but only had to concern themselves with pleasure and pain (Pojman 531). Therefore, Epicurus believed that death was not a feeling hence advising people not to be fearful of death. Ideally, this Epicurus was an ardent believer in the doctrines of philosophy because to him philosophy was a constant factor in the life of any individual. Further, Epicurus felt that people needed to focus on the aspects of life that made them happy as part of living a fulfilled life. However, this Epicurus had a queer belief in matters related to God and other gods, but he acknowledged their existence. In essence, Epicurus believed that these higher deities received much accreditation for what they truly were not. For him, ill fate befell those that li ved wicked lives and blessings followed those that did well hence questioning the credibility of gods being the source of either blessings or curses. 2.2 Epicurus and his argument on death Arguably, Epicurus advised people to believe that death was nothing to them because it was a way of depriving human beings off sensation. In this regard, the understanding of death as nothing of concern influenced living life enjoyably because one lived without needing to be immortal. According to his philosophy, Epicurus encouraged people not to live in anticipation of the pain that would come together with death because this feeling would make them cower towards living. Epicurus pointed out that death did not form a part of people while they were still living but became a part of them once they seized existing. This meant that death was not a concern for the living because they did not believe in the existence of death while the dead could not associate with the same as they no longer existed. I n addition, Epicurus believed that a wise person needed not fear life nor death because life did not offend him neither did death appear evil. On the other hand, Epicurus punctured the belief that the young needed advice on how to live fulfilling lives while the aged needed advice on how to approach their sunset. Arguably, Epicurus reiterated that everyone had a deep desire to continue to live irrespective of his or her age because the

Edge Wave Formation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Edge Wave Formation - Essay Example They can occur in a selection of different scales: high-frequency waves reverberate by the confrontation wind waves (Guza and Davis, 1974), enforced by incident wave groups (Schffer, 168) and very low-frequency waves of oceanographic level (Munk et al., 127-132). Edge waves may participate in an important role in coastal dynamics, as they are associated to the creation of split currents (Bowen and Inman, 5479-5490) or beach cusps (Guza and Inman, 1975). Recently, Ciriano et al. (2000) have made known that edge waves may tempt resonant vibrations inside harbors with the entrance being opened to the beach. (3680-3691) The occurrence of topographically trapped waves in promontory and estuaries has been studied tentatively by Stoker and Johnson (1991), whose consequences agree with field interpretation by Schwing (157-180). Edge wave theory dates back to Stokes' (1846) clarification for a wave trapped on a plane inclined beach. Eckart (1951 p.99) implemented the linear low water theory and demonstrated that Stokes' answer symbolized only the first of other likely manners. Ursell (1952) achieved the exact results to the linearised edge problem. (79-97) Green (1986) summarized the solution of the problem of an edge wave proliferated along a seawall.(119-125) Neu and Oh (1987) offered a method to solve the type of edge wave troubles where the near coast topography is characterized by a series of linearly unstable depth sections. (227-240) They wrote the explanation in terms of Kummer's functions and regarded as two beach reports: a regular beach slope ended with a constant depth area and the case of an offshore piece. A conventional explanation in coastal engineering to stops the erosion of a beach or to have the power of the alongshore deposits transport is to assemble a groin upright to the coastline. This arrangement, built with gravel or as raised area, is leaky. In addition, some seashore has a berth vertical to the seashore in order to have entrance to deeper waters. In this paper, the circulation and conversion of an incident edge wave in the course of a permeable coastal formation will be investigated in a manner that be similar to the one dealt by Stoker and Johnson (1991). The edge wave difficulty has originated subsequent Neu and Oh's result. A beach outline with a sheer foreshore and a flat surface slope ending with a straight shelf with an upright permeable formation extending from the beach up to far offshore is measured. Because the distance across of the groins evaluated to the edge wave length is exceptionally small, usually less than 1/50, dissipation within the formation is primarily due to the unexpected narrowing and spreading out of the flow and depends generally on the Keulegan-Carpenter number distinct as UT/a, where U is a representative speed at the gaps, T is the wave period and a is a distinguishing dimension of the holes. For groins, UT/a is a large number and consequently head loss can be adequately deliberated with a form ula quadratic to the local speed (Mei et al., 217-239). As the edge wave disseminated through the coastal formation, part of it's alongshore force is replicated, part is spreaded and part is degenerated on the formation. The replicated part obstructs with the arriving wave, creating up a

Tourism in New South Wales Essay Example for Free

Tourism in New South Wales Essay Introduction:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  This paper seeks to answer given questions in relation to tourism   and   travel industry at New South Wales including evaluation the effectiveness of measures taken, difference of approach for Asian countries   affected by crisis, knowing   how to incorporate crisis management in an organization’s business strategic plans and   how to reduce damage from unseen contingencies. Questions and Answers 2.1. Do you think the measures taken by Tourism New South Wales were effective in helping the travel and tourism industry?   Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The measures taken by the Tourism New South Wales (TNSW) were effective in helping the travel and tourism industry in the sense that the outcome was a minimized reduction inflow of total visitors to the state through careful management of the crisis.    It was further mentioned that TNSW succeeded in defusing the industry hysteria and ensured that the industry was adequately informed, which gave the industry directions how to conduct its short and medium-term strategy in response to the crisis.   As a result, the industry, did not abandon the region in question entirely, which could have led to a very damaging loss of face and presence in many of the markets (Gray and Fletcher, n.d.).      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  An analysis of the measures taken revealed concern rather than alarmed in terms of initial response taken by TNSW to address the crisis.   TNSW identified the crisis at the earliest time possible by tapping industry contacts and commentary by its regional officers in the affected areas. It helped to see the extent of the problem when government statistics on inbound tourism became available for decision making.   Since by that time, several media sources had been painting a bleak picture of the entire Asian-based tourism industry, which thereby created hysteria within the travel and tourism industry as a whole, TNSW has responded responsively accordingly.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   TNSW conducted its own analysis on the nature and extent of the crisis, and how it affected the travel and tourism industry on a country-by-country basis. By monitored the news reports for accuracy and senior levels, TNSW disseminated information through the press to paint a more comprehensive picture of what was actually happening as way of damage control to what the press has earlier reported. TNSW revived confidence and calmed down the hysteria generated through some speculative biased reports (Gray and Fletcher, n.d.).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Instead of being alarmed TNSW was able to provide leadership on how the industry should respond and to provide forecasts which it used to project the nature and extent of the recovery in all markets.   Based on forecasts made, it was able to see where it could take advantage opportunities and minimize the effect of industry threats (Kotler,1994; Kotter and Schlesinger,1991; Porter, 1980).   As part of its many tactical decisions, case facts mentioned the allocation of a larger portion of its budget to Asian region being diverted to other key growth markets such as the USA and Europe.   TNSW applied careful marketing investment decisions in Asia on the basis of analysis of which markets would recover first. It was able to observe which of the markets showed evidence of rebound while ensuring that it would not lose presence and awareness in those markets. How will the approach differ for the Asian countries affected by the crisis?      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The approach will differ for Asian countries affected by the crisis in terms of giving priority where risks caused by the Asian crisis should be brought at the minimum by allocating more budgets for Asian countries than the rest that could produce more revenues or less amount of loss.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To implement this kind of strategy, those countries which could give earlier recovery in terms of more revenues or less amount of loss should be viewed in the proper values of currencies of each of the countries. To illustrate, some of the Asian countries have smaller devaluation of their currencies than others in relation to the US dollar or those which has shown smaller decline in number of visitors are less affected.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Case facts say that the impacts of the crisis from Korea and Hong Kong were alarmingly low at the end to 1997, falling by about 90% from the previous year. Between the two Hong Kong has shown faster recovery. Japan in comparison showed smaller decline in number of visitors by about 6% in 1997, 19% in 1998 and 8% in 1999. Thus it was more proper to invest more in Japan that with Korea and Hong Kong.   Countries such as Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand appeared to have held up well in 1999 after their being badly affected during the crisis, thus these countries could receive higher budget allocation in 1999 and afterwards. TNSW could not just abandon Asian markets because they constitute about 40% of all NSW’s visitors (Gray and Fletcher, n.d.). 2.3. The travel and tourism industry is often exposed to uncertainty, risk and disaster. How important is to incorporate crises management in an organization’s strategic business plans.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is important to incorporate crises management in an organization’s strategic business plans because failure to do would leave the country or nation unprepared to such eventuality and it is such a big risk to face in terms of loss revenues. In the case of New South Wales, the tourism industry income represents about 10% of the state economy and the government is also depending from the same industry to employ thousands of its people, thus the decision of TNSW is critical and very important to making its strategic plans.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Incorporating therefore crises management to an organization’s strategic plans is the same as preparing for contingencies in the major part of the economic plans for New South Wales.   For a nation to lose big amount of revenues amounting to billions of US dollars and thousands of employment opportunities is also courting other problems for its people politically, socially and even psychologically.