This blog is based upon Flipped learning on Existentialism.
For Videos and reading resources you can Visit here
Here are Thoughts that i like the most in Videos
Video 1 (01:23) What is Existentialism?
The Triangle of Individuality, Passion and freedom.
Video 2 (02:58) The Myth of Sisyphus: The Absurd Reasoning
In that Video There is a two judgment and there is no necessary commn measure between these :-
1) Life is Meaningless
2) Is there's a logic to the point of death?
● I cannot know unless I pursue, without reckless passion, in the sole light of evience, the reasoning of which I am here suggesting the source. This is what I call an absurd reasoning.
Video 3 (01:39) The Myth of Sisyphus: The notion on of Philosophical Suicide.
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These three, A total absence of hope, A Continual rejection, Conscious dissatisfaction, leads to Philosophical Suicide.
In the third video(02:32) i also impressed by this thought.
Video 4 Dadaism, Nihilism and Existentialism
In video 4 I impressed by this thought:- People live a Complete lie, they live because of what everyone tells them that's what one does. This cnn be a scary realisation as most people are not aware of this, they see everything they do as their own choice.
Video 5 Existentialism: a gloomy philosophy
I Impressed by this thought:- Most Importantly it is you should judge values and choose your own meaning in life and once you done that you should take responsibilities for the choice you made and accept the consequences of it.
Video 6 Existentialism and Nihilism: it is one and the same?
In video 6 i like this thought:
There is nothing beyond this life we renounce any other worldly hope, this leads us to accept that we are positioned in a closed system without any connection to beyond all we have is the system.
Video 7 Let us introduce Existentialism again!
“[Existentialism] is an attitude that recognizes the unresolvable confusion of the human world, yet resists the all-too-human temptation to resolve the confusion by grasping toward whatever appears or can be made to appear firm or familiar . . .
Video 8 Explain like I'm Five: Existentialism and Nietzsche:
There is no universal morality that governs all of us in fact deciding what's bad and what's good - Nietzsche
Video 9 Why I like Existentialism? Eric Dodson
In video 9 I like this thoughts :-
#10: Question what you've been told
#9: _Start relating to the big picture
#8: Honor life's difficult experiences
#7: Lay claim to your power in life
#6: See how free you can be
# 5: Learn to live with passion
#4: Inhabit the present moment
#3: Recover the ability to play
# 2: Build responsible community
#1: Remember that you're born to a brilliant and terrifying universe...
Video 10: Let us sum up: From Essentialism to Existentialism
A sense of meaing is something that we all crave - maybe even need.
● Which video do you like the most? Why?
I like video #9 because it talks about questioning what we're told and connecting with the bigger picture. It also suggests embracing life's challenges and realizing our own power, which aligns with existentialism. The video not only introduces these ideas but also gives practical advice on applying them to our daily lives, making it insightful and helpful.
● How would you describe the 'learning outcome' of this activity?
This activity really helped me understand Existentialism better. Now i feel more confident and capable of speaking or writing about Existentialism. The clarity gained through this experience has boosted my confidence in discussing the philosophy. It's like I've got a clearer picture in my mind, making me feel confident about expressing my thoughts on Existentialism.
This blog is based upon thinking activity on The novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
1) Explore, through MKBU eLibrary. JSTOR articles on 'Unreliable Narration' or 'False Prophet of the American Dream' Review the articles and write about them.
Unreliable Narration
Thomas E. Boyle is talking about "The Great Gatsby" and how people look at it differently. Some see it as a deep and philosophical book, while others see it as a comment on society or history. Boyle thinks people often miss the artistic side of the novel. He mentions that "The Great Gatsby" has been analyzed in various ways, such as metaphysics, sociology, and intellectual history, but he believes that its aesthetic value is sometimes overlooked.
He introduces Wayne C. Booth's idea of "distance," which means there's a gap between what the author wants, what the narrator says, and what the reader understands. Boyle argues that understanding a novel and deriving aesthetic pleasure from it comes from looking closely at the words, sounds, rhythms, and ideas within the story. He introduces Wayne C. Booth's concept of "distance," which is the gap between the author's perception, the norms of the novel, the narrator's perspective, and the reader's understanding. If this distance exists, it suggests an unreliable narrator, making it challenging for readers to infer the correct meaning.
Boyle disagrees with Booth's conclusions about the character Nick Carraway, the narrator of "The Great Gatsby." Booth suggests that Nick has a minor role and provides reliable guidance. Boyle, on the other hand, argues against this perspective, contending that Nick's role is more significant and that there is a deeper complexity to his narrative that Booth overlooks.
Thomas E. Boyle's article about "The Great Gatsby" is a thought-provoking read. Boyle brings a fresh perspective and urging readers to appreciate the artistic side of the novel. His emphasis on analyzing words, sounds, and ideas adds a layer of depth to understanding literature. Boyle's exploration of Wayne C. Booth's concept of "distance" sparks curiosity, encouraging readers to think more deeply about the narrator's role.
