I'll be honest, I know little to nothing in regards to Hans Christian Andersen. I have never actually read any of his works. The limited knowledge I do have is from watching Disney's adaptation of The Little Mermaid. Rather sad, isn't it? Well, regardless of where I receive my knowledge, it has definitely sparked an interest in reading this unit, so I say we should begin.
I've actually read the Princess and the Pea before, and it has always been an interesting story, maybe, but a really boring one as well. I have never liked that story for whatever reason. In fact, I've also read The Emperor's New Suit before, and that is a story that I really do enjoy. I think it is so funny when he ends up naked. A great lesson learned, as it were. The Brave Tin Soldier is also familiar, but barely. I do not know much about this story, nor do I particularly care for it as I read it. The other two stories in this half are also foreign to me, but they are kind of enjoyable to read.
Now, onto the Little Mermaid. It is quite different from the Disney film I grew up watching. How so? Well, first and foremost, there is no Jamaican singing crab, which is incredibly unfortunate. However, a lot more of the story stayed in tact, which was rather surprising. The greatest change I can think of is the ending. It ends quite a bit more cheerfully in the Disney version. Obviously, I can understand why they did that to the story. I mean, what will appeal more to kids - true love, or suicide?
All in all, a very good unit. It was a nice last week of reading and a good way to go out. We'll see what I do for my story retelling, but for the time being, it is nice to look over the unit as a whole and enjoy what I have read. I might have to go back and read through some of the stories again, just because I have the time and opportunity to.
Showing posts with label Reading Diary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reading Diary. Show all posts
Wednesday, 12 November 2014
Monday, 10 November 2014
Week 13 Reading Diary: Dante's Inferno
Oh, yeah! The Divine Comedy is one of the best stories ever conceived! I love Dante's work. The Inferno is one of the best writings that I've ever read. I absolutely love the idea of learning what Hell is when it is such a mysterious and vaguely-explained concept in the Bible and in mythology. Dante's writing just makes it that much better. His explanation for all of these unexplainable things that the majority of people (especially there in Roman Catholic Italy) believed is just sheer creativity and fantastic writing.
My personal favorite bit is the section revolved around Limbo. Now, this is a theory that I do not share, theologically, but it is an intriguing concept and definitely warrants reading and maybe some more time and attention than some other sections. I particularly love how it explains what happened to the characters in the Bible before Christ was around to bring salvation. As a kid growing up, that was always one of my biggest questions regarding Christianity. In the story, he goes into Limbo and frees all people who deserved to go to Heaven that lived before Jesus.
Getting into the second half brings out some of the best parts. I absolutely love the mix of Greek and Roman myth and Christian theology. I think the collaboration is really great and works out so well in Dante's work. Now, don't get me wrong, I prefer to keep them separated (like The Offspring would want), but it's a new twist, you know? Something fresh (despite its age).
My absolute favorite part of the story is the description of Satan. Weird, right? I just think it is so cool to try and describe something that has been a descriptive mystery for thousands of years. Plus, I oddly love how Satan is trapped in ice caused by the deepness of his circle and the wind produced by his wings. I also really love how his existence is punishment for Judas, Cassius and Brutus - those who have betrayed those they were meant to protect and love. Great stuff.
My personal favorite bit is the section revolved around Limbo. Now, this is a theory that I do not share, theologically, but it is an intriguing concept and definitely warrants reading and maybe some more time and attention than some other sections. I particularly love how it explains what happened to the characters in the Bible before Christ was around to bring salvation. As a kid growing up, that was always one of my biggest questions regarding Christianity. In the story, he goes into Limbo and frees all people who deserved to go to Heaven that lived before Jesus.
Getting into the second half brings out some of the best parts. I absolutely love the mix of Greek and Roman myth and Christian theology. I think the collaboration is really great and works out so well in Dante's work. Now, don't get me wrong, I prefer to keep them separated (like The Offspring would want), but it's a new twist, you know? Something fresh (despite its age).