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To incorporate crises management therefore in an organization’s strategic plans amounts being complete and realistic in preparing strategic plans (Churchill, Jr. and Peter, 1995; Cooper, L. 2000). Strategic plans are meant to attain objectives which include the characteristics of being specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. To prepare for any eventuality including possible crises is just being realistic with possible events in the future and therefore including crises management in strategic business plans of an organization is deemed part of well prepared strategic plan. 2.3. The unexpected can happen to an overseas market or group of markets. What should international strategic marketing plans incorporate to reduce damage from unseen contingencies?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To reduce damage from unseen contingencies, the following should be incorporated in the international strategic marketing plans:   (1) A contingency plan that could address all possible scenarios; (2) The contingency plan should allow management a sober analysis and interpretation of anecdotal and statistical information for decision making; (3) The contingency plan should allow dissemination of information to industry players to allow responsible decisions (Gray and Fletcher, n.d.);   (4) The plan should provide leadership in terms of how to respond properly with the contingency; and (5) The plan should have forecasts (Brigham and Houston, 2002;   Weston and Brigham,1993; Helfert, 1994) that could   project the nature and extent of the recovery in all markets should the contingency happen (Gray and Fletcher (n.d.). Conclusion and Recommendation   Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  This paper has shown how an organization responded to unseen crises that it may not have foreseen as per case facts.   A calculated response was however noted in addressing the Asian financial crisis effects on tourism and travel industry to NSW by TNSW’s employing the elements of analysis and interpretation of anecdotal and statistical information, dissemination of information to industry, providing leadership in terms of how to respond to the crisis and providing forecasts which projected the nature and extent of the recovery in all markets.    The crisis was essentially external to TNSW but company appears to have been prepared despite any indication in the case fact that it did not foresee the same. The response therefore is an indication of preparedness that must formally form part of organization’s strategic plans. In additional international strategic marketing plans should incorporate contingency plans to reduce damage from unseen contingencies and that such contingency plans must be workable under different conditions.   Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Organizations are therefore recommended to always be prepared and the best kind of preparation is integration of contingency plans on their strategic business plans. References: Brigham and Houston (2002) Fundamentals of Financial Management, Thomson South-Western, London, UK Churchill, Jr. and Peter (1995) Marketing, Creating Value for Customers, IRWIN,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Sydney, Australia Cooper, L. (2000) Strategic marketing planning for radically new products, Journal of Marketing, Vol. 64 Issue 1, pp.1-15. Gray and Fletcher (n.d.) Tourism New South Wale’s Experience in marketing tourism during the aftermath of the Asian financial crisis Helfert, Erich (1994), Techniques for Financial Analysis, IRWIN, Sydney, Australia Kotler, P (1994) Marketing Management, Analysis Planning, Implementation and Control, London, UK Kotter, J. and Schlesinger, L. (1991) Choosing strategies for change, Harvard Business Review, pp.24-29. Porter (1980) Competitive Strategy, Free Press, London, UK Weston and Brigham (1993) Essential of Managerial Finance, Dryden Publishers   London, UK

Developing Low Energy and Sustainable Homes

Developing Low Energy and Sustainable Homes Climate change and energy security are the greatest challenges facing the world today. Climate change is causing global warming, which is the increase in the average temperature on the earths surface, air and oceans. The release of greenhouse gas emissions into our atmosphere, from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation have been a major factor in their increase over the last 100 years. Energy security is vital for any developed economy. The OPEC member countries control about 75% of the worlds oil reserves (R). Many of these countries are politically unstable and they can control the price of oil. In the early years of this decade, the UK was a net exporter of gas and it is estimated that by 2020, they will only be able to meet about 40% of their oil and gas needs themselves(R). The UK needs to reduce its green house gas emissions and meet their energy demands without having to rely on other nations. The Kyoto protocol was established to limit and reduce the amount of green house gases released into the atmosphere. Industrialised countries, and those is transition to a market economy, which were called the Annex I countries have agreed to ratify the agreement and reduce their emissions to a 1990s baseline (R). The UKs commitment under the protocol is to reduce their green house gas emissions by 12.5% of 1990 levels, by 2008-2012. This involves an 8% reduction in their C02 emissions, the main cause of global warming, over this time frame. Further aspirational targets are set out in the DTI Energy White Paper published in 2003, such as to reduce CO2 emissions by 80% by 2050 (R). In 2002, the residential sector caused 27% of the UKs CO2 emissions, of which 82% of the energy was for space and water heating (R). The proposals, as laid out by Gordon Brown in 2006 stated that within ten years, every new home will be a zero-carbon home. The Code for Sustainable Homes was introduced in 2007, the code rates the sustainability of homes over six levels based on certain criteria. In theory, constructing zero-carbon homes (homes which can generate their own electrical and heating needs either onsite or locally) is a fantastic idea which will eventually lower energy demands and then lower the CO2 emissions countrywide. But they are ambitious plans and there are several issues that need to be resolved such as: Zero-Carbon Home: Definition New Construction Techniques Building Regulations The Code for Sustainable Homes Planning Laws Grants and incentives Whats happening now? Certifying Agencies Zero Carbon Homes: There is still some confusion as to the detailed description of a zero-carbon home. The Housing Minister, John Healy published on the Communities and Local Government (CLG) website the zero carbon homes definition: A zero carbon home is one whose net carbon dioxide emissions, taking account of emissions associated with all energy use in the home, is equal to zero or negative across the year. The definition of energy use will cover both energy uses currently regulated by the Building Regulations and other energy used in the home. (R) Detailed information is still needed about energy imported and used in the zero carbon homes. The energy standards state that there has to be onsite renewable energy and a locally connected heat supply to achieve a 70% reduction in the carbon emissions from current levels. Currently there is no allowance made for renewable energy generated off site, for example, wind and wave power. If I design a proposed zero carbon home and connect it to an energy company that is generating electricity in the north of Scotland, I might not achieve the rating I want which is unfair, even though he electricity is generated from a renewable source. The life cycle of a building is not taken into account in the definition of a zero carbon homes either. The construction, renovation and disposal can cause significant amounts of CO2 emission to be released. A life cycle analyses of a zero carbon home should include the embodied energy within the materials and waste disposal. Of course, not all of the material could be sourced locally as this would be impossible, but each council/local government should be able to compile a list of materials that are located locally. Ideally, a certain percentage of the local materials should have to be used. This would not only decrease the embodied energy within some of the construction materials but also help support local businesses. The government should invest more in the research of this idea, with many businesses suffering in the current economic climate, we should be buying locally, not importing. New Construction Techniques Building Regulations: Our European neighbours have been developing low energy houses and energy saving construction techniques for over 30 years. While some of the techniques might be new to the UK, they have been tried and tested on the continent. Currently the averaged U-Value for Walls, Roofs and Floors (wm2K) in Part L of the Building Regulations for the UK is 0.24, whereas in Germany and Switzerland the Passivehaus and Minergie-P regulations are achieving an average of 0.10(R). In 2013 the averaged UK Part L will lower to 0.18 and then in 2016 to 0.14. (R) The German designed Passivhaus has been a hugely successful energy saving concept that has only reached the UK in recent years. The basic principle include very good levels of insulation with minimal thermal bridging, utilising solar and internal gains by house orientation, window design and location, excellent levels of air tightness and good indoor air quality provided by whole house mechanical ventilation system with highly efficient heat recovery.(R) Sweden, also has produced energy efficient house designs since the 1970s, with different mandatory standards for the north and south due to the difference in climate. There performance standards are among the highest energy efficiency requirements in the world, already in line with Passivhaus standards. Over 7000 home have been constructed across Europe to the Passivhaus standard, the techniques used can easily be adapted here within the UK. The highly insulated and airtight passivhaus have a heating requirment of 15kwh/m2/year, which is nearly 90% less energy used to heat a standard UK home (R). These homes often need little or no heating for 9 months of the year. This will not automatically mean that the houses will achieve the highest level on the Code for Sustainable Homes. If we are to achieve the standards of the Passivhaus, the design and construction techniques should be introduced into the university courses now, for such degrees as I studied (Architectural Technology). These techniques are the future for zero carbon residential, commercial and industrial building. Starting with the basic house construction, if we are thought the techniques on how to construct dwellings that minimise their heat and hot water demand, less energy is needed, and expensive renewable options such as PV cells, geothermal pumps and domestic wind turbines can be reduced. We can then adapt these techniques for other building types. Code for Sustainable Homes Sullivan Report: The Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) was introduced in England on a voluntary basis in May 2007 and a code rating for all new buildings became mandatory from 1st May 2008. The Code Level 3 rating for newly constructed homes promoted or supported by the Welsh Assembly Government became mandatory from 1st May 2008 also and from 2nd June 2008, Code Level 3 is required for all new self-contained social housing in Northern Ireland (R). The Code does not apply in Scotland. A panel was appointed by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Changet, chaired by Lynne Sullivan, they made recommendations to develop a strategy to achieve zero net carbon emissions. Experts for the UK as well as from Norway, Denmark and Austria participated. They agreed on eventual and staged recommendations to be achieved by new build and existing homes in Scotland. The following was recommended for all new build homes in Scotland: Net zero carbon buildings (i.e. space and water heating, lighting and ventilation) by 2016/2017, if practical. Two intermediate stages on the way to net zero carbon buildings, one change in energy standards in 2010 (low carbon