But, the Article might be a bit too critical for some readers. While he challenges traditional views, his tone can come off as dismissive of other interpretations.
Unreliability of Nick Carraway
Nick's first meeting with Gatsby: This encounter could be interpreted as Gatsby carefully orchestrating a chance encounter, or it could be seen as a genuine attempt at connection, depending on how Nick perceives Gatsby's intentions.
Nick and Gatsby gazing at the green light across the bay: This iconic image could symbolize Gatsby's longing for Daisy and the unattainable American Dream. However, it could also be interpreted as Nick projecting his own desires and anxieties onto Gatsby.
False Prophet of the American Dream
Roger L. Pearson's article is all about the "American dream" in literature. The American dream is like a big idea that says anyone in America, no matter where they come from, can chase and achieve their goals, whether those goals are about politics, money, or being popular. It's like saying America is a place full of opportunities.
Pearson talks about lots of famous writers like William Bradford and Walt Whitman, who all had their own way of talking about the American dream. Some thought it was about feeling spiritually fulfilled, while others believed it was achieving political success or becoming a self-made person.
F. Scott Fitzgerald, a writer from the 1900s, is linked a lot with the American dream. But Pearson says that Fitzgerald's take on it is not as hopeful as what others before him thought. Fitzgerald saw the American dream at its peak during the lively time after World War I, known as the "Roaring Twenties." In his famous book "The Great Gatsby," the main character, Jay Gatsby, represents the fulfillment of the American dream according to Fitzgerald.
Pearson explains all this using a metaphor, comparing the earlier writers to Old Testament prophets talking about a coming golden age. In this comparison, Gatsby becomes Fitzgerald's way of saying the American dream finally came true.
Roger L. Pearson's article provides an insightful exploration of the American Dream in literature, particularly focusing on F. Scott Fitzgerald's association with this theme. Pearson explaining the historical context of the American Dream, tracing its roots in early American writings. The article also sheds light on Fitzgerald's unique take on the American Dream, emphasizing that his portrayal differs from the optimism seen in earlier works.
Pearson introduces the metaphor of Fitzgerald as a modern-day prophet, with Jay Gatsby serving as the embodiment of the American Dream. The article successfully captures the essence of Fitzgerald's role as the voice of the "Jazz Age" and highlights the significance of Gatsby as a symbol in "The Great Gatsby."
Scenes exemplifying the False American Dream in The Great Gatsby:
1. Gatsby's Lavish Parties:
These extravagant gatherings showcase the materialistic excess associated with the pursuit of the American Dream in the 1920s.
However, the emptiness and shallowness beneath the surface highlight the hollowness of achieving success through wealth alone.
Opens in a new windowwww.inquiriesjournal.com
2. Gatsby Reaching for Daisy:
Gatsby's relentless pursuit of Daisy symbolizes his obsession with achieving an idealized past and the associated status he believes she represents.
His extravagant lifestyle and parties are ultimately a means to impress Daisy, demonstrating the shallow and misguided approach to the American Dream.
This desolate wasteland, contrasting the extravagance of Gatsby's world, represents the darker side of the American Dream.
It signifies the exploitation and social inequalities that fuel the pursuit of wealth and the disregard for those left behind.
References
Boyle, Thomas E. “Unreliable Narration in ‘The Great Gatsby.’” The Bulletin of the Rocky Mountain Modern Language Association, vol. 23, no. 1, 1969, pp. 21–26. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/1346578. Accessed 24 Feb. 2024.
Pearson, Roger L. “Gatsby: False Prophet of the American Dream.” The English Journal, vol. 59, no. 5, 1970, pp. 638–45. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/813939. Accessed 24 Feb. 2024.
● Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship?
Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West's relationship was characterized by a deep and multifaceted connection. Initially, they were close friends, both being part of the Bloomsbury Group, a gathering of intellectuals in London. As their friendship deepened, it evolved into a romantic and intimate relationship, transcending conventional boundaries.
Their emotional and physical bond was unconventional for the time, and it had a profound impact on Woolf's creative output.
In their relationship, it seems Vita was the one taking advantage, especially considering her numerous affairs. In examining the dynamics between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, it appears that Vita was more assertive in the relationship. Not only did she have multiple affairs, suggesting a lack of commitment, but she also seemed to exert control. Virginia Woolf, known for her vulnerability and struggles with mental health, may have been more affected by this power dynamic.
In the relationship between Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, it's essential to consider both perspectives. While Vita had affairs, indicating a certain level of independence, Virginia's unique literary genius and creative insight added significant depth to the relationship. Virginia, despite her struggles, brought intellectual and artistic richness that complemented Vita's adventurous spirit. Both individuals contributed in their own ways, creating a dynamic where mutual influence and inspiration were likely present.