My absolute favorite part of the story is the description of Satan. Weird, right? I just think it is so cool to try and describe something that has been a descriptive mystery for thousands of years. Plus, I oddly love how Satan is trapped in ice caused by the deepness of his circle and the wind produced by his wings. I also really love how his existence is punishment for Judas, Cassius and Brutus - those who have betrayed those they were meant to protect and love. Great stuff.
Tuesday, 4 November 2014
Week 12 Reading Diary: English Fairy Tales
Welp, I chose this unit because the description had a bunch of stories that I recognized. I thought, "Okay, this will be an easy unit. I can kinda take a load off for a few days and focus on some of my other classes!" Nope. In truth, I only knew one story completely as it was told here. You know what story that was? The Three Little Pigs. I felt like such a kid. I mean, don't get me wrong - that has always been a great story - but what good does that do me now?
Now, as far as these stories go, they are all really good. Mouse and Mouser was a particularly enjoyable tale, but I really can't calculate any special reason why. I just liked it. Then again, I can probably say that for most of these stories. The Master and His Pupil was also an enjoyable story, though I feel as though I've read something similar before. I don't really know why.
For the second half, I was excited to read Mr. Fox, because I assumed it was Roald Dahl's The Fantastic Mr. Fox. These stories are not the same. If Dahl received inspiration for his story from here, that would make sense, but it is definitely its own fairy tale. It was a great read and everything, but I still felt a little disappointed when it wasn't quite the same story.
The rest of these stories are honestly hit-and-miss with me. I enjoyed The Laidly Worm of Spendleston Heugh and Johnny-Cake. However, there were a few that I just did not like. Like the very last story - Fairy Ointment? If that story isn't enough to turn you away, the actual story will take care of it for you. Anyway, all in all, it was a good unit, but not one of the best. However, this is just one man's opinion, and anyone else who might read this should actually take it into consideration.
Now, as far as these stories go, they are all really good. Mouse and Mouser was a particularly enjoyable tale, but I really can't calculate any special reason why. I just liked it. Then again, I can probably say that for most of these stories. The Master and His Pupil was also an enjoyable story, though I feel as though I've read something similar before. I don't really know why.
For the second half, I was excited to read Mr. Fox, because I assumed it was Roald Dahl's The Fantastic Mr. Fox. These stories are not the same. If Dahl received inspiration for his story from here, that would make sense, but it is definitely its own fairy tale. It was a great read and everything, but I still felt a little disappointed when it wasn't quite the same story.
The rest of these stories are honestly hit-and-miss with me. I enjoyed The Laidly Worm of Spendleston Heugh and Johnny-Cake. However, there were a few that I just did not like. Like the very last story - Fairy Ointment? If that story isn't enough to turn you away, the actual story will take care of it for you. Anyway, all in all, it was a good unit, but not one of the best. However, this is just one man's opinion, and anyone else who might read this should actually take it into consideration.
Friday, 24 October 2014
Week 11 Reading Diary: Robin Hood
...
...This is not the Robin Hood I've heard of. He just killed 15 people because they told him he couldn't shoot a bow well. However, it tends to get a little better as time goes on. His meeting with Little John is about what I expected and is in fact very similar to their meeting in a certain Mel Brooks movie I adore. So, that kind of makes up for things concerning that introduction. Robin Hood is always quite clever and that makes the songs more enjoyable. Plus, it should be noted that the songs being kept in the original Olde English is very fun to try and read. I also went ahead and listened to a few of the recordings, just to say I did, and it was most definitely worth it. Also, there are quite a few "derry"s and "down"s throughout the songs, which makes it quite interesting, incredibly strange, and honestly, a little fun. If you ask me, though, I love these stories so far, but I prefer the easy-going, rob from the rich and give to the poor, kind of Robin Hood. He's a cool dude. This guy, well, he's got his moments, but he's different.