buildings) and another in 2013 (very low carbon buildings). The 2010 change in energy standards for non-domestic buildings should deliver carbon dioxide savings of 50% more than 2007 standards. The 2010 change in energy standards for domestic buildings should deliver carbon dioxide savings of 30% more than 2007 standards. The 2013 change in energy standards for non-domestic buildings should deliver carbon dioxide savings of 75% more than 2007 standards. The 2013 change in energy standards for domestic buildings should deliver carbon dioxide savings of 60% more than 2007 standards. Backstop levels of U-values and airtightness for building fabric should be improved in 2010 to match those of Nordic countries, but consideration must be given to the social and financial impact of measures that would necessitate mechanical ventilation with heat recovery in domestic buildings. The ambition of total-life zero carbon buildings by 2030. The Code for Sustainable Homes was introduced to replace Ecohomes which was the energy assessment rating for all homes in B.R.E.E.A.M. (R). The CSH was intended to be a single national standard for design and construction of sustainable homes. The code complements the system of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) which was introduced in June 2007 under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) (R). All new homes (and eventually all homes, when they are sold or leased) will have an EPC which provides key information about the energy efficiency/carbon performance of a home. The CSH and EPC and energy assessments used the same terminology. The CSH was developed by using the existing Building Research Establishments (BRE) EcoHomes System. The Code has a scoring system of six levels. The different levels are made up by achieving both the appropriate mandatory minimum standards together with a proportion of flexible standards. Level 6, being the highest level achieves a Zero-Carbon Home standard. The Code has been designed so it is closely linked to the Building Regulations, which are the minimum standards by law. The minimum standards for the Code compliance have been set above the requirements of the Building Regulations. The Code has been set out as a baseline in relation to carbon emissions from energy use in a home. The introduction of the Code for Sustainable Homes will encourage developers to build to higher standards. Homes that will be constructed to the higher standards set out in the Code will produce lower levels of CO2 and generate lower energy bills for the occupants. Including the 6 level scoring systems is a good opportunity for developers and buildings to try various construction techniques and see what level they can achieve. The levels are a good stepping stone to achieve a level 6 score and obtaining a zero-carbon home status. The Code for Sustainable Homes was designed to show how sustainable a home could be. Sustainable homes should include the three pillars of sustainability: Environmental, Social Economic. In the Code, only one of these pillars is addressed, Environmental. For the Code to be truly sustainable the social and economic issues need to be included in the design, construction and operation of all new homes. The location of new homes, either in a rural or built-up area could be added to the weighting system for points scoring. Constructing a home within a certain distance of a public transfer route could also gain points on the scoring system, this would reduce the home owners daily car use and CO2 emissions. The government or local authorities could have specially designated areas, preferably Brownfield sites that could be classed as sustainable sites. A points system could be incorporated into the CSH for constructing a new home in this area. As transport makes up over 23% of UKs GHG emissions (R), encouraging alternative-fuel vehicles and electric cars would be beneficial. An alternative-fuel top up station could be constructed within these proposed sustainable sites area. This would meet some of the economic issues by creating employment within the green industry. Until the social and economic issues have been addressed, we should consider contacting the Department for Communities and Local Government and asking them to rename the Code for Sustainable Homes to the Code for Environmental Homes. Planning Laws: As stated in Section 1.0, Zero-Carbon Homes will have to incorporate either on-site renewable technologies or locally sourced combined heat and power (CHP) for their energy needs. The National Planning Policy Statement 22: Renewable Energy gives national guidance in England, on the installation of renewable technologies. Statement 22 was last updated in 2004, but has been supplemented by the updated Planning Policy Statement 1: Planning Climate Change published in 2007. Currently there is a consultation draft to be updated and published before the end of this year (2009). The equivalent planning statement in Scotland is the National Planning Policy Guideline 6: Renewable Energy Developments. It provides the Scottish Executives policy on national land use and planning matters regarding renewable technologies. New permitted development rights introduced on 6th April 2008 in England and the 12th March 2009 in Scotland have made it easier to install renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and biomass boilers(R). These permitted development rights have lifted requirements for planning permission for most domestic micro-generation technologies. In England, The General Permitted Development Order (GPDO) gives rights to certain forms of development on the home without the need to apply for planning permission. In Scotland, these rights are under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Developed) (Domestic Micro-generation) TCP (GPD) Scotland Amendment Order 2009. Currently the Welsh Assembly Government and Northern Ireland Government are considering changing their legislation to permit certain renewable technology development without having to apply for planning permission. Both governments hope to introduce legislation in 2010. The GPDO in England and the TCP (GPD) in Scotland include the following technologies: Solar PV Solar Thermal (Roof Mounted) Solar PV Solar Thermal (Stand Alone) Wood burning boilers and stoves Ground source heat pumps Water source heat pumps Air source heat pumps Micro and small wind (due to legal technicalities not included yet but further legislation expected later this year) The DPDO and TCP (GPD) are for guidance only. Each local authority has their own regulations that are set exclusively for their area. For example, a dwelling constructed within a conservation area would have to comply with stiffer standards with regard to installation of renewable technologies towards a dwelling not located in a conservation area. The Mid-Lothian Local Plan was published in 2007 and within NRG2 Individual Wins Turbines and Micro-Generations it states, The Council will support development that proposes the use of individual and community scale wind turbines and other micro-generation technologies for localised power requirements, provided they are located to minimise any potential adverse impact on the local community. The cumulative visual impact of such proposals will be taken into consideration when assessing individual planning applications There certainly is a good system in place in allowing the installation of certain renewable technologies without the need for applying for planning permission. The National Planning Policy Statements (England) and National Planning Policy Guidelines (Scotland) provide national frameworks which help local planning systems to evolve and deliver sustainable development. The current planning system is definitely driving us towards a sustainable future and the possibility of making ZCHs a reality by 2016. It is great to see that certain micro-generation technologies do not need to apply for planning permission, even if certain restrictions apply. But the main concern for home developers and owners is the cost of these technologies. Grants Incentives To construct a home that achieves a Level 6 in the CSH and a ZCH status requires new construction techniques and materials. There might be a higher initial cost to incorporate these techniques and materials than constructing a current standard home, but energy savings can be achieved over the whole life cost and operation of the home. The cost of constructing a ZCH is greater than a standard home because of the requirement to install renewable technologies. The cost of renewable energy generation depends on which type of technology is going to be installed within a home. In the UK, the government, energy suppliers and local authorities all provide grants towards installing renewable technologies into your home. The Department of Energy Climate Change (DECC) low carbon building programme provides grants for householders. The grants are available for micro-generation technologies including Solar PV, wind turbines, small scale hydro, solar water heating, heat pumps and bio-energy. The programme also funds renewable CHP, micro CHP and fuel cells. In Scotland, the Energy Saving Scotland home renewable grant scheme provides grants for homes. It is funded by the Scottish Government and the Energy Saving Trust. Funding is set at 30% of the installed cost up to a maximum of  £4,000. The grant covers Solar water heating, solar PV, solar thermal space heating, small scale wind and hydro systems, ground source and air source heat pumps and biomass boilers and stoves. In Scotland, you have the choice to apply for an Energy Saving Scotland home renewable grant or a low carbon buildings programme grant, but you cannot apply for a grant from both programmes for one technology. The grants available help towards the cost of the installation of renewables, but are they enough? With the current economic climate, people are being very careful with their money. Renewable technologies can save money over the whole life costing of a home, but its the initial cost that is important to people now. The grants available should be increased to really entice people to purchase these technologies. There are also feed-in tariffs available, if a home is generating more electrical energy than it needs, it can sell it back to the main energy suppliers. There are currently two main types of feed-in tariffs available, the Export Tariff, where you are only paid for the electricity you export to the electricity network and the Generation tariffs, where you are paid for all the electricity that your system generates even if you use it in your own home. There are also some Set Price Tariffs available where a fixed amount is paid by the energy supplier based on the type of system installed. The tariff feedback system is a chance for all consumers to become producers. All homes could become energy-plus which could make the UK a net exporter of renewable energy in the future. In Germany, they have been using a feed-in tariff system for over 10 years. It has been a huge success. Under the German system anyone generating electricity from solar PV, wind or hydro is guaranteed a payment of four times the market rate for 20 years. This reduces the payback time for cost of the renewable technologies to less than 10 years and after the payback time is complete, the home owner has a regular income from the electrical company for the power they generate. The cost is spread by generating companies among all users and has added about one cent/kwh to the average bill, or an extra à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1.50 ( £1) a month (R). The growth in home electric generation and renewable technology use in Germany has created jobs and reduced the initial cost. With more companies competing for a share of the market, they have lowered their prices, a typical 3kw PV system costs about  £17,000 in Britain but less than  £10,000 in Germany (R). It has been proven that the feed in tariff system in Germany is lowering the initial cost of renewable technologies, creating employment and generating income for the home owner after the payback period is over. This system should be introduced worldwide, and promoted as a