Therefore, the relationship can be seen as a balanced exchange of strengths and vulnerabilities between Vita and Virginia.
● Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.
Virginia Woolf, the author, struggled with her identity throughout her life. She faced mental health challenges and grappled with societal expectations. One illustration of her identity confusion can be seen in her novel "Orlando," where the protagonist undergoes a gender transformation, reflecting Virginia's own exploration of identity.
Moreover, in her personal writings, Virginia often expressed a sense of detachment and a search for her true self. Her struggles with mental illness, depicted in her diaries and letters, further illustrate the complexity of her identity. The constant evolution of her writing style and themes across her works also suggests an ongoing exploration of who she was.
Virginia Woolf's literary works, particularly "Orlando," along with her personal writings, serve as illustrations of her enduring struggle and confusion regarding her own identity.
● What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?
Society often has fixed ideas about how women should behave and the roles they should play. These expectations can limit women to predefined norms and stereotypes. However, I disagree with these views.
Many societies historically expected women to conform to specific roles and behaviors.Many women face pressure to conform to certain norms, which can limit their ability to express their true selves. This can make it hard for them to be themselves. Breaking away from these expectations and figuring out who they really are can be tough for women. They have to deal with what society thinks they should be like and try to stay true to themselves in a world that often has strict rules for how women should act.
I strongly believe that men and women should have equal opportunities. Women should be free to be themselves without being held back by strict expectations. We need to challenge and break down stereotypes that hold women back, creating a more inclusive and empowering environment that values the diverse and unique contributions of women in our communities.
● Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.
The Victorian era, spanning from the early 19th century to the early 20th century, was characterized by a strict set of societal norms and values.
For women, life was tough because they had to follow specific roles. Society believed women should be modest, take care of the home, and obey men. Basically, women were expected to focus on being good homemakers. They didn't have many chances to do other things outside the house, like getting a good education or having jobs. These strict ideas about how women should live made life challenging for them during that time.
Society had strict rules, especially about how men and women should behave. The movie "Vita and Virginia" and Woolf's novel "Orlando" show us a glimpse of what life was like then. Back then, things were mainly controlled by men, and women had limited options.
In "Orlando," Woolf challenged these ideas by exploring the idea that gender and identity aren't fixed. The movie "Vita and Virginia" talks about Woolf's relationships and how women faced difficulties in pursuing intellectual and creative paths.
●Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?
Trailer of the Movie
The movie about Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West shows how their relationship was complicated. It explores their deep connection, looking at the details of their thoughts and feelings for each other. The movie jumps between the past and present to reveal different aspects of their lives and how it affected their creativity.
In the movie, certain things like the meetings of the Bloomsbury Group represent freedom of thought and thinking in unusual ways. The big open spaces, especially the gardens, are like symbols for how Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West's relationship grew and changed over time.
The First Meeting (Library Scene)
This scene features the initial spark between Vita and Virginia in a library setting, surrounded by books and intellectual discourse. It symbolizes the meeting of minds and the attraction to shared passions.
Pay attention to the subtle glances, the use of language, and the comfortable silences that suggest a potential for a deeper connection.
The Boat Scene (Sussex)
This scene shows Vita and Virginia rowing on a lake, surrounded by natural beauty. The water acts as a mirror, reflecting their emotions and insecurities.
Focus on the symbolism of the water – fluidity, vulnerability, and the shared journey they undertake. Notice how the scene captures their moments of laughter and connection amidst their unspoken tensions.
The Writing Scene (Monk's House)
This scene portrays Virginia struggling with writer's block while Vita observes and encourages her. The act of writing symbolizes their creative processes and how they inspire each other.
Consider the power dynamics at play and how the scene reflects their artistic influences and challenges. Observe how the shared space facilitates intellectual exchange and emotional support.
The Final Letter Scene (Monk's House)
This scene shows Virginia reading a heartfelt letter from Vita after their tumultuous relationship has ended. The letter symbolizes their enduring connection and the lasting impact they have on each other.
Analyze the language of the letter, focusing on themes of love, loss, and acceptance. Consider how the scene portrays the complexities of their bond and the bittersweet end to their journey.
The Garden Scene (Knole)
There's a really interesting part in the movie where Virginia and Vita have a deep talk in a beautiful garden. The nature and the specific place they're in make their emotional conversation more meaningful and important in the movie.
● Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia?
For the role of Virginia Woolf I prefered Katrina kaif and Kalki koechlin as Vita Sackville-West.
The Waste Land, a modernist masterpiece by T.S. Eliot, explores post-World War I disillusionment. Its central theme revolves around societal decay, spiritual desolation, and the quest for redemption. Through fragmented narratives and cultural allusions, Eliot paints a bleak portrait of a fractured world, seeking renewal amidst the ruins of civilization.