What's really surprising is how there became such an iconic hero as the Hollywood Robin Hood and what I'm assuming was in later English myth than from is in these ballads. What did it take for them to change his character so? I mean, while reading, I can get a glimpse of the legend that has been made into countless movies and storybooks and fantasies, but this Robin Hood is kind of a jerk. Don't get me wrong, I am thoroughly enjoying these ballads and tales. I think what I like about them so much is how they are singable. Who doesn't love a good song? Seriously, if Ariana Grande recorded a song with these Robin Hood lyrics, I might actually listen to Ariana Grande. I might still refrain if Nicki Minaj did them, though...
...This is not the Robin Hood I've heard of. He just killed 15 people because they told him he couldn't shoot a bow well. However, it tends to get a little better as time goes on. His meeting with Little John is about what I expected and is in fact very similar to their meeting in a certain Mel Brooks movie I adore. So, that kind of makes up for things concerning that introduction. Robin Hood is always quite clever and that makes the songs more enjoyable. Plus, it should be noted that the songs being kept in the original Olde English is very fun to try and read. I also went ahead and listened to a few of the recordings, just to say I did, and it was most definitely worth it. Also, there are quite a few "derry"s and "down"s throughout the songs, which makes it quite interesting, incredibly strange, and honestly, a little fun. If you ask me, though, I love these stories so far, but I prefer the easy-going, rob from the rich and give to the poor, kind of Robin Hood. He's a cool dude. This guy, well, he's got his moments, but he's different.
What's really surprising is how there became such an iconic hero as the Hollywood Robin Hood and what I'm assuming was in later English myth than from is in these ballads. What did it take for them to change his character so? I mean, while reading, I can get a glimpse of the legend that has been made into countless movies and storybooks and fantasies, but this Robin Hood is kind of a jerk. Don't get me wrong, I am thoroughly enjoying these ballads and tales. I think what I like about them so much is how they are singable. Who doesn't love a good song? Seriously, if Ariana Grande recorded a song with these Robin Hood lyrics, I might actually listen to Ariana Grande. I might still refrain if Nicki Minaj did them, though...
Monday, 20 October 2014
Week 10 Reading Diary: Apache Stories
There's that Raven again! What is it with Native Americans and the importance of a Raven? I mean, I think Ravens are a cool bird and everything, but it is their essence of a god-like figure. That's just so strange to me. Anyway, I think the connection I see between these stories and the Alaska stories from last week is really cool, and I'm really enjoying it so far. However, this is not the main reason I decided to take on the Apache Stories. I originally decided I wanted to read them when I read in the description that there was a Coyote the Trickster involved. That has to be a lot of fun to read about, but I wouldn't know because I'm currently stuck with another Raven thing.
Naiyenesgani is an interesting character. He is a strange hero that I didn't expect to come from a Native American mythology because I thought those were more focused on the animals and nature and things like that. I mean, the guy is cool and everything - just not what I expected to read about. Regardless, I am enjoying these stories so far. I don't think this necessarily beats out my love for the Alaskan mythologies, but it is definitely a fun read.
Now, in the second half we get to the good stuff. Coyote the Trickster is at it. Why do I love this character so much, you may ask. Simply put, he's freaking cool. Specifically, the story of "Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted". It's incredibly tragic and the Coyote is the one who gets tricked in the story. I also think it makes an interesting case on deforistation. I may have to write my story or essay around this one. It's such a fantastic little tale and I really, really enjoy it. If anyone has a chance to read this one, they would be doing themselves quite a favor.
Now, that I finally got into the goodies that are the Coyote stories, I think I might be loving these stories more than the Alaska ones. Now, don't get me wrong. I think the Alaska stories are way cool and I still can't get over the mythology surrounding death, but these stories are amazing. With both mythologies, there is a deep love of animals and nature, which for a Transcendetalist like myself, is absolutely wonderful to read and enjoy. Anyway, I would definitely recommend these readings to anyone and everyone I know.