sustainable method as it incorporates the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social and economic. Certifying Agencies BREEAM (BRE Environmental AssessmentMethod) is the leading and most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings. It sets the standard for best practice in sustainable design and has become the de facto measure used to describe a buildings environmental performance (R). An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required for all homes whenever built, rented or sold. If you are buying or selling a home it is now law to have a certificate. They are also required on construction of new homes and are needed for rented homes the first time the property is let after 1 October 2008. The certificate records how energy efficient a property is as a building and provides A-G ratings. These are similar to the labels now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. The UKs governments Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP), assess the energy performance of dwellings and produces the EPC. Energy performance is based on consumption per unit floor area, energy cost rating (SAP rating), an Environmental Impact rating based on CO2 emissions (EI rating) and a Dwelling CO2 Emission Rate (DER). The SAP rating is based on energy costs associated with space heating, water heating, ventilation and lightings, less cost savings from energy generation technologies. The SAP rating is expressed on a scale of 1 to 100, the higher the number the lower the running costs. An EPC is always accompanied by a recommendation report that lists cost effective and other measures (such as low and zero carbon generating systems) to improve the energy rating. A rating is also given showing what could be achieved if all the recommendations were implemented. EPCS are produced by accredited energy assessors. Whats happening now? Some local authorities in the UK have been making exemplar progress in delivering a low carbon economy, such as Fife in Scotland and in the near future, Merseyside Council are to become the biggest UK low carbon economy (R). The Zero Carbon Hub is a web-site set up by the Government to help you understand the challenges, issues and opportunities involved in developing, building and marketing low and zero carbon homes. The Zero Carbon Hub shares practical experience and uses this information to accelerate main stream adoption of low and zero carbon methods and technologies. The web-site identifies successful examples of low and zero carbon housing solutions. This will help identify successful design, method, technologies and approaches. Currently major house developers within the UK are constructing prototype zero carbon homes. They are using the developments as exemplar projects on techniques and technologies needed to be included within a home to achieve Zero Carbon status. The following developers and companies have all developed a zero carbon home. Stewart Milne Group Sigma Project Kingspan Off-Site The Lighthouse Creo ProKoncept The Creo House Barratt Developments Plc The Barrett Green House Miller Homes Ltd. Miller Zero Housing Project Tarmac Ltd Level 6 Home University of Nottingham It is encouraging that the major house developers are constructing their own example of zero carbon homes that can be mass produced. They are experimenting with new techniques and materials and then sharing their results and information so everyone benefits. The Stewart Milne Group claim, for their Sigma project to achieve a Level 6 on the CSH, the initial cost for renewable technologies is currently from  £60,000- £70,000. They suggest we should be concentrating on super-insulating our homes instead of trying to generate energy. They make a valid point here, if we super insulate our homes we will need less energy to heat it, requiring less renewable technologies to generate electricity. It is highly likely that by 2013 many of the sustainability stumbling blocks for the UK will have been swept away by neccesity. Retrofit solutions to existing properties must be part of the future. If only our banks were to protect their assets by financing a UK wide improvement programme. As practitioners of sustainability we have the following summary for you all What is a zero carbon home? A zero carbon home would qualify for zero stamp duty if its design emission rating (DER) were a negative number and its Heat Loss Parameter HLP sufficiently low. At present; the embedded energy of the materials used the energy from appliances and fittings and fixtures the energy associated with transport and servicing are not included. The term low carbon home is rather vague and ambiguous for the consumer Regards The impact of achieving the 25 per cent and 44 per cent improvements above the current Part L standard in 2010 and 2013 is estimated to have a net impact on the economy up to 2016 of around  £1.9bn. These costs are based on assuming that developers choose technologies on the basis of minimising the capital costs of construction. However, if the impact of on going costs and benefits is taken into account in technology choices, then the overall cost to the economy is reduced to  £0.85bn, which is nearly half of the  £1.9bn cost. Under this scenario there is a slightly higher capital outlay (the percentage increase in Part L above 2006 in 2013 is 6.2 per cent compared with 5.4 per cent when the capital costs are minimised), but the difference in size of the ongoing benefits is clear.

Platos The Republic and The Old Testament Essay -- Philosophy Buddhis

Plato's The Republic and The Old Testament A Buddhist teaching suggests that practicing Buddhism is like taking a raft over a great river. One riverbank represents the realm of ‘samsara,’ the cycle of suffering that we are all spinning around in. On the other side is ‘wakefulness,’ or ‘nirvana,’ an enlightened state of awareness characterized by an infinite sense of unity and bliss. The raft symbolizes Buddhism; its purpose being to help us cross over from samsara to nirvana. According to the teaching, however, a curious thing happens to the individual who manages to reach the ‘banks of enlightenment.’ Having climbed off of the raft, she turns around to discover that she cannot now see any riverbank on the side from which she departed. In fact, she realizes that there is no river, no raft, and – to her pure astonishment – no Buddha at all! (Zimmer, 82-90) The story is a way of reminding us that the state of wakefulness involves an experience of reality so utterly beyond linear comprehension, so overwhelming and indescribable, and so categorically unlike anything one could possibly imagine or articulate in finite terms, that even the means of achieving it are, at best, illusory roadmaps – roadmaps that use boundaries in an attempt to help people grasp a condition of being that has no boundaries. Thus, in essence, it would never be possible to attain a complete understanding of wakefulness using Buddhism or any other practice or paradigm arising out of the substrate of finite consciousness. It could be said that systems like Buddhism are limited to pointing us in an appropriate direction or helping us to look in places where we might be more likely to become enlightened. They may embody or convey truth in one form or ... ...ntext, but this does not prevent us from encountering the Ultimate in the writings of the Old Testament as well. The texts each approach the subject from foreign perspectives, describing unique facets of the same idea. If we work from that point of view, we can see unity between them, and develop a broader, more encompassing understanding of the world. Works Cited: Plato. â€Å"from The Republic.† In: Benton, Janetta Rebold and DiYanni, Robert. 1998. Arts and Culture: An Introduction to the Humanities. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. 152-154. Wilber, Ken. â€Å"The Perennial Philosophy.† In: Wilber, Ken. 1998. The Essential Ken Wilber: An Introductory Reader. Boulder, CO: Shambhala Publications. 7-8. Zimmer, Heinrich (trans). â€Å"Buddhahood.† In: Eastman, Roger. 1999. The Ways of Religion. 3rd Ed. New York, NY: Oxford University Press. 82-90.

Hotel Rwanda †The Rwandan Genocide Essay

Hotel Rwanda is a film about the genocide that transpired within the premises of the city of Kigali, the heart of Rwanda during the year 1994. This evil act lasted for 100 days killing thousands of innocent lives of Rwandan men, women and children. But in the film, it did not focus on the genocide. Instead, it shed a light on the heroic and courageous deed of one ordinary man in an effort to save the lives of some of his countrymen. In the movie, almost all of the aspects of the genocide were tackled including the powerlessness of the United Nations to put a stop to the violent killings perpetrated by the Rwandan government and the Hutu rebels against the Tutsis. This was very much evident when the character of Dan Cheadle was promised by the UN Colonel that he, his family and all the refugees at the Milles Collines will be rescued. But when the colonel had a talk with another UN officer, the plan seemed to have changed. The colonel explained that only foreign nationals were allowed to leave Rwanda. Only a small number of troops were instructed to uphold peacekeeping and not peacemaking meaning they were not allowed to shoot at anyone even if they commit violent actions. More so, the minimal involvement of the international organizations and their eventual negligence over the escalating killings in Rwanda played a pivotal role in the increased deaths of thousands of people. Instead of helping the Tutsis to take refuge to a safer place in neighboring countries, these organizations decided not to get involve because of the misconception that nothing can restore the peace and order in an anarchic setting. Moreover in the movie, a Red Cross worker drew some attention because of how she showed her bravery by setting aside her fears and her own welfare just to save a few people from being mercilessly killed by the Hutus. Some aid workers decided to stay in order to help while others chose to flee in order to protect their welfare. Overall, the movie generated an accurate depiction of the Rwandan genocide. However, some controversial issues were downplayed like the role of the French in the uprising and arming of the Hutu rebels. After the genocide, some reports have surfaced that implicated a few French politicians and the French military with this tragic incident. According to the results of the findings of an â€Å"Independent Rwandan Commission,† the French government was â€Å"aware of preparations for the genocide and helped train the ethnic Hutu militia perpetrators. The report included that France provided the Hutus with â€Å"political, military, diplomatic and logistical support. † For almost 2 years, the commission had gathered data and interviewed several survivors. All the information that had been obtained, served as testimonies to the participation of the French government in the killing of almost 800,000 civilians in the span of 100 days (BBC, 2008). But the French vehemently refu ted the accusations. In their defense, they stated that the allegations were biased because the commission has only one thing in mind and that is to prove that the French are guilty. The â€Å"French Foreign Ministry said â€Å"there is no surprise in the conclusions of the commission given its mission† (CNN, 2008). Aside from this, the film also failed to include the admission of the United Nations of its failure to prevent the genocide. But for the UN, this became a learning experience. They realized that people should not be neglected specifically in times of dire need when lives are at stake (BBC, 2000). Given this new angle in the Rwandan genocide, it should have been also portrayed in the movie. This would have given viewers more accurate representation of what really happened in Rwanda in April 1994. Also, this would have been a chance for the whole world to determine who the real culprits were in one of the worst humanitarian crisis of the 20th century. More so, these events could have provided a comprehensive outlook on how humans are capable of doing horrendous and brutal acts just to have power and control.

