Case Sharp Printing Essay Example for Free

Case Sharp Printing Essay Three years ago the Sharp Printing (SP) strategic management group set a goal of having a color laser printer available for the consumer and small business market for less than $200. A few months later the senior management met off-site to discuss the new product. The results of this meeting were a set of general technical specifications along with major deliverables, a product launch date, and a cost estimate based on prior experience. Shortly afterward, a meeting was arranged for middle management explaining the project goals, major responsibilities, the project start date, and importance of meeting the product launch date within the cost estimate. Members of all departments involved attended the meeting. Excitement was high. Although everyone saw the risks as high, the promised rewards for the company and the personnel were emblazoned in their minds. A few participants questioned the legitimacy of the project duration and cost estimates. A couple of RD people were worried about the technology required to produce the high-quality product for less than $200. But given the excitement of the moment, everyone agreed the project was worth doing and doable. The color laser printer project was to have the highest project priority in the company. Lauren was selected to be the project manager. She had 15 years of experience in printer design and manufacture, which included successful management of several projects related to printers for commercial markets. Since she was one of those uncomfortable with the project cost and time estimates, she felt getting good bottom-up time and cost estimates for the deliverables was her first concern. She quickly had a meeting with the significant stakeholders to create a WBS identifying the work packages and organizational unit responsible for implementing the work packages. Lauren stressed she wanted time and cost estimates from those who would do the work or were the most knowledgeable, if possible. Getting estimates from more than one source was encouraged. Estimates were due in two weeks. The compiled estimates were placed in the WBS/OBS. The corresponding cost estimate seemed to be in error. The cost estimate was $1,250,000 over the senior management estimate; this represents about a 20 percent overrun! The time estimate from the developed project network was only four months over the top management time estimate. Another meeting was scheduled with the significant stakeholders to check the estimates and to brainstorm for alternative solutions; the cost and time estimates appeared to be reasonable. Some of the suggestions for the brainstorming session are listed below.

Festivals in Davao Region Essay Example for Free

Festivals in Davao Region Essay Held annually in the city of Tagum, Davao del Norte during February 21-27, Musikahan Festival also known as Musikahan sa Tagum, is a distinct cultural event celebrating Filipino excellence in music through composition, performance and production, providing the youth with more opportunities in the music industry as its goal. Local government of Tagum provides musical instruments to public schools aiming to amplify music appreciation and enhance the skills in performance of the youth in the field of music and prepare them for a bright future in music career. Also, Tagum City facilitates the participation of local barangay units in various music competitons not only to enrich cultural literacy but also as an opportunity to gain support in the development projects of local communities. Musikahan Festival is a weeklong musical celebration that also aims to promote Tagum City as the Music Capital of Mindanao and have now finally made a mark in the music scene as Department of Tourism have officially included the event as one of the countrys pride festivals .Already earning popularism, the city of Tagum plans to bid for a Guinness Record for the longest nonstop live concert in the world. Current holder of the title is Japan with a record of 184 hours. About 5,000 members of contingents from the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Malaybalay, Marawi, Cotabato, Butuan, and Davao, of participants alone not including the visitors, compete in various musical contests which is expected to triple the income of business establishments in Tagum City. Musikahan Festival also aims to provide employment and livelihood for the townspeople. The City of Tagum claims that visitors who would take part in the celebration will be the cause for the city to have substantial multiplier effect to its businesses for they are sure to buy goods in the markets. Revelers can avail food at reasonable prices as booths are scattered in almost every part of the venue during the Musikahan Festival. Holding of the event is also an opportunity for tourism investments for hotels and malls, which is continously flourishing along with the citys development. Among the festivals highlights are the Battle of the Bands which divided into three categories: Folksong / Acoustic / Bossa Nova, Reggae / Ska / Emo, and Pop / Rock / Alternative category, the Drum and Bugle Corps / Chorale Competition category, and the Marching Brass Band Competition. Kadayawan Festival From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search The Kadayawan Festival is an annual festival in the city of Davao in the Philippines. Its name derives from the friendly greeting Madayaw, from the Dabawenyo word dayaw, meaning good, valuable, superior or beautiful. The festival is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest and serenity of living. Indak-indak sa Kadalanan. Indak-indak sa Kadalanan. Kadayawan Festival 2012 Kadayawan Festival 2012 Kadayawan Festival 2012 Davao Events and Festivals Davao, Philippines offers visitors a rich array of events and festivals throughout the year that highlight its unique cultural identity and history. HotelTravel.com highlights the key events and festivals in Davao from month to month, providing visitors with a huge choice of possible choice to play that once in a lifetime holiday around. Each one brings to life why Davao is so representative of people from Philippines. Click the events and festival