● Do you think that Eliot is regressive as compared to Nietzsche's views? or Has Eliot achieved universality of thought by recalling the mytho-historical answer to contemporary malaise?
Comparing T.S. Eliot and Friedrich Nietzsche as thinkers addressing societal malaise is like comparing two doctors with contrasting approaches. Both diagnose a sick society, but their prescriptions diverge significantly, sparking the question of whether Eliot regresses towards the past or offers a universally applicable solution.
Nietzsche, the Radical Surgeon:
Diagnosis: A stagnant, conformist society clinging to outdated religious and moral values.
Potential Risks: This individualistic approach can be isolating and potentially lead to destructive nihilism if misconstrued. Not everyone possesses the strength or self-awareness to navigate such a path.
Eliot, the Nostalgic Physician:
Diagnosis: A fragmented, spiritually bankrupt society lacking a sense of shared identity and purpose.
Prescription: Returning to the wisdom and myths of the past, particularly shared cultural and religious traditions, to rediscover meaning and cohesion. He draws heavily on European and Christian narratives, potentially excluding those from different backgrounds.
Potential Limitations: This approach risks neglecting the need for change and adaptation in response to evolving societal structures and values. It might not resonate with everyone, particularly those critical of past traditions or seeking alternative sources of meaning.
Universality vs. Contextual Relevance:
Eliot's emphasis on shared traditions offers a potential path to unity and meaning, but its universality becomes debatable. Can his "mytho-historical answers" resonate equally across diverse cultures and experiences? Conversely, Nietzsche's individualistic approach, while potentially empowering, might exacerbate the very isolation and fragmentation he diagnoses.
● Gustaf Hellström of the Swedish Academy made these remarks: (read in the blog)
What are your views regarding these comments? Is it true that giving free vent to the repressed 'primitive instinct' leads us to a happy and satisfied life? Or do you agree with Eliot's view that 'salvation of man lies in the preservation of the cultural tradition'?
1. Freedom and Instinct:
This view suggests happiness comes from expressing our natural desires and instincts without restraint. It may involve pursuing excitement, pleasure, and personal freedom. Imagine feeling truly wild and free, following your natural urges.
2. Tradition and Order:
This view suggests happiness comes and customs passed down through generations. It may involve adhering to a moral code, finding meaning in community, and respecting history. Imagine finding comfort and purpose in shared traditions and values
● Write about allusions to Indian thoughts in 'The Waste Land'. (Where, How and Why are the Indian thoughts referred?)
Certainly! In T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land," allusions to Indian thoughts are prominently featured, particularly in the "Fire Sermon" section. The poem draws upon Buddhist philosophy, specifically the Buddha's Fire Sermon, where desire is identified as a root cause of suffering. This connection between spiritual desolation and the Buddhist notion of desire adds depth to Eliot's exploration of the disillusionment and fragmentation in the aftermath of World War I.
Moreover, Hindu influences are woven into the fabric of the poem, notably through the character Tiresias. Tiresias, experiencing different genders, echoes the fluidity seen in certain Hindu deities. This incorporation of diverse religious and philosophical elements underscores Eliot's thematic exploration of spiritual crisis and the search for meaning in a seemingly barren contemporary landscape.
The choice to include these Indian thoughts in "The Waste Land" serves a purpose beyond mere cultural reference. Eliot utilizes these allusions to emphasize the pervasive sense of spiritual emptiness and the urgent need for renewal in the face of societal decay. By drawing on Eastern philosophies, the poem invites readers to reflect on the universal human condition and the quest for transcendence amidst the chaos of the modern world.
● it possible to read 'The Waste Land' as a Pandemic Poem?
"The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot can be seen as a pandemic poem due to its exploration of societal breakdown and spiritual desolation, reflecting the aftermath of World War I. The fragmented narrative and references to a post-apocalyptic world resonate with the sense of disarray and despair that often accompanies global crises, including pandemics.
In a more detailed explanation, Eliot's "The Waste Land" captures the collective disillusionment and fragmentation that followed the First World War. This resonates with the disorienting and chaotic experiences that often accompany pandemics. The poem's depiction of a desolate landscape mirrors the social, cultural, and psychological aftermath of widespread crises, including the isolation, loss, and uncertainty that people face during such times.
The poem's exploration of spiritual emptiness and the quest for meaning in a seemingly barren world parallels the existential questions that arise during pandemics. Eliot's use of cultural and religious allusions, combined with a tone of despair, reflects the disintegration of societal norms and the search for renewal—a theme that may resonate with individuals grappling with the profound changes brought about by pandemics.
In essence, "The Waste Land" can be interpreted as a poignant commentary on the human condition in times of crisis, making it relevant to the emotional and societal challenges posed by pandemics.
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