Labor and Employment Law Synthesis Paper

Labor and Employment Law Synthesis Paper Honglei Qin HMD 259-2005 11/14/2012 Labor and Employment Law This law is the one capable of explaining the economic motivation, background and implication of employment and labor regulation so as to help the policymakers, researchers and advocates express their own positional ideas (Simpson, 2011).. These regulations are the ones that provide the initial ideas of the labor law to any person getting into the studies regarding the economic perspectives.The labor law consists of various aspects which mostly are directly involving the employment processes. In this case, there are many categories of employments whereby the regulations guiding them are of different kinds. Some of the examples are the gender bases in the labor sector whereby both sex are protected by the law from any kind of discrimination in the workplaces (Simpson, 2011). In case of age matter, the law provides regulations on the age required for the employment hence preventing any kind of child labor.Other special cases that are guided by the labor law are the issues of slavery, human trafficking and the forced labor whereby the victims are being forced to work in bad conditions without their requirements been observed by the employers. According to the study conducted by Ann Sophie, the role of employment law economically is to generate a frame work of legal aspects to maximize the labor exchange joint value by reducing the incentives of the parties (Simpson, 2011).This is done in order to an advantageously use the element which are unspecified of contractual relationship and by doing this the cost of detailed employment and enforcement is reduced at a high rate. In order to understand well the concept of the employment or labor law, let us look at different ways of employment. Two of the main ways that a person can be employed is as an employee or may be as a contractor that is independent contractor. This will help as understand various obligation of the labor law since the two employment categories are assigned different rights under different obligations in the employment law (Simpson, 2011).Taking the case of the employee, he/she works directly under the service contractor with the employer, that is he/she works completely in the employer’s authority (Pagura, 2011).. He therefore have contract of service. In the other case of contractor, they do they work under sails of service and they do not only sell these services to one employer at a time but can as well sell them to many employers. Therefore they work under the contract for service. In order to understand this more, let us take an example of john and James who are both mechanics working in the same garage.John works there as a full time employee while James works as a contractor reporting to duties only in two days a week (Pagura, 2011).. In case of john, he waits to be told how, when and where to work by the boss. He gets his salary at the end of the month and it is fixed regardless of how many cars he has repaired (Pagura, 2011). All the tools are provided by the employer and he does not pay for any breakages or loses all that is under the employer’s obligation. In the case of James, he works only on Mondays and Fridays.After every peace of work he records it and at the end of every week he prepares an invoice for the job done of which he receives payments. Unlike john, James has to bring his toolbox with him and if he wants to use any from the garage he has to pay for it. Here are the deferent obligations provided by the labor law to these two different workers. In terms of flexibility, James is more flexible and independent than john. The independence of both is measured in terms of ability to work for others (Pagura, 2011).James is allowed to work for other contracts from Tuesday to Thursday while john is working exclusively for this one employer. Looking at the case of commercial risks, the employee is free from any commercial rich instead are taken by the employer while the contractor bears or the risks at work. These points are some of the points that an industrial court look at in order to determine whether a certain worker is an independent contractor or an employee.According to the contractor’s Act 2006 all the contractors are provided by the same rules and regulations. The labor law also provides regulations among the employee themselves. Let us look at one example of a case that is common in workplaces and that, if not handled properly, can be dangerous (Cornock, 2012). This is the issue of discrimination. There are several different types of discriminations such as the gender discrimination whereby a certain worker is denied her / his regal rights simply because of the sex type.The other type of discrimination is the religion or belief. This kind of assault can be from the employers or from the employees themselves. In order to report or raise such an issue, the victims should do it using a wri tten grievance with clear grounds of the problem and should be done before the end of three months from the incident (Cornock, 2012). In conclusion, the whole paper has tackled some of the aspects of the labor law and their implementations.We have seen how each employee is eligible to these employment rules which protect them in all kinds of work. The topic of labor law is broad and in order to understand further more studies are required. References Cornock, M. (2012). What to do when an employer acts unfairly. Nursing Standard, 26(38), 63. Pagura, I. (2011). Employment law: Employee v Independent Contractor. Journal Of The Australian Traditional-Medicine Society, 17(2), 36-37. Simpson, B. (2011). Labor and Employment Law and Economics. Industrial Law Journal, 40(1), 111-114.

The Merchant Of Venice

Portia is also manipulative, using silent humor as to not embarrass herself, having discussed with Inertias her displeasure in the choice of suitors, she cleverly replies, ‘Yourself, renowned prince, then stood as fair as any comer I have looked on yet for my affection. ‘ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 20) this demonstrates the use of her words as not to cause embarrassment, whilst being honest and telling Inertias he literally that he had no chance. The language Shakespeare uses for Portia and Shylock is different, both Portia and Shylock are very formal in the way they speak.Shylock is formal in a polite way in the judgment scene out of respect, ‘your grace' (Act 4, Scene 1 Line 35). As a sign of nobility Portia is formal in the way that she speaks, mostly she uses verse in more important scenes such as the judgment scene, which further emphasizes her portrayal as a formal male character. However, Portion's language is far more informal when she speaks to Inertias ‘Y ou know I say nothing to him, for he hath neither Latin, French nor Italian' this clearly accentuates their relationship as close; Portia speaks to Inertias in prose.Shylock on the other hand speaks predominantly in prose showing his lower status, particularly in his conversation with Tuba, ‘How now, Tuba, what news from Genoa? Hast thou found my daughter? ‘ (Act 3, Scene 1, Line 71), enhancing the informality of the conversation, and also the lower social status of Shylock as a Jew and Tuba as a Christian. In contrast to the majority of the play where Shylock speaks mostly in prose, in the judgment scene Shylock starts his opening speech with verse, ‘l have possessed your grace of what I purpose†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. .. As losing suit against him.Are you answered? ‘ ( Act 4, Scene 1, Line 35-63) this indicates the formality of where they are and this particular occasion, towards the end of the judgment Shylock language changes to prose making it less formal, when h e no longer has the upper hand, ‘ take this offer then. Pay the bond thrice and let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1 r Line 31 6) Portia however, maintains her style of language throughout the scene which reinforces her position and the formality of the situation they are in. In the beginning Of the scene, Shylock is very in control using lengthy paragraphs and verse.He is knowledgeable about the law, ‘If you deny me, fie upon your law: There is no force in the decrees of Venice. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 101 ) and adamant that he will succeed in the debt being paid, ‘The pound of flesh which I demand of him is dearly bought; ‘its mine and I will have it. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 99) However, Portia is also both very knowledgeable of the law and very cleverly using a literal interpretation of the law to undermine Shylock case ‘The bond doth give thee here no jot of blood. The words expressly are' a pound of flesh'. ‘(ACTA, Scene 1, Line 304) going on to say ‘One rope of Christian blood†¦Are by the laws of Venice confiscate. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 308) The difference between Portia and Shylock is that Portia maintains her control. Throughout this process Shylock responses become much shorter as his confidence diminishes. By literally interpreting the words Portia manipulates Shylock to a point were he becomes submissive, ‘l pray you give me leave to go from hence; I am not well. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 3, Line 97) Portia, even she though is portraying a man still has a higher stature than Shylock even as a woman. Shylock is refereed to as ‘the Jew an insult and a means of singling IM out as a lower class of person.By calling him ‘Jew' throughout the scene the Christians are putting him in his place. By Portion's reference to Christian blood being shed as being ‘By the laws of Venice confiscate' she is indicating that Christians are more special in the eyes of the law. However, Shylock shows a similar prejudice towards Christians as they do toward Jews, by addressing Antonio as the Christian, And let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 7) Shylock shows no mercy, at any point during this scene, even when he realizes he may not get everything he desires ‘Is that the law? Act 4, Scene 1, Line 312) he still continues to try to get the best deal he can ‘l take this offer then. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 6) Portia begins to contradict herself when she appeals to Shylock with her The quality of Mercy' speech (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 182) as throughout the scene she in fact shows no mercy, ‘Soft. The Jew shall have all justice; soft, no haste; He shall have nothing but the penalty. ‘ (ACTA, Scene 1, Line 31 8) Portia then manipulates the concept of mercy, by asking the criminal what mercy he desires towards Shylock, leaving him with nothing, not even his faith. The Merchant of Venice Parent-Child Relationship Between Jessica and Shylock in The Merchant of Venice After reading The Merchant of Venice, we should ask ourselves if Shylock, who many people perceive as tragedy stricken and victimized, is in fact so hard done by after all. When it comes to family matters, I believe that Shylock is the ultimate cause behind his awful relationship with Jessica. In this play, Shakespeare portrays an old fashioned child-parent relationship in which the child feels inferior to the parent.Shylock and Jessica lack trustworthiness, care, love, and consideration for one another. Their horrible relationship, which is a huge attribute to the play, is not due to conflicting personalities as commonly believed, but rather to the fact that Shylock is a terrible father. Over the course of the novel, Shylock and Jessica have numerous disagreements on certain issues, and Shylock is too stubborn to compromise. Firstly, when it comes to issues regarding religion, the two dispute because Jes sica is ashamed to be Jewish while Shylock takes pride in it.Jessica clearly shows how upset she is to be Jewish when she says, â€Å"Alack, what heinous sin it is in me to be asham’d to be my father’s child! But though I am a daughter to his blood, I am not to his manners† (2. 3. 18). When Jessica is speaking to Launcelot, she essentially says that she would never act like she a Jew, which displays the lack of pride and hatred she has towards this â€Å"flaw† of hers. Secondly, Shylock persistently will not give Jessica any more freedom, and the ability to make her own decisions. Before the party that Shylock decides to attend, he says to Jessica: †¦ Hear you me, Jessica.Lock up my doors, and when you hear the drum and the vile squealing of the wry-necked fife, clamber not you up to the casements then, nor thrust your head into the public street, to gaze on Christian fools with varnished faces. But stop my house’s ears—I mean my caseme nts—let not the sound of shallow foppery enter my sober house (2. 5. 27-35). Shylock gives strict instructions to Jessica to lock up the house, not reveal her face to anyone outside and not participate part in the Christian activities taking place, showing his lack of trust in her and demonstrating the restriction that Jessica is under.In many novels and other literature, not only are characters able to overcome conflicting personalities but in some cases, those are the characters that compliment each other best. Therefore, Shylock is simply stubborn preventing his relationship from progressing with Jessica. Throughout the novel, it becomes apparent that Shylock values materialistic things, putting them before Jessica. Firstly, when Jessica escapes home and her well being is questionable, Shylock’s concern lies in his possessions that she had taken with her. While speaking to Tubal, Shlock says, â€Å"I would my daughter were dead at my food and the jewels in her ear! Would she were hearsed at my foot and the ducats in her coffin! †¦ The thief gone with so much, and so much to find the thief—and no satisfaction, no revenge†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (3. 1. 79-84). This shows that Shylock is a very materialistic person and considers his daughter to be of less importance than his goods. He even goes to the extent of wishing that she was dead in front of his feet so he could take all of his precious jewels back. Secondly, throughout Venice, Shylock is known as the ‘greedy money lender’ and we see him live up to his name on a few occasions.Shylock speaks to Jessica and says, â€Å"There is some ill a-brewing towards my rest, for I did dream of money bags tonight† (2. 5. 17-18). This tells us that he knows things aren’t going in his favor because he had dreamt of money bags previously and therefor he lives up to his name of being greedy and money-oriented. As a parent, Shylock should set his priorities straight and put Jessic a before material possessions and money. Shylock is uninvolved in Jessica’s life and doesn’t invest enough effort or consideration into her. Firstly, Jessica is in love with Lorenzo, a christian, but Shylock resists stubbornly.Jessica says, â€Å"O Lorenzo, if thou keep promise, I shall end this strife, become a Christian and thy loving wife† (2. 4. 18-20). Jessica is basically admitting that life with Shylock is unpleasant and if all goes according to plan, she can marry Lorenzo and leave. Shylock is restricting her from doing this. Secondly, Shylock spends too much time worrying about his own issues in the book such as interacting with Lancelot, moneylending to Bassanio as well as others, and seeing through his promise for a pound of Antonio’s flesh. In act three, we can see a segment of Shylock’s busy life when he says: I’ll have my bond; I will not hear thee speak;I’ll have my bond, and therefore speak no more I’ll not be m ade a soft and dull-eyed fool, To shake the head, relent, and sigh, and yield To Christian intercessors. Follow not! I’ll have no speaking, I will have my bond (3. 3. 12-17). This is one of many examples of Shylock seeking Antonio’s flesh intently. As a caregiver, Shylocks priorities need to be in his children but it is apparent that his time is consumed adversely. Shylock is a terrible father because he does not involve himself in Jessica’s life enough and make time for her.Wether it’s in being too busy to take interest in Jessica, persistently restricting her, cringing at the thought of his inheritance to go to her, or being extremely money orientated, Shylock is most definitely the source of the poor father-daughter relationship between himself and Jessica. At numerous points within the novel, we can see Shylock’s lack of care, acceptance, involvement, love and trust that he has in Jessica. These are all essential behavioral traits that a caregi ver and role model should have. In conclusion, Shylock is an inadequate father to Jessica and therefore, he is more of a villain than a victim. The Merchant Of Venice Portia is also manipulative, using silent humor as to not embarrass herself, having discussed with Inertias her displeasure in the choice of suitors, she cleverly replies, ‘Yourself, renowned prince, then stood as fair as any comer I have looked on yet for my affection. ‘ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 20) this demonstrates the use of her words as not to cause embarrassment, whilst being honest and telling Inertias he literally that he had no chance. The language Shakespeare uses for Portia and Shylock is different, both Portia and Shylock are very formal in the way they speak.Shylock is formal in a polite way in the judgment scene out of respect, ‘your grace' (Act 4, Scene 1 Line 35). As a sign of nobility Portia is formal in the way that she speaks, mostly she uses verse in more important scenes such as the judgment scene, which further emphasizes her portrayal as a formal male character. However, Portion's language is far more informal when she speaks to Inertias ‘Y ou know I say nothing to him, for he hath neither Latin, French nor Italian' this clearly accentuates their relationship as close; Portia speaks to Inertias in prose.Shylock on the other hand speaks predominantly in prose showing his lower status, particularly in his conversation with Tuba, ‘How now, Tuba, what news from Genoa? Hast thou found my daughter? ‘ (Act 3, Scene 1, Line 71), enhancing the informality of the conversation, and also the lower social status of Shylock as a Jew and Tuba as a Christian. In contrast to the majority of the play where Shylock speaks mostly in prose, in the judgment scene Shylock starts his opening speech with verse, ‘l have possessed your grace of what I purpose†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. .. As losing suit against him.Are you answered? ‘ ( Act 4, Scene 1, Line 35-63) this indicates the formality of where they are and this particular occasion, towards the end of the judgment Shylock language changes to prose making it less formal, when h e no longer has the upper hand, ‘ take this offer then. Pay the bond thrice and let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1 r Line 31 6) Portia however, maintains her style of language throughout the scene which reinforces her position and the formality of the situation they are in. In the beginning Of the scene, Shylock is very in control using lengthy paragraphs and verse.He is knowledgeable about the law, ‘If you deny me, fie upon your law: There is no force in the decrees of Venice. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 101 ) and adamant that he will succeed in the debt being paid, ‘The pound of flesh which I demand of him is dearly bought; ‘its mine and I will have it. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 99) However, Portia is also both very knowledgeable of the law and very cleverly using a literal interpretation of the law to undermine Shylock case ‘The bond doth give thee here no jot of blood. The words expressly are' a pound of flesh'. ‘(ACTA, Scene 1, Line 304) going on to say ‘One rope of Christian blood†¦Are by the laws of Venice confiscate. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 308) The difference between Portia and Shylock is that Portia maintains her control. Throughout this process Shylock responses become much shorter as his confidence diminishes. By literally interpreting the words Portia manipulates Shylock to a point were he becomes submissive, ‘l pray you give me leave to go from hence; I am not well. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 3, Line 97) Portia, even she though is portraying a man still has a higher stature than Shylock even as a woman. Shylock is refereed to as ‘the Jew an insult and a means of singling IM out as a lower class of person.By calling him ‘Jew' throughout the scene the Christians are putting him in his place. By Portion's reference to Christian blood being shed as being ‘By the laws of Venice confiscate' she is indicating that Christians are more special in the eyes of the law. However, Shylock shows a similar prejudice towards Christians as they do toward Jews, by addressing Antonio as the Christian, And let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 7) Shylock shows no mercy, at any point during this scene, even when he realizes he may not get everything he desires ‘Is that the law? Act 4, Scene 1, Line 312) he still continues to try to get the best deal he can ‘l take this offer then. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 6) Portia begins to contradict herself when she appeals to Shylock with her The quality of Mercy' speech (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 182) as throughout the scene she in fact shows no mercy, ‘Soft. The Jew shall have all justice; soft, no haste; He shall have nothing but the penalty. ‘ (ACTA, Scene 1, Line 31 8) Portia then manipulates the concept of mercy, by asking the criminal what mercy he desires towards Shylock, leaving him with nothing, not even his faith. The Merchant of Venice How is your prescribed text made memorable through the interaction of ideas and the ways these ideas are represented? â€Å"The Merchant of Venice† by William Shakespeare contains many memorable themes. Through the use of techniques ideas are represented. These ideas are the power of money, conflict/prejudice between Jews and Christians and the role of women. The memorable ideas represented throughout the play are extremely important to â€Å"The Merchant of Venice† and is the reason why it is called a ‘problem play’. Shylock is often classed as the stereotypical miserably Jew, and some use his repetition of â€Å"Three thousand ducats† to show how his life is dominated and ruled by money. Shylock is obsessed with money this becomes clear in Act 2, Scene 8 as Solanio mimics Shylock’s anguished cries of repetition â€Å"My daughter! O my ducats! O my daughter†. In Act 3 Scene 1 as Tubal notifies Shylock of Jessica spending â€Å"fourscore ducats† in one night, Shylocks reaction supports the fact that he is obsessed with money, â€Å"I shall never see my gold again†. Christians and anti-Semitism are extremely important to â€Å"The Merchant of Venice†. Shylock who is constantly vilified and ridiculed by the Christians throughout the play portrays the Elizabethan era of which the play was written, and it is no coincidence that the heroes in the play are Christians and the villain is Jewish. The society, which is mostly Christians, degrades and ostracises the Jews because of the different ways of life and beliefs. Hence, the idea of anti-Semitism is brought into the play. Shylock is frequently called â€Å"the devil† (Lancelot 2:2) or linked with dehumanising imagery â€Å"cut-throat dog, this is evident in Act 1 Scene 3 as Shylock is in conversation with Antonio. Antonio thinks of the Jew when he calls Shylock a â€Å"misbeliever† and â€Å"spat upon his Jewish gabardine†. Consequently Shylock displays the same hatred and disrespect for Antonio as he publicly expresses that he â€Å"hates him for he is Christian†. The use of rhetorical questions is a vivid dramatic change, climaxing in his taunting lines: â€Å" Hath a dog money? In this play, we can see that religious prejudices outweigh justice. In the trial scene (4:1), the way in which they address Shylock as â€Å"the Jew† implies the hearing is unfavorable towards Shylock. Portia argues that there must be â€Å"no jot of blood†¦ in the cutting it†. Though this reasoning is flawed in the actual context, it is done to save a fellow Christian from a Jew. The Duke also tries to defend Antonio and ask Shylock to â€Å"forgive a moiety of the principal†. However, when Shylock is undone by Portia's interpretation of the law, none of them show â€Å"mercy† to the losses he suffers. He loses â€Å"one half of his good† to the state â€Å"the other half† to Lorenzo and Jessica upon his death and most significantly he loses his religion. The Christians put on a veil of â€Å"justice† by stating that â€Å"the Jew shall have all justice†. However, for the state of Venice to take away one's religion unwillingly to be christened shows that the rule of law is in fact, one-sided and does not serve justice for the Jews. Conclusively, it seems evident that prejudice prevails over justice. The role of women is also explored in the trial scene (4:1). The traditional idea of men and women has been subverted as Portia dresses as a man. Portia’s intellectual qualities are highlighted in the trial scene, where she illustrates her ability to reason with a legal approach â€Å"this bond is forfeit†. Portia also shows her wit and intellect as she comments on Bassanio’s will to sacrifice his wife to save Antonio, â€Å" your wife would give you little thanks for that, if she were by to hear you make the offer. Thus Portia can be regarded as the ideal compound of intellect and romance, who blots her copybook only once, and that is in her catlike playing with Shylock. Based on the play, Shakespeare exploits the themes of power of money; the role of women and the prejudice between Christians and Jew. These memorable ideas are represented primarily through the characters of Shylock and Portia , whom give us an accurate idea of Christians and Jews during the Elizabethan era. The Merchant of Venice Parent-Child Relationship Between Jessica and Shylock in The Merchant of Venice After reading The Merchant of Venice, we should ask ourselves if Shylock, who many people perceive as tragedy stricken and victimized, is in fact so hard done by after all. When it comes to family matters, I believe that Shylock is the ultimate cause behind his awful relationship with Jessica. In this play, Shakespeare portrays an old fashioned child-parent relationship in which the child feels inferior to the parent.Shylock and Jessica lack trustworthiness, care, love, and consideration for one another. Their horrible relationship, which is a huge attribute to the play, is not due to conflicting personalities as commonly believed, but rather to the fact that Shylock is a terrible father. Over the course of the novel, Shylock and Jessica have numerous disagreements on certain issues, and Shylock is too stubborn to compromise. Firstly, when it comes to issues regarding religion, the two dispute because Jes sica is ashamed to be Jewish while Shylock takes pride in it.Jessica clearly shows how upset she is to be Jewish when she says, â€Å"Alack, what heinous sin it is in me to be asham’d to be my father’s child! But though I am a daughter to his blood, I am not to his manners† (2. 3. 18). When Jessica is speaking to Launcelot, she essentially says that she would never act like she a Jew, which displays the lack of pride and hatred she has towards this â€Å"flaw† of hers. Secondly, Shylock persistently will not give Jessica any more freedom, and the ability to make her own decisions. Before the party that Shylock decides to attend, he says to Jessica: †¦ Hear you me, Jessica.Lock up my doors, and when you hear the drum and the vile squealing of the wry-necked fife, clamber not you up to the casements then, nor thrust your head into the public street, to gaze on Christian fools with varnished faces. But stop my house’s ears—I mean my caseme nts—let not the sound of shallow foppery enter my sober house (2. 5. 27-35). Shylock gives strict instructions to Jessica to lock up the house, not reveal her face to anyone outside and not participate part in the Christian activities taking place, showing his lack of trust in her and demonstrating the restriction that Jessica is under.In many novels and other literature, not only are characters able to overcome conflicting personalities but in some cases, those are the characters that compliment each other best. Therefore, Shylock is simply stubborn preventing his relationship from progressing with Jessica. Throughout the novel, it becomes apparent that Shylock values materialistic things, putting them before Jessica. Firstly, when Jessica escapes home and her well being is questionable, Shylock’s concern lies in his possessions that she had taken with her. While speaking to Tubal, Shlock says, â€Å"I would my daughter were dead at my food and the jewels in her ear! Would she were hearsed at my foot and the ducats in her coffin! †¦ The thief gone with so much, and so much to find the thief—and no satisfaction, no revenge†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (3. 1. 79-84). This shows that Shylock is a very materialistic person and considers his daughter to be of less importance than his goods. He even goes to the extent of wishing that she was dead in front of his feet so he could take all of his precious jewels back. Secondly, throughout Venice, Shylock is known as the ‘greedy money lender’ and we see him live up to his name on a few occasions.Shylock speaks to Jessica and says, â€Å"There is some ill a-brewing towards my rest, for I did dream of money bags tonight† (2. 5. 17-18). This tells us that he knows things aren’t going in his favor because he had dreamt of money bags previously and therefor he lives up to his name of being greedy and money-oriented. As a parent, Shylock should set his priorities straight and put Jessic a before material possessions and money. Shylock is uninvolved in Jessica’s life and doesn’t invest enough effort or consideration into her. Firstly, Jessica is in love with Lorenzo, a christian, but Shylock resists stubbornly.Jessica says, â€Å"O Lorenzo, if thou keep promise, I shall end this strife, become a Christian and thy loving wife† (2. 4. 18-20). Jessica is basically admitting that life with Shylock is unpleasant and if all goes according to plan, she can marry Lorenzo and leave. Shylock is restricting her from doing this. Secondly, Shylock spends too much time worrying about his own issues in the book such as interacting with Lancelot, moneylending to Bassanio as well as others, and seeing through his promise for a pound of Antonio’s flesh. In act three, we can see a segment of Shylock’s busy life when he says: I’ll have my bond; I will not hear thee speak;I’ll have my bond, and therefore speak no more I’ll not be m ade a soft and dull-eyed fool, To shake the head, relent, and sigh, and yield To Christian intercessors. Follow not! I’ll have no speaking, I will have my bond (3. 