Friday, February 11, 2011

Activities in Aesthetic Principles

Through a diary one often writes about the factual events as a recording of their life, though, Cecily uses her diary for entirely different purposes. Cecily’s diary “…is a young girl’s record of her own thoughts and impressions…” however the thoughts and impressions may not be true but instead a work of art delving from deep in Cecily’s dreams and hopes. Instead of facing the truth of a chosen husband she fantasizes about her guardians troublesome brother, Ernest Worthing, and uses this vision as a way to spice up her life. Thus this desire is evident as a social faux pas, as troublesome Ernest Worthing would not be an acceptable husband in society; yet Cecily justifies it in her journal with an artistic sense of danger and intrigue. Through Algernon, Wilde illustrates this concept in a more apparent way. Algernon can’t play the piano accurately and justifies his ill playing as a form of expression and feeling; a work of art instead of admitting that he can’t play the piano well. On the other hand, the people of the Victorian Era often overlooked art in times that it seemed most important. Miss Prism easily pushes upon Cecily that schooling holds favor over watering the flowers (a small but nonetheless form of artistic expression), “…Surely such a utilitarian occupation as the watering of flowers is rather Moulton’s duty than yours?” Yet whether Miss Prism acknowledges it or not the importance of watering the flowers is undeniable. There is an artistic sense about it, a release, and an escape that is dreadfully important but not justified; showing not only the hypocrisy of the Victorian Era but also means of using art as a main way to leave duties behind.

Questions:
1) Are there any words I'm using to much?
2) Do the transistions flow well?
3) Does what I'm saying make sense?
4) Is the contrasting point a good or bad point?
5) Is there anything it's missing or that isn't clear?

2 comments:

  1. Tali-
    I think that this sounds great! My only comment is at the beginning of the first sentence, you say "thus this." To me that is a little awkward. Otherwise it sounds good and I think it will flow nicely with the rest of the piece.

    Ragan

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  2. I think this is really good! Just make sure to always (clearly) relate back to the thesis so our audience can catch up! Great job!

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