Naiyenesgani is an interesting character. He is a strange hero that I didn't expect to come from a Native American mythology because I thought those were more focused on the animals and nature and things like that. I mean, the guy is cool and everything - just not what I expected to read about. Regardless, I am enjoying these stories so far. I don't think this necessarily beats out my love for the Alaskan mythologies, but it is definitely a fun read.
Now, in the second half we get to the good stuff. Coyote the Trickster is at it. Why do I love this character so much, you may ask. Simply put, he's freaking cool. Specifically, the story of "Coyote Tries to Make His Children Spotted". It's incredibly tragic and the Coyote is the one who gets tricked in the story. I also think it makes an interesting case on deforistation. I may have to write my story or essay around this one. It's such a fantastic little tale and I really, really enjoy it. If anyone has a chance to read this one, they would be doing themselves quite a favor.
Now, that I finally got into the goodies that are the Coyote stories, I think I might be loving these stories more than the Alaska ones. Now, don't get me wrong. I think the Alaska stories are way cool and I still can't get over the mythology surrounding death, but these stories are amazing. With both mythologies, there is a deep love of animals and nature, which for a Transcendetalist like myself, is absolutely wonderful to read and enjoy. Anyway, I would definitely recommend these readings to anyone and everyone I know.
Friday, 3 October 2014
Week 9 Reading Diary: Alaska
The creation story is oddly similar to the creation story in the Christian
bible. Except, instead of God, we have a Raven. However, the Raven does very
similar things to God. He creates Man, and realizes he is lonely, so creates a
companion in the form of Woman. He creates the sun, and the sky, and the sea,
and everything like that, as it is what is needed for the men and women and
animals to survive. It is interesting to see these parallels, especially with
the section that I found to be the most interesting.
The section I am referring to is that one called "The Flood". Sounds like the flood of the story of Noah, right? It is in a lot of ways. Except, instead of people sinning so much that it makes God angry, it seems that Raven is just angry at humanity, with no explanation why. Anyway, there is a flood caused by a lot of rain. It nearly destroys everything until the Raven seems to get so angry with the people who are surviving that he decides to lower the waters. Weird, right?
Also, it should be noted that birds aren't named nor tides created or fire brought about until way later in the story. Like, I'm entering the halfway point, and the birds are just now being named. It seems there are a lot of things that are taking precedence, or at least there is focus on certain animals and situations being created or happening. It just seems that things are going too slow or there is too much to the story, at least in comparison to most myths I have been reading about throughout this semester.
Now, even after that do we finally get to see more women. That's right. Prior to chapter 12 or 13, or whichever it is that I'm on, there has only been one woman. Raven has to create more so the men and sons have companions, as well. It really makes you wonder how these men got around -- or created for that matter. However, the stories do get better as time goes on. The chapter that speaks on The Land of the Dead is actually quite interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend that one to anybody. And frankly, I might have to do my retelling on that story.
The section I am referring to is that one called "The Flood". Sounds like the flood of the story of Noah, right? It is in a lot of ways. Except, instead of people sinning so much that it makes God angry, it seems that Raven is just angry at humanity, with no explanation why. Anyway, there is a flood caused by a lot of rain. It nearly destroys everything until the Raven seems to get so angry with the people who are surviving that he decides to lower the waters. Weird, right?
Also, it should be noted that birds aren't named nor tides created or fire brought about until way later in the story. Like, I'm entering the halfway point, and the birds are just now being named. It seems there are a lot of things that are taking precedence, or at least there is focus on certain animals and situations being created or happening. It just seems that things are going too slow or there is too much to the story, at least in comparison to most myths I have been reading about throughout this semester.
Now, even after that do we finally get to see more women. That's right. Prior to chapter 12 or 13, or whichever it is that I'm on, there has only been one woman. Raven has to create more so the men and sons have companions, as well. It really makes you wonder how these men got around -- or created for that matter. However, the stories do get better as time goes on. The chapter that speaks on The Land of the Dead is actually quite interesting and enjoyable. I would recommend that one to anybody. And frankly, I might have to do my retelling on that story.