3. 12-17). This is one of many examples of Shylock seeking Antonio’s flesh intently. As a caregiver, Shylocks priorities need to be in his children but it is apparent that his time is consumed adversely. Shylock is a terrible father because he does not involve himself in Jessica’s life enough and make time for her.Wether it’s in being too busy to take interest in Jessica, persistently restricting her, cringing at the thought of his inheritance to go to her, or being extremely money orientated, Shylock is most definitely the source of the poor father-daughter relationship between himself and Jessica. At numerous points within the novel, we can see Shylock’s lack of care, acceptance, involvement, love and trust that he has in Jessica. These are all essential behavioral traits that a caregi ver and role model should have. In conclusion, Shylock is an inadequate father to Jessica and therefore, he is more of a villain than a victim. The Merchant of Venice How is your prescribed text made memorable through the interaction of ideas and the ways these ideas are represented? â€Å"The Merchant of Venice† by William Shakespeare contains many memorable themes. Through the use of techniques ideas are represented. These ideas are the power of money, conflict/prejudice between Jews and Christians and the role of women. The memorable ideas represented throughout the play are extremely important to â€Å"The Merchant of Venice† and is the reason why it is called a ‘problem play’. Shylock is often classed as the stereotypical miserably Jew, and some use his repetition of â€Å"Three thousand ducats† to show how his life is dominated and ruled by money. Shylock is obsessed with money this becomes clear in Act 2, Scene 8 as Solanio mimics Shylock’s anguished cries of repetition â€Å"My daughter! O my ducats! O my daughter†. In Act 3 Scene 1 as Tubal notifies Shylock of Jessica spending â€Å"fourscore ducats† in one night, Shylocks reaction supports the fact that he is obsessed with money, â€Å"I shall never see my gold again†. Christians and anti-Semitism are extremely important to â€Å"The Merchant of Venice†. Shylock who is constantly vilified and ridiculed by the Christians throughout the play portrays the Elizabethan era of which the play was written, and it is no coincidence that the heroes in the play are Christians and the villain is Jewish. The society, which is mostly Christians, degrades and ostracises the Jews because of the different ways of life and beliefs. Hence, the idea of anti-Semitism is brought into the play. Shylock is frequently called â€Å"the devil† (Lancelot 2:2) or linked with dehumanising imagery â€Å"cut-throat dog, this is evident in Act 1 Scene 3 as Shylock is in conversation with Antonio. Antonio thinks of the Jew when he calls Shylock a â€Å"misbeliever† and â€Å"spat upon his Jewish gabardine†. Consequently Shylock displays the same hatred and disrespect for Antonio as he publicly expresses that he â€Å"hates him for he is Christian†. The use of rhetorical questions is a vivid dramatic change, climaxing in his taunting lines: â€Å" Hath a dog money? In this play, we can see that religious prejudices outweigh justice. In the trial scene (4:1), the way in which they address Shylock as â€Å"the Jew† implies the hearing is unfavorable towards Shylock. Portia argues that there must be â€Å"no jot of blood†¦ in the cutting it†. Though this reasoning is flawed in the actual context, it is done to save a fellow Christian from a Jew. The Duke also tries to defend Antonio and ask Shylock to â€Å"forgive a moiety of the principal†. However, when Shylock is undone by Portia's interpretation of the law, none of them show â€Å"mercy† to the losses he suffers. He loses â€Å"one half of his good† to the state â€Å"the other half† to Lorenzo and Jessica upon his death and most significantly he loses his religion. The Christians put on a veil of â€Å"justice† by stating that â€Å"the Jew shall have all justice†. However, for the state of Venice to take away one's religion unwillingly to be christened shows that the rule of law is in fact, one-sided and does not serve justice for the Jews. Conclusively, it seems evident that prejudice prevails over justice. The role of women is also explored in the trial scene (4:1). The traditional idea of men and women has been subverted as Portia dresses as a man. Portia’s intellectual qualities are highlighted in the trial scene, where she illustrates her ability to reason with a legal approach â€Å"this bond is forfeit†. Portia also shows her wit and intellect as she comments on Bassanio’s will to sacrifice his wife to save Antonio, â€Å" your wife would give you little thanks for that, if she were by to hear you make the offer. Thus Portia can be regarded as the ideal compound of intellect and romance, who blots her copybook only once, and that is in her catlike playing with Shylock. Based on the play, Shakespeare exploits the themes of power of money; the role of women and the prejudice between Christians and Jew. These memorable ideas are represented primarily through the characters of Shylock and Portia , whom give us an accurate idea of Christians and Jews during the Elizabethan era. The Merchant Of Venice Portia is also manipulative, using silent humor as to not embarrass herself, having discussed with Inertias her displeasure in the choice of suitors, she cleverly replies, ‘Yourself, renowned prince, then stood as fair as any comer I have looked on yet for my affection. ‘ (Act 2, Scene 1, Line 20) this demonstrates the use of her words as not to cause embarrassment, whilst being honest and telling Inertias he literally that he had no chance. The language Shakespeare uses for Portia and Shylock is different, both Portia and Shylock are very formal in the way they speak.Shylock is formal in a polite way in the judgment scene out of respect, ‘your grace' (Act 4, Scene 1 Line 35). As a sign of nobility Portia is formal in the way that she speaks, mostly she uses verse in more important scenes such as the judgment scene, which further emphasizes her portrayal as a formal male character. However, Portion's language is far more informal when she speaks to Inertias ‘Y ou know I say nothing to him, for he hath neither Latin, French nor Italian' this clearly accentuates their relationship as close; Portia speaks to Inertias in prose.Shylock on the other hand speaks predominantly in prose showing his lower status, particularly in his conversation with Tuba, ‘How now, Tuba, what news from Genoa? Hast thou found my daughter? ‘ (Act 3, Scene 1, Line 71), enhancing the informality of the conversation, and also the lower social status of Shylock as a Jew and Tuba as a Christian. In contrast to the majority of the play where Shylock speaks mostly in prose, in the judgment scene Shylock starts his opening speech with verse, ‘l have possessed your grace of what I purpose†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. .. As losing suit against him.Are you answered? ‘ ( Act 4, Scene 1, Line 35-63) this indicates the formality of where they are and this particular occasion, towards the end of the judgment Shylock language changes to prose making it less formal, when h e no longer has the upper hand, ‘ take this offer then. Pay the bond thrice and let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1 r Line 31 6) Portia however, maintains her style of language throughout the scene which reinforces her position and the formality of the situation they are in. In the beginning Of the scene, Shylock is very in control using lengthy paragraphs and verse.He is knowledgeable about the law, ‘If you deny me, fie upon your law: There is no force in the decrees of Venice. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 101 ) and adamant that he will succeed in the debt being paid, ‘The pound of flesh which I demand of him is dearly bought; ‘its mine and I will have it. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 99) However, Portia is also both very knowledgeable of the law and very cleverly using a literal interpretation of the law to undermine Shylock case ‘The bond doth give thee here no jot of blood. The words expressly are' a pound of flesh'. ‘(ACTA, Scene 1, Line 304) going on to say ‘One rope of Christian blood†¦Are by the laws of Venice confiscate. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 308) The difference between Portia and Shylock is that Portia maintains her control. Throughout this process Shylock responses become much shorter as his confidence diminishes. By literally interpreting the words Portia manipulates Shylock to a point were he becomes submissive, ‘l pray you give me leave to go from hence; I am not well. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 3, Line 97) Portia, even she though is portraying a man still has a higher stature than Shylock even as a woman. Shylock is refereed to as ‘the Jew an insult and a means of singling IM out as a lower class of person.By calling him ‘Jew' throughout the scene the Christians are putting him in his place. By Portion's reference to Christian blood being shed as being ‘By the laws of Venice confiscate' she is indicating that Christians are more special in the eyes of the law. However, Shylock shows a similar prejudice towards Christians as they do toward Jews, by addressing Antonio as the Christian, And let the Christian go. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 7) Shylock shows no mercy, at any point during this scene, even when he realizes he may not get everything he desires ‘Is that the law? Act 4, Scene 1, Line 312) he still continues to try to get the best deal he can ‘l take this offer then. ‘ (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 31 6) Portia begins to contradict herself when she appeals to Shylock with her The quality of Mercy' speech (Act 4, Scene 1, Line 182) as throughout the scene she in fact shows no mercy, ‘Soft. The Jew shall have all justice; soft, no haste; He shall have nothing but the penalty. ‘ (ACTA, Scene 1, Line 31 8) Portia then manipulates the concept of mercy, by asking the criminal what mercy he desires towards Shylock, leaving him with nothing, not even his faith.