links below for further information. Davao has a busy calendar of events which includes both holidays that are celebrated by the entire nation and a variety of celebrations that are exclusive to the region. Religion plays a big part in local festivities, with the largest events generally revolving around Roman Catholicism. Below are the most popular festivals enjoyed across the Davao region. January New Years Day: Davao’s residents celebrate the arrival of the New Year with a day off work and the chance to relax and enjoy get-togethers with friends and family. Araw ng mga Natibo: otherwise known as the Day of the Natives, this distinctly regional event sees members of the Tagacaolos, Blaans and Manobo tribes come together to celebrate their respective cultures through performances of ethnic singing and dancing, and the unusual spectacle of horse fighting. February People Power Day: Davao’s residents join the nation in enjoying a public holiday in remembrance of the 1986 People Power Revolt. March Araw ng Dabaw: Davao City celebrates the historic event when the city received an official charter. For a week, the locals enjoy a variety of festivities including horse fighting, ethnic rituals, a beauty contest and grand parade. April Easter: Locals are predominantly Catholic and so attend Holy Week services, culminating in Mass on Easter Sunday followed by celebrations with family and friends. Bataan Day: Davao locals enjoy this national holiday in remembrance of those who gave their lives in battles against the Japanese for control of the Bataan peninsular at the start of WWII. May Summer Island Festival: the third week of the month sees this popular event based at Samal Island in Davao. Locals and visitors assemble to enjoy cultural performances, banca racing and water sports competitions. June Santacruzan: locals don brightly coloured outfits and re-enact St Helene’s discovery of the cross of Christ. The event takes place in the residential areas of Belisario Heights and Lanang, which can be found a short distance north of Davao City. Tabanogan Festival: the feast of St Peter is celebrated in Davao with a number of festivities, among the most notable being the kite flying competition in which locals showcase their talents in this age-old activity. Independence Day: the 12th of June is a national holiday and sees residents of Davao enjoy a day off work to celebrate the country’s anniversary of the Philippine Declaration of Independence from Spain. July Araw ng Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental: this is the annual celebration of Davao’s division into the three independent provinces of del Sur, del Norte and Oriental. A variety of festivities are enjoyed including horse fighting displays, beauty pageants and tribal dance performances. Filipino-American Friendship Day: the formal Declaration of Independence from the United States is celebrated across the country on the 4th of July. Davao residents enjoy a day off work. August Araw ng mga Bayani: otherwise known as National Heroes Day, this is a public holiday enjoyed by all on the 26th of August. Kadayawan sa Dabaw: in the second week of August, this festival is enjoyed by locals with a variety of events including a beauty pageant, ethnic performances, a fruit and flower show and more. September Osmeà ±a Day: this national holiday commemorates the now deceased fourth President of the Philippines, Sergio Osmeà ±a. October Ramadan: a small percentage of Davao’s residents are Muslim and therefore celebrate the Islamic month of abstinence called Ramadan. Locals eat sparingly and avoid indulgences of any kind for the duration of the period. November Eid ul-Fitr: the Muslim residents of Davao mark the end of the Ramadan period with get-togethers and family feasts. Bonifacio Day: the birth date of Filipino revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio is celebrated by residents of the Davao region. December Lopez Jaena Day: the life of Graciano Là ³pez Jaena, one of the country’s most significant historic figures, is celebrated on the 18th of December. Christmas: beginning on the 15th of the month and lasting until the 31st, Paskuhan sa Dabaw is the country’s official Christmas season. The period is marked by a variety of festive events. New Years Eve (Bisperas ng Bagong Taon): is the official end of year celebration and sees a variety of festivities enjoyed across the Davao region. Davao City is particularly lively, holding various parties and putting on fireworks displays in a number of locations.

McMurphys One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest

McMurphys One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest This question is answered through the investigation of five specific aspects of McMurphys life in the asylum: McMurphys arrival into the asylum, his healing miracles, the change and truth McMurphy brings, his followers, and lastly, McMurphys death. These aspects in the novel will bring the revelations of McMurphys Christ-likeness and unlikeness, closer to the requirements of the research question. In each phase of McMurphys life, I assessed the extent to which Kesey portrayed McMurphy as a Christ-figure, keeping in mind the intentions of the author, as well as its effect on the American society in the 1960s. While using this novel as a primary resource, I also explored secondary resources like study guides, published interviews, journal articles, literary criticism and the Internet. The essay concludes that Kesey has portrayed McMurphy as a satirical Comic Christ. Kesey eases into the idea of McMurphy as Messiah. McMurphy becomes increasingly Christ-like as the plot progresses, indicated by the increasing intensity of the allusions from simple unobtrusive allusions in his arrival, to pronounced biblical allusions to Christ in his death. While McMurphy becomes more of a Christ-figure, he still retains the essence of his character throughout the novel his irreverent nature. Through the portrayal of McMurphy as a Comic Christ, Kesey echoes his anti-establishment feelings throughout the novel. This influences the readers perspective, particularly the straight-laced American society of the 1960s, on issues such as conformity and