Thursday, 2 October 2014
Week 8 Reading Diary
From the looks of things, I am relatively satisfied with my Reading Diaries so far. Admittadly, I have missed a step in the process, as I have yet to actually put a link to my stories in the Reading Diary. I didn't know I was supposed to do that! Of course, I'm really bad about skimming over things. I need to go back through all my Reading Diaries and correct this error, which may take a little bit of time. However, that seems to me to be the only thing that is truly wrong with them, after glancing over the instructions for every reading diary...unless of course, I'm missing something else. I should glance over it again...
Moving forward, I think what really works for my Reading Diaries is how much like a diary they come out. I'm really good about thinking out loud, or at least conveying the idea of me thinking out loud, and I think that really shines through in my various Reading Diaries. However, I think I might could try keeping these a bit more focused than they are. I almost feel as though they are too "all over the place" to really be conducive to anything they might be used for.
I think the highlight of any single Reading Diary I do is that I make good use of finding connections with other myths and such as I progress through the semester. I think that helps me understand the class better and is important to future studies as well as how I handle different posts in this class throughout the week. All in all, I enjoy my Reading Diaries, but I sometimes wonder if I should completely revamp some things so that they are of better use to me when I do my essays or retellings each week.
Moving forward, I think what really works for my Reading Diaries is how much like a diary they come out. I'm really good about thinking out loud, or at least conveying the idea of me thinking out loud, and I think that really shines through in my various Reading Diaries. However, I think I might could try keeping these a bit more focused than they are. I almost feel as though they are too "all over the place" to really be conducive to anything they might be used for.
I think the highlight of any single Reading Diary I do is that I make good use of finding connections with other myths and such as I progress through the semester. I think that helps me understand the class better and is important to future studies as well as how I handle different posts in this class throughout the week. All in all, I enjoy my Reading Diaries, but I sometimes wonder if I should completely revamp some things so that they are of better use to me when I do my essays or retellings each week.
Tuesday, 30 September 2014
Week 7 Reading Diary: Brer Rabbit
I love these stories! As I've read on a lot of other people's blogs, I really enjoy reading stories based off of movies and TV shows I used to watch. These classic cartoons are popping into my head as I read them and it is a wonderful bit of nostalgia for me. I think my favorite story so far, from the first section, has to either be The Wonderful Tar-Baby Story or The Awful Fate of Mr. Wolf. I love both of them almost equally. I'm quite a big fan of these stories, even though they are quite formulaic, because I love to watch the dumb bad guy (who thinks he's rather smart and cunning) be outwitted by the good guy, whose nonchalance makes me find it even funnier.
The language is a bit difficult to pick up, and I kept trying to read it aloud to help it make more sense. I hate to say it, but reading the stories aloud made me feel almost racist. I know these stories have a place and everything, but the culture I've grown up in has made it seem like this isn't okay. I don't know if that makes any sense, but I may try to do my essay on it later in the week and expand on what I'm really trying to say. Because, like most things, it makes sense in my head...just not when I read it back.
One things, I can't believe I forgot to mention yesterday is the fact that most every animal is "Mr. So-and-so". I find that really interesting, and I'm not entirely sure why, but it makes the story that much more entertaining. Not just because of the personification of the animals, but more so because of the attitude, respect and reverence given to them by these titles. I think it's really cool to read about Mr. Fox or Mr. Wolf or Mr. Rabbit. I kind of like almost as much as I like the "Brer" titles. I think the term "Brer", here, has a ton of cultural significance to it, and it helps give the characters life.
I think my favorite story from the second half is Mr. Rabbit and Mr. Bear, just because I love the classic formula that I mentioned before. I actually had a colleague in my Feature Screenwriting class with Dr. Andy Horton read a Disney-fied Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox and Brer Bear story for a script assignment that we had to do involving a children's book. Hearing him describe his story came flooding back to me as I reading this as well as the other stories in this collection. I think having a collection of Uncle Remus stories is a fantastic thing to possess.
