Jose Marti

How interesting that this writing, over one hundred years ago, could be so on point with what society is experiencing today. Instead of the US Congress participating in non-binding arbitration and pontificating about Iraq and the war, taxpayers’ money would be better spent copying “Our America” and disseminating it to each member of congress.

Sentimental Education

Another book that was well written, but not enjoyable because the characters were so dis-likable.  When I first began reading Sentimental Education, I thought it would be an enjoyable read.  However, I was quickly disappointed.  The characters lack of work ethic, frivolous discussions, and on-going partying left a lot to be desired.  They were self-entitled and complained about everything, but did nothing to change it.

 

The main character, Frederic, exemplifies the idleness and lack of motivation demonstrated throughout the book.  Frederic spends his days stalking Madame Arnoux and conversing with his mother about the money they hope Frederic will inherit.  Instead of focusing on his studies and a career in law, after all he attended law school; Frederic obsesses about Madame Arnoux running through the streets searching for her and meeting up with her husband to talk about “art.”  If someone wants to read a book that exemplifies laziness and lack of substance in people, this would be the one.

Candide

Candide

I never thought that eighteenth century literature would be so entertaining. I came into this class thinking it would be interesting, but that some of the literature would be dry and boring. However, while reading Candide, I found myself laughing aloud at the melodrama of each of the characters. I didn’t find myself in deep thought about how this piece of work pertained to the many characteristics of the Enlightenment, but instead thought about how people’s thoughts, beliefs, and lifestyles have not changed too dramatically from Candide’s time to the present.

One aspect of Candide that I found to be particularly humorous was the ongoing misery that the characters encounter. Each character tells his/her pitiful story, attempting to outdo the other with his/her story of suffering and sorrow. As much as I wanted to sympathize with those characters, I couldn’t. I wanted each character to get over his/her misery and put himself/herself in a position to achieve the happiness each one claimed they desired. For example, Candide finds himself in El Dorado, the “perfect” city. Candide is in the “perfect” city and no longer subjected to beatings and violence, yet he is still dissatisfied. Candide’s dissatisfaction continues throughout the entire novel. Candide finally gets his “true love” only to find that her beauty has disappeared and she is a crotchety and nagging old woman. I believe that Candide finally accepts his fate when he is working his land. Candide realizes that he will never obtain true happiness because he will always search for more.

Melissa

I am a second semester Spanish graduate student.  I have not taken a literature class in over 6 years.  However, I am looking forward to this class.