individuality. Kesey encourages readers to adopt a personal sense of morality, as the views of the majority may not necessarily be the best. INTRODUCTION One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest by Ken Kesey captures the anti-establishment sentiments of America in the 1960s through the arrival of anarchist R.P. McMurphy at a mental asylum in Oregon, the ‘Cuckoos Nest of the title. Using McMurphys conflict with Nurse Ratched and the ‘Combine, this classic deals with issues prevalent in its era. The supposition that Kesey shapes McMurphy after the archetype of Jesus Christ resounds in much of the literary criticism written on One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest. This essay aims to ascertain the extent to which Kesey models McMurphy after Christ. It also aims to examine the effect this has on plot development and readers reactions. It will do this by answering the question: Many critics believe that McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest by Ken Kesey is deliberately portrayed as a Christ-figure. To what extent does Kesey portray McMurphy as a Christ-figure? A Christ-figure is an individual who displays certain Christ-like traits, and is comparable to Christ of the Bible. The character may possess divine qualities such as the ability to perform miracles. He may also bring new truths with him, and fight for justice by defying authority. The Christ-figure is often a martyr, sacrificing himself for the liberation of others. This can be seen as his ultimate act of love. In One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest, McMurphy is a parallel of Jesus in some aspects. In order to define the extent to which Kesey wants us to look at McMurphy as a Christ-figure, this essay will delve into five distinct aspects of McMurphys life: McMurphys entrance into the institution, his miracle healings, the revelation of truth and changes McMurphy brings with him, McMurphys disciples and McMurphys death. The significance of McMurphys entrance into the asylum. The novel begins with McMurphys entrance into the psychiatric ward. Bromden, who narrates the story from his perspective, describes McMurphy as â€Å"no ordinary Admission† An ‘Admission would normally be given an ‘Admission shower, where Kesey hints that the â€Å"black boys† rape the ‘Admissions with a rectal thermometer. In 1960s America, where racial discrimination was still at its peak, African-Americans were viewed as the dregs of society. Particularly in the South, African-Americans were subject to harsh treatment. In the 1960s, the rape of the new ‘Admissions by the â€Å"black boys† emphasizes their vulnerability and weakness. Unlike the usual ‘Admission who submits with a â€Å"weak little yes†, McMurphy brassily refuses the ‘Admission shower. His strength and assurance marks him as the odd one out. McMurphy is in full control of the situation and is not easily pushed around. This is apparent when he tells the â€Å"black boy†, â€Å"Get back away from me with that thermometer, Sam†. Not only does he command Sam confidently and boldly, he also calls him by his name. In contrast, one â€Å"black boy† describes Bromden, who is a foil to McMurphy, as â€Å"big enough to eat apples off my head an he mine me like a baby†. Bromdens timid and submissive nature highlights McMurphys assertive personality, making McMurphy seem larger than life despite being physically smaller than Bromden in reality. McMurphys sanity amidst a ward of mentally ill patients makes him superior. In spite of this, McMurphy enters the ward humbly, shaking everyones hand. This humble act implies that McMurphy regards everyone as an equal, despite being a cut above the rest. At this point in the novel, it would never occur to readers that McMurphy is an archetype of Christ. Kesey makes no hint of McMurphy as a Christ-figure. McMurphys entrance into the psychiatric ward is dissimilar to Christs entrance into the world, apart from having a powerful presence, which is hardly a character trait exclusive to Christ. McMurphy is vastly different from Christ. He is a sex addict convicted of having sexual relations with a â€Å"child of fifteen†, as well as a â€Å"gambling fool†with a deck of cards showing â€Å"fifty-two (sex) positions†. The courts ruled that he was a psychopath who â€Å"fights and fucks too much†. McMurphy owns boxer shorts with â€Å"big white whales†resembling Melvilles Moby-Dick, which is possibly perceived as a phallic pun, though, it can also symbolise the omnipresent and all-powerful nature of God , reinstating McMurphys character as a Christ-figure that is unabashedly sexual. However, McMurphys profanities make him an unusual Christ-figure, as he engages in the vices that Christianity teaches against. In The Comic Christ and the Modern Reader, Richard B. Hauck presents the notion that ‘The Christ-figure Metaphor Hunt is played between the reader and the author, whereby readers search for clues that prove a character is an imitation of Christ. In an effort to hide the clues, the author may purposefully assign conflicting character traits, creating a character with moral ambiguity. Perhaps it is this thrilling game, together with the humour American readers find in irony, which allows this classic to withstand the test of time. The effect of McMurphys healing miracles. A common trait of Christ-figures in literature is the ability to perform miracles. McMurphy accomplishes two healing miracles that bear slight resemblance to the miracles Christ performed during his lifetime. Ellis, who was once an ‘Acute, becomes a ‘Chronic after being sent to the ‘Shock Shop to undergo electroconvulsive therapy. â€Å"Now hes nailed against the wall in the same condition they lifted him off the table for the last time, in the same shape, arms out, palms cupped, with the same horror on his face.†Ellis position corresponds to the position of a crucified person. Crucifixion, practiced by ancient Romans, is a means of punishment for criminals. Not only does it strip a person of his dignity and life, it also serves as a warning to society on the ramifications of crime. Nurse Ratched uses Ellis as an instrument to show others what they can become if they rebel. Unlike a crucified person who dies shortly after, Ellis persistent suffering occurs daily. After McMurphy tells Ellis to arise because a grown man should not be â€Å"sloshin in his own water†, Ellis responds by momentarily stepping away from his crucified position Like Christ, McMurphy alleviates others suffering. His ability to evoke a response from Ellis demonstrates his power to release a person from the grips of evil that is embodied in Nurse Ratched. However, McMurphy is no infallible god. He does not manage to successfully heal Ellis. It is noted that Ellis miracle is rather short-lived, as he returns to the original crucified position. If Kesey were to attribute Christ-like sovereignty to McMurphy at this point, it may have upset readers in 1960s America. From a strict Christian perspective, it is considered blasphemous that a mere human with his shortcomings should be compared to Christ. Kesey gradually eases into the idea of McMurphy as a saviour, instead of blatantly shocking readers by turning a contemptuous man into a saviour overnight. In the subsequent miracle, McMurphy prompts muted Bromden to speak, by offering him a piece of gum. Bromden opens his mouth to thank him This corresponds with Christs miracle when he caused a mute to speak by casting out a demon within him. In this case, it is not the demon that prevents Bromden from speaking. Rather, it is the fear of the ‘Combine that suppresses his words, which McMurphy successfully manages to dissipate. While Ellis miracle does not last, Bromdens transformation is permanent. He begins to communicate increasingly with the ‘Acutes under McMurphys influence. Relating back to Keseys own experiences, from 1960 to 1961, he volunteered for government drug experiments at Menlo Park Hospital. After which, he became a psychiatric aide in the same ward. Having spent his time as both patient and staff, Keseys intimate knowledge of the patients circumstances aroused a deep sense of empathy for them. In his letter to Babbs titled â€Å"PEOPLE ON THE WARD†, Kesey identifies the patients by their â€Å"empty eyes†. This presents a poignant image; instead of seeing their soul through the windows of their eyes, all Kesey sees are â€Å"dilapidated organs, grinding through their organ duties†, as if living in the mental institution robs patients of their essence, just like how Ellis and Bromden deteriorate from ‘Acutes to ‘Chronics. This hints Keseys dislike for mental institutions, and his hopes for a saviour for redemption. Another interpretation is that these miracles are metaphors for the political situation in America in the sixties. Patients are referred to as â€Å"mechanical puppets†controlled by Nurse Ratched. The mental illnesses that she inflicts upon patients either rob them of the ability to express or confine self-expression, which Kesey reveals through the suffering Ellis and muted Bromden respectively. Ellis and Bromden represent society, and the ‘Combine, the government. Perhaps Kesey feels that the government suppresses ones individuality, and McMurphy is a projection of his desire to free society from the expectation to conform. The impact of the revelation of truth and changes that McMurphy brings with him. Not only do McMurphys miracles encourage self-expression, McMurphy leads by example, audaciously expressing his views that differ from society. Though McMurphy and Christ are similar in this respect, the revelations and change each brings is different. Before Christs arrival, the Pharisees had established numerous rules for what was considered ‘rest on the Sabbath. Jesus defied the rules by healing a man on the Sabbath, telling the Pharisees, â€Å"What man is there among you who has a sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will he not take hold of it and lift it out? How much more valuable then is a man than a sheep!†Jesus redefined ‘rest on the Sabbath and taught them that doing good works on the Sabbath is far more essential than adhering to rituals. This is one of the many instances where Jesus challenged the Pharisees interpretations of rules. McMurphy, likewise, questions the rules by exposing the intentions of Nurse Ratched. Contrary to Hardings angelic depiction of Nurse Ratched as a â€Å"sweet, smiling, tender angel of mercy†, the sibilance in â€Å"sweet†, â€Å"smiling† and â€Å"mercy† brings out a hissing sound, like that of the serpent in Genesis, that led to Adam and Eves downfall. From this, readers can gather that she may not be who she appears to be. Like the serpent, she might possess evil motives. Furthermore, McMurphy likens therapeutic sessions to a â€Å"peckin party†, where one chicken is ripped to â€Å"shreds, blood and bones and feathers†. He reveals that Nurse Ratched does not have the patients welfare in mind. She initiates the fights by taking the first peck â€Å"where it hurts the most†, in an attempt to weaken them into compliance. Explosive words in the description of the therapeutic sessions are uttered with force, emphasizing her bestiality. This novel is possibly a medium to voice Keseys political dissatisfaction. In 1950s America, Eisenhower, a five-star military general and right-wing conservative, served his term as President. It was an era of conformity under his leadership. Kesey, however, did not conform to societal standards, but rebelled against conservative societal norms of his time. In a society where the typical American man had strict religious views, Keseys behaviour was controversial. Through the exposure of Nurse Ratcheds wicked intentions, Kesey encourages Americans to question policies implemented by the government. Evidently, Kesey was not the only one who thought that some rules would stifle ones individuality. Anti-establishment feelings were becoming rampant, with Hollywood movies like ‘Rebels Without A Cause. Another revelation that McMurphy brings is that the patients are not the rabbits they believe to be. According to Harding, â€Å"The ritual of our existence is based on the strong getting stronger by devouring the weak. We must learn to accept it as a law of the natural world†¦ (The rabbit) knows his place. He most certainly doesnt challenge the wolf to combat.†This is similar to the messages that Christ preached about the meek inheriting the earthand turning the other cheek when one is wronged. Similarly, the inmates behaviour is Christ-like. They believe they are not going to win by fighting, and do not retaliate against the ‘Combine. However, McMurphy proves that the rabbits can overcome the wolf. He alters institutionalised policies by Nurse Ratched, regarding the viewing of World Series, the use of the tub room for the ‘Acutes, as well as cigarette rationing. The message Kesey brings is different from Christ. Kesey preaches that one must assert himself in order to save his life, contrary to biblical teachings that one must lose himself in order to save his life. During the sixties, the rabbit metaphor allowed society to view themselves as Kesey does. Having progressed from the fifties, America was going through a series of rapid changes. This decade saw the rise of the counterculture the civil rights movement, gay liberation, sexual revolution and Beat Movement. Kesey was part of the Beat Generation. In the context of the institution, the ones who submit to Nurse Ratched are the mentally insane â€Å"rabbits†. Conversely, readers perceive McMurphy, who challenges Nurse Ratcheds authority, as sane. Through this setting and Hardings metaphor, readers view the conformists of society through Keseys eyes. Kesey makes readers ponder, â€Å"Is it insane to challenge rules and authority? Could it be that the mentally insane are, in fact, the ones who subject themselves without question to authorities?† The likeness of Christs disciples and McMurphys followers. Besides revealing truths that instil confidence in the patients, McMurphy also empowers them when he â€Å"(leads) the twelve of (them) toward the ocean†, to become â€Å"fishers of men†- just as Jesus did. This is a direct allusion to Jesus, who takes his twelve disciples fishing. McMurphys disciples are empowered with laughter, and manage to find humour amidst calamity. Their laughter â€Å"rang out on the water in ever-widening circles, farther and farther in wave after wave after wave.†This is like McMurphys laugh which â€Å"spreads in rings bigger and bigger till its lapping against the walls all over the ward†. The imagery of vast space that their laughter reaches emphasizes its genuineness. It is unrestricted and liberating. This is contrasted with the snickers the patients make with their fistsearlier on. Their laughter seems controlled, as if it forced within the confines of their hands, implying its falsity. Laughter is a source of sanity and strength to McMurphy, who believes that â€Å"you have to laugh at the things that hurt you just to keep the world from running you plumb crazy†and that one â€Å"cant really be strong until (he) sees a funny side to things†. Laughter is a means of salvation and freedom from oppressio n. Unlike Christs ‘fishers of men who spread the message of salvation, McMurphys ‘fishers of men are called to spread the redemptive power of laughter to mankind. By drawing a parallel to Christs followers, Kesey casts McMurphys followers in a favourable light. McMurphys disciples, who indulge in laughter, resemble The Merry Pranksters a group in the Beat Generation who indulged in pleasures atypical of society. Kesey promotes the message that what is deemed socially unacceptable may not necessarily be wrong. Right and wrong is not determined by the views of majority; but rather, by the consequences of the act. McMurphy empowers his followers with boldness. To the gas station servicemen who give them condescending looks, McMurphy lies that they came from the â€Å"criminal-insane ward†, with Billy Bibbit who was an â€Å"insane knife artist that killed three men† and so on. This causes everybody to call orders to the service-station men, â€Å"just like (they) owned the show† They stare at people at a stop light, intimidating them. It is noteworthy how antithetical to Christ, McMurphy uses immoral means, like fabrications, to empower his disciples. Perhaps it is for Kesey to remind readers that McMurphy is still a flawed human. In his attempt to humanise a saviour, Kesey relates that one does not have to be Christ or immortal to possess the same self-sacrificial love that knows no bounds. Although McMurphy maintains his profane disposition, he becomes increasingly Christ-like; not only in character, but also in the experiences they share. McMurphys dubious moral standards are juxtaposed with his Christ-likeness, to reveal what Kesey feels are the more important aspects of being a saviour. Kesey and The Merry Pranksters rebelled against authority by experimenting with hallucinogens and their sexuality. Like non-conformist McMurphy, they took to worldly pleasures. Due to the religious surge in post-WW2, readers of the sixties would have frowned upon the seemingly unprincipled lives of The Merry Pranksters and McMurphy. By presenting McMurphy as a secular Christ-figure, Kesey upholds that the positive contribution one brings to society overrides the importance of strictly adhering to biblical rules. McMurphy is proof that a morally flawed character can bring monumental benefits to his community. The meaning in McMurphys death. The events leading to McMurphys death accentuate his Christ-likeness. Because McMurphy fights the aides to protect George, Nurse Ratched sends him to be electroshocked. Electroshock treatment is likened to a crucifixion, with a cross-shaped table Before McMurphys crucifixion, he says, â€Å"Anointest my head with conductant. Do I get a crown of thorns?†This is comparable to Christs crown of thorns. Furthermore, a man announces: â€Å"I wash my hands off this whole deal† an echo of Pontius Pilates words before he executed Christ. This foreshadows McMurphys eventual death. Before the crucifixion of Christ, Jesus had his ‘Last Supper with his disciples. The traitor Judas Iscariot was amongst them. McMurphys ‘Last Supper at the asylum is celebrated with alcohol and his hiring of two whores, one of whom Bibbit loses his virginity to in the ‘Seclusion Room Following Nurse Ratcheds discovery and threats of telling his mother, Bibbit identifies McMurphy as the mastermind behind this. He then commits suicide by â€Å"(cutting) his throat†, unable to handle the guilt. A parallel can be drawn to Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus and then hung himself out of remorse McMurphy, upset about Nurse Ratcheds strong influence over Bibbit, smashes through the glass and rips her uniform down the front, exposing her breasts In doing so, McMurphy brings his final revelation of the truth that Nurse Ratched is merely human, changing the patients mechanical perception of her forever. From then on, she â€Å"couldnt rule with her old power†, as she could â€Å"no longer conceal the fact that she was a woman† McMurphy pays for this with his mind the very thing that defines his life. Nurse Ratched sends him for a lobotomy that leaves him a â€Å"Vegetable. Bromden refers to him as â€Å"it†, knowing McMurphy is already dead inside, and â€Å"mashed the pillow into the face† to find that â€Å"the expression hadnt changed from the blank, dead-end look the least bit†. The term â€Å"mash† connotes violence in the merciful act of killing McMurphy. The paradox of mercy killing is redolent of the Roman centurion who drove a spear through Christs side, relieving his suffering by quickening his death. McMurphy dies as a crucified person would: by suffocation. He could have undertaken his plan to escape and live, but chose to die for the inmates sake. Likewise, Christ died on the cross to save mankind. The 1960s society would have a thorough comprehension of the torture endured by Christ, a fundamental concept of Christianity. A Christ-like death for McMurphy effectively evokes sympathy in readers. Hence, it is likely that the readers respect for McMurphy, who sacrifices his very being, far outweigh their feelings of disapproval regarding McMurphys profane antics. Just as Christ resurrected from death, McMurphy resurrects in his disciples. They become more assured, and are â€Å"no more rabbits† as Harding says. As a result of his death, â€Å"everything was changing†: almost everyone either signed out or transferred out and the new nurse â€Å"gave the guys a chance to change a lot of the ward policy† Of all his disciples, McMurphy is kept most alive in Chief Bromden. McMurphy transfers his powers to Bromden, who becomes stronger as McMurphy becomes weaker. Previously, the plot is seen through Bromdens unclear fogginess, which gradually disappears towards the end as he gains clarity of mind. The schizophrenic is even able to distinguish between delusions and reality, when he says â€Å"There was little brown birds occasionally on the fence; when a puff of leaves would hit the fence the birds would fly off with the wind. It looked at first like the leaves were hitting the fence and turning into birds and flying away.†At the end, he courageously confronts the unhappy past that caused his insanity, by looking â€Å"around the gorge†, â€Å"just to bring some of it clear in (his) mind again†, rather than hide behind fog and muteness like he had done before. Narrating the story from Bromdens perspective allows readers to observe his transformation. In Robert Faggens interview with Kesey during one of his visits to Keseys Oregon farm in 1992 and 1993, Kesey recounted an event he witnessed: In order to stop the dam project in Portland, an Indian ran into an oncoming truck that carried the materials the government would use to build the dam. The Indian, who did everything he could to protect his land, prompted Kesey to realise â€Å"the notion of what you have to pay for a lifestyle† Keseys message resounds throughout the novel, even more so after McMurphys death. Freedom comes at a cost, but its benefit is far-reaching. CONCLUSION The novel is replete with allusions of McMurphy to Christ. Despite McMurphys distinctive presence being evident in the beginning, there is no hint of his Christ-likeness at that point. On hindsight, Christ came blamelessly and without sin as a baby, to a world full of sinners. In this respect, he was superior to society; yet he entered this world humbly in a manger. While it is no rarity for humans to possess either an air of superiority or humility, it is uncommon for one to be both superior and humble. It is fair to say that the characteristics of McMurphy are somewhat reminiscent of Christ. While the first miracle that McMurphy performs on Ellis lasts only for a moment, the subsequent miracle sparks a transformation in Bromden. Further on, McMurphy begins to bear a greater resemblance to not only Christs character, but also to specific experiences he brings truth and change to his community, and takes his followers on a fishing trip. McMurphys death is another allusion. After Mc Murphy finishes his ‘Last Supper, one disciple betrays him. This leads to his crucifixion, mental death through lobotomy and finally his physical demise; with his resurrection portrayed through Chief Bromden. The series of inconspicuous allusions intensify as the plot develops. However, while McMurphy learns to be more Christ-like, he is different from Christ. Kesey shapes McMurphy as a crude and profane individual, making him a satirical Comic Christ. Kesey uses McMurphys journey to Christ-likeness to address significant issues such as conformity and individuality, the triumph of good over evil, freedom from oppression. These are recurring themes in most of Keseys works, namely Zoo and Sometimes A Great Notion. McMurphy, as a Christ-figure, brings this novel to a whole new level of sacrosanctity, which is apt, considering it holds these themes that are important to Kesey. Uneven forces will always exist in this world, good and evil, the strong and the weak, the dominant and the meek. As such, these issues remain relevant in modern times. The interpretation of this novel has been largely dependent on my perception of who Christ is. Kesey, who held interest in psychic phenomena, use of the I-Ching, Eastern religions and the Bible, may not have had the same idea of Christ as others when writing the novel; but as with all literary works, interpretation is open to its readers. Given the vast number of religions and cultures, each individual has differing perspectives on Christs character. Whether he adheres to Christianity, Judaism, Atheism or any other religion, new syntheses can be created regarding these key themes. After all, as Kesey teaches us, each man is entitled to a mind of his own.

Mitsubishi Essay -- essays research papers

Background Recruitment Workplace Discrimination Lawsuit Media Response Defense Leave End Interpretation Conclusion Racial Discrimination?Japanese Interview Mitsubishi Japan Employment Discrimination Case Hi, I had the misfortune of working for Mitsubishi Electric in Japan, a few years ago. This is my story of a rare employment-related racial discrimination lawsuit I filed against them in their home country. This story is somewhat different. Media's version of it (below) will let you know some facts regarding this case and for those with patience and open minds to explore the truth, a different story will emerge after reading my account. First, let me introduce you briefly to my relevant background. I am a graduate of IIT Bombay (an IITian) and we are used commonly in the IT industry for developed countries like the USA and Japan. I am a permanent resident ("Green Card" holder) of the USA and it took me five years to get it. Normally, it used to take about 2 years. Moreover, as you can see from my GMAT scores that I have high verbal aptitude (left scores). (GRE scores were similar.) I was preparing for a career in financial sector. MBA + Actuarial exams with high scores + CFA and CFP exams. Was expecting to pursue that career after getting my Green Card. I didn't want to work for in the IT industry and most definitely didn't want to work for notorious Mitsubishi but I landed up in their Computer Works in Japan. Mitsubishi went on an aggressive recruitment process to hire me, apparently at the orders of its highest executives. The purpose - you will find out soon. By the way, as most of us very well know, Japanese executives in places like Mitsubishi have racial-superiority complex towards the rest of us, especially the non-Caucasians, and even though they try hard, most of them are unable to master a foreign language like English. Now you are all set to begin your journey. Note: Am adding more material to the other pages. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A Case of Racial Discrimination? An Indian Worker Sues His Japanese Employer by Robert Guest From the credit - Robert Guest is a British free-lance writer based in Hiroshima who contributes business and other articles to The Far Eastern Economic Review and The Independent. The Journal - Issues in Bilateral Relations, November 1992 p... ... thinks its effects will last much longer. Victory for [name removed], for example, would mean that Japanese companies would have to start taking concrete steps to educate their staff about racism and completely overhaul their training programs for foreign workers, not to mention instituting new sensitivity training courses for workers going abroad. Mitsubishi Electric officials, meanwhile, are maintaining their innocence in this case, claiming that the whole affair was "an unfortunate misunderstanding." "It was our intention to provide Mr. [name removed] with opportunities for training and a chance to make use of his abilities in the long term," said a spokesperson for the firm, "but he failed to understand this, and so, unfortunately, has brought this case against us." The company would prefer to wait until the facts have been established before making any further comments, he added, but in the meanwhile, they are doing their best to make [name removed] understand their point of view. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Contact: mitsubishi-sucks[at]ThisDomainName[dot]com Related link: Mitsubishi!

A Modern Macbeth :: essays research papers

A Modern Macbeth   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When looking back on the recent decades or even last week, it is not difficult to find a Macbeth-like figure in mainstream American culture. In this it is meant that these individuals experience a downfall in an attempt to gain power. One such figure was former President Richard Nixon.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Nixon was long associated with American politics before his fall from grace. He was along time senator before finally being elected president in 1968. During his first term, his United States went through the Vietnam War and a period of economic inflation. In 1972 he was easily re-elected over Democrat nominee George McGovern. Almost unnoticed during his campaign was the arrest of five men connected with Nixon’s re-election committee. They had broken into the Democrats national head quarters in the Watergate apartment complex, in Washington D.C. They attempted to steal documents and place wire taps on the telephones. By March of 1973, through a federal inquiry, it had been brought to light that the burglars had connections with high government officials and Nixon’s closest aids. Despite Nixon and his lawyers best efforts, it was shown that the president had participated in the Watergate cover-up. On August 8, 1974 Nixon announced, without admitting g uilt, that he would resign. He left the Oval Office the next day: an obvious fall from grace.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  So how does this former leader of the free world compare to Macbeth? Before they achieved their positions of power to govern or rule all, both Nixon and Macbeth spent many years being heavily respected amongst their peers. Nixon spent many years as a respected congressman and Macbeth as a soldier and Thane of Glamis. They used the way people viewed them to their advantage to gain a position of power. Nixon used his experience to get him elected president. Macbeth was made Thane of Cawdor and eventually king. Once they both ascended to their respected roles they did whatever it took to protect themselves from any possible threats. Nixon cheated by trying to steal opponents campaign secrets thus giving him an unfair advantage.

Dressing Appropriately :: essays research papers

Dressing Appropriately In high school, there were the preps, the skaters, and the burnouts, just to name a few. These groups were not only distinguished by the way they acted, but they were also differentiated by the way they dressed. By looking at a particular student in high school, one could probably infer the clique he/she belonged to. So if a person had on big, baggy pants with a oversized T-shirt that had a Etnies logo on it, one could conclude that person to be a skater and if a person had on khakis and a gap sweater, one could deduce that person to be a prep. What is a possible reason that high school students dress as they do? They might use clothing style as a sense of identity(clique) or maybe to stand out among others. I too, in high school, wanted to be included in a group and stand out. During my freshman and sophomore years, I became a skater. Also during this time in my life, my father introduced me to the game of golf. He bought me membership at an exclusive country club and the first day I went I was rejected obviously because of the way I dressed. Private golf courses require a strict rules of dress which is mandatory: khakis and a collared-shirt. Ironically and unknowingly I had gone to the course with an almost exact opposite of the requirements: 38" wide jean pants and an XXL t-shirt! Embarrassed by the situation, I began to realize that there are certain modes of dress appropriate for different occasions. Now, as a college student, I try to dress in a more stylish, refined manner because I want to stand out as a sophisticated student of a distinguished university. Reflecting on my past, I feel it is important to dress to meet the occasion. To clarify, I don’t want to make the mistake off going to a golf course with skateboarding clothes again . Dressing Appropriately :: essays research papers Dressing Appropriately In high school, there were the preps, the skaters, and the burnouts, just to name a few. These groups were not only distinguished by the way they acted, but they were also differentiated by the way they dressed. By looking at a particular student in high school, one could probably infer the clique he/she belonged to. So if a person had on big, baggy pants with a oversized T-shirt that had a Etnies logo on it, one could conclude that person to be a skater and if a person had on khakis and a gap sweater, one could deduce that person to be a prep. What is a possible reason that high school students dress as they do? They might use clothing style as a sense of identity(clique) or maybe to stand out among others. I too, in high school, wanted to be included in a group and stand out. During my freshman and sophomore years, I became a skater. Also during this time in my life, my father introduced me to the game of golf. He bought me membership at an exclusive country club and the first day I went I was rejected obviously because of the way I dressed. Private golf courses require a strict rules of dress which is mandatory: khakis and a collared-shirt. Ironically and unknowingly I had gone to the course with an almost exact opposite of the requirements: 38" wide jean pants and an XXL t-shirt! Embarrassed by the situation, I began to realize that there are certain modes of dress appropriate for different occasions. Now, as a college student, I try to dress in a more stylish, refined manner because I want to stand out as a sophisticated student of a distinguished university. Reflecting on my past, I feel it is important to dress to meet the occasion. To clarify, I don’t want to make the mistake off going to a golf course with skateboarding clothes again .

Can we trust our emotions in the pursuit of knowledge Essay

I feel that knowledge is learning or feeling something that you didn’t know before. The pursuit of knowledge comes through sheer experience. Knowledge surpasses formal schooling. Schooling is educational but neither textbook nor teacher can allow one to experience knowledge that is experienced when on a journey, a journey to explore new things. With emotion on will delve deep and learn more than ever opening up avenues never seen before. That is the pursuit of knowledge. With emotions aiding the pursuit of knowledge one will learn a broader spectrum of things. Using emotions in history and the arts is a trustworthy action. In history one will see that emotions are entwined in every story because that is what history is, a compilation of stories from different sources and point of views. Who’s to say what the truth in history is? Who is the judge on whether a historical account is true or not? No one is the judge. This is what makes the pursuit of knowledge in history a purely emotional experience. It is hard to really know what is true because in different cultures and regions of the world history is told from different angles. History that one learns in school is not told from different angles. It is told from an angle that portrays a certain attitude from the compiler of historical facts. Depending on what side you are on in history reflects the publicity of certain events. In schools certain topics are talked about more often, such as victories. Although the events in history may be emotional the pursuit of this knowledge is not emotional. It is only information; therefore, emotions should not be trusted when dealing with this type. Familial history is different for every person because everyone has backgrounds that are of many origins. When a person learns about their history it is many times oral history that has been told for generations. Oral history is bound to change dramatically because as the story is told, different variations and exaggerations are added. When one person tells a story one portion of the story may be enhanced and talked about more, but that parts that aren’t told as much may be the truth and most important parts of the story. Familial history is emotional. This history encompasses struggles and successes. Each thing that happens in a family’s history holds an emotional impact on the person or people that witnessed these things. Many times if the past is hard to talk about, due to heavy emotional impact, the story is changed or not reported. Tying emotions to pursuit of knowledge in history is unpreventable because history is an emotional subject. When a person sees art many emotions arise that causes wonderment. The journey to understanding what art is conveying is what brings forth emotion that lead one to understanding. African drumming and dancing is something that I grew up doing and listening to. In the beginning it was something that I did and never wondered about. After my retirement from drumming and dancing I saw a performance and it set me on a roller coaster of thoughts. Through the gyrations and deep thuds moving in synchronization I experienced something I never felt while playing all of those years. Through the drumming I felt the rhythm of my own heart and through the movements life was breathed into the auditorium. The swift and acrobatic movement represented structure and valor. The drums often turned into a rough chant that spoke belligerent tones and softened, as the movements became more fluid. The drums spoke and the movements of the dancer’s bodies told a story. Through emotions, art comes alive and new knowledge was gained from that single experiences. Because there is not a wrong answer in art it is often easier to trust emotions. Art is emotional. Emotional is what humans are; this makes us all artist. Because trusting emotions in art is simple one can challenge their mind and try to understand what is behind the art form. Through paintings and mixed media different thoughts could be conveyed according to what emotions it causes a person to have. The artist could have intended for it to convey one emotion when according to past experiences of the viewer it conveys a different tone. In the language arts†¦ Although one can trust emotions in the pursuit of knowledge one mustn’t trust emotion to validate knowledge. People have their own truths. Truth changes, but knowledge doesn’t. Truth changes because of a different perception that each person has. Truth is what we all believe to be valid. Knowledge is different in every person. The pursuit of knowledge is a journey. When the destination is met one can’t trust emotions to thread through the truths and falsifications, but trusting your emotions on the journey is definitely possible and makes the expedition unique to the traveler.