The language is a bit difficult to pick up, and I kept trying to read it aloud to help it make more sense. I hate to say it, but reading the stories aloud made me feel almost racist. I know these stories have a place and everything, but the culture I've grown up in has made it seem like this isn't okay. I don't know if that makes any sense, but I may try to do my essay on it later in the week and expand on what I'm really trying to say. Because, like most things, it makes sense in my head...just not when I read it back.
One things, I can't believe I forgot to mention yesterday is the fact that most every animal is "Mr. So-and-so". I find that really interesting, and I'm not entirely sure why, but it makes the story that much more entertaining. Not just because of the personification of the animals, but more so because of the attitude, respect and reverence given to them by these titles. I think it's really cool to read about Mr. Fox or Mr. Wolf or Mr. Rabbit. I kind of like almost as much as I like the "Brer" titles. I think the term "Brer", here, has a ton of cultural significance to it, and it helps give the characters life.
I think my favorite story from the second half is Mr. Rabbit and Mr. Bear, just because I love the classic formula that I mentioned before. I actually had a colleague in my Feature Screenwriting class with Dr. Andy Horton read a Disney-fied Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox and Brer Bear story for a script assignment that we had to do involving a children's book. Hearing him describe his story came flooding back to me as I reading this as well as the other stories in this collection. I think having a collection of Uncle Remus stories is a fantastic thing to possess.
Monday, 22 September 2014
Week 6 Reading Diary: Japanese Mythology
Gross. Brothers and sisters marrying each other. That's right - Japanese myth spawned from incest. George R.R. Martin would be proud. Izanagi and Izanami are the siblings. God of the Air and Goddess of the Clouds, respectively. Together, they will manipulate the world as they see it and desire it. I won't even attempt to spell their kids' names.
Various gods and goddesses are born and created to have various roles in the world's workings. There is a god of water and the moon and etc. The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi may be the coolest title ever for anything. It has eight heads and eight tails. That's a lot of snake. Of course, because this is Japanese mythology, I'm pretty dang sure this is more accurately a dragon. Anyway, Susa-no-wo tempts it with alcohol and then kills it by using this ridiculously large sword.
Admittadly, the rest of the stories are kind of boring until you get to the adventures involving Yamato, like the Rescue of the Princess. This story has to be inspiration for an Akira Kurosawa film. It's such a similar story. Very good read, and full of fun adventure.
As the readings continue, it seems the highlight of everything is Yamato and his adventures. And I really enjoyed yet another story involving a dragon. I really love this character. He is unlike any other character I've read so far and I think it has to do with the virtue and honour he contains. Regardless of the reason, Yamato makes for a great mythic character that I absolutely love to read and hope to dive a little deeper into.
Japanese mythology has become a staple of my myth study, and I look forward to what else I might be able to uncover throughout the course of this class.
Various gods and goddesses are born and created to have various roles in the world's workings. There is a god of water and the moon and etc. The Eight-Forked Serpent of Koshi may be the coolest title ever for anything. It has eight heads and eight tails. That's a lot of snake. Of course, because this is Japanese mythology, I'm pretty dang sure this is more accurately a dragon. Anyway, Susa-no-wo tempts it with alcohol and then kills it by using this ridiculously large sword.
Admittadly, the rest of the stories are kind of boring until you get to the adventures involving Yamato, like the Rescue of the Princess. This story has to be inspiration for an Akira Kurosawa film. It's such a similar story. Very good read, and full of fun adventure.
As the readings continue, it seems the highlight of everything is Yamato and his adventures. And I really enjoyed yet another story involving a dragon. I really love this character. He is unlike any other character I've read so far and I think it has to do with the virtue and honour he contains. Regardless of the reason, Yamato makes for a great mythic character that I absolutely love to read and hope to dive a little deeper into.
Japanese mythology has become a staple of my myth study, and I look forward to what else I might be able to uncover throughout the course of this class.
Tuesday, 16 September 2014
Week 5 Reading Diary: The Voyages of Sindbad
This week, it is time to journey the seven seas...with seven journeys...on seven seas...yes. Sindbad's travels have always been really cool. Plus, as the introduction to the series of stories suggests, I have always thought there was a correlation between Sindbad and Odysseus. Both characters have an arrogant nature about them and are fond of sailing to seek out adventures.
My favorite story regarding Sindbad, so far at least, is his third voyage. This is the island he visits where he is first dealing with the giant bird known as a "roc". However, the roc isn't even the least of his worries, as this island is full of tons of large creatures that make for an interesting adventure. Of course, he eventually comes upon some giants that are not unlike the Cyclops in The Odyssey...I'm just saying. Anyway, this is probably my favorite of the voyages up to this point.
The last voyage is also pretty entertaining. I love how every single voyage starts with Sindbad saying he's never going to travel the seas again, but...and then he's off on another high-seas adventure. This last one starts a little differently to me, it seems. He goes on this trip as a favor for the friend he made in the last voyage.
The best part of this story? The elephants. I love me some elephants. These tales are so exotic and fun that I can't help but love them. If anyone actually reads this diary, please take the time to read these stories. They are absolutely fantastic.
My favorite story regarding Sindbad, so far at least, is his third voyage. This is the island he visits where he is first dealing with the giant bird known as a "roc". However, the roc isn't even the least of his worries, as this island is full of tons of large creatures that make for an interesting adventure. Of course, he eventually comes upon some giants that are not unlike the Cyclops in The Odyssey...I'm just saying. Anyway, this is probably my favorite of the voyages up to this point.
The last voyage is also pretty entertaining. I love how every single voyage starts with Sindbad saying he's never going to travel the seas again, but...and then he's off on another high-seas adventure. This last one starts a little differently to me, it seems. He goes on this trip as a favor for the friend he made in the last voyage.
The best part of this story? The elephants. I love me some elephants. These tales are so exotic and fun that I can't help but love them. If anyone actually reads this diary, please take the time to read these stories. They are absolutely fantastic.
Tuesday, 9 September 2014
Week 4 - Reading Diary
Oh, yeah! You know what time it is? That's right, playas! It's Ancient Egypt mythology time! This stuff is fantastic - whacked out, full of betrayal, and clearly one of the most intriguing mythologies in history.
Ra - here is one of the coolest gods ever. First of all, the strength of this guy is based on the position of the sun. Crazy awesome. But wait, there's more! He spends most of his time taking new forms and walking the earth, so he's not only a god, but he also takes the classic role of "the wanderer". It's such a rich story.
The secret name of Ra is a fantastic story. I'm quite interested in this stuff. The gods of Egypt seem relatively Greek, but something seems to set them apart from the gods of Greek mythology, who always seem to be incredibly human - possibly to a fault. However, the Egyptian gods are above the human race, most assuredly.
I think my favorite story, so far, is that of the Wax Crocodile. Crocodiles in general are a fantastic creature and play a very interesting role in the Egyptian mythology. I still don't entirely understand what the story means, but that's part of the intrigue for me. I think there's so much going on, symbolically, that I need to reread it and see if there is anything else I might can discover in terms of hidden meaning.
The Two Brothers is a pretty awesome story. I thought for a minute it was going to be like Cain and Abel, but no. It ended up nice and different. I really like the younger brother, Bata, but the elder brother, Anpu, also seems to have many virtuous qualities. For instance, Anpu travels for three years looking for a way to revive Bata, and succeeds! It's pretty awesome!
Then Bata becomes a sacred bull - what? Anyway, he eventually becomes a Pharoah, I guess, as he rules for 30 years. An interesting twist is that, upon his death, his brother, Anpu, takes over and rules in his stead.
The Book of Thoth - is it imaginary? Is it just part of a cruel trick? Or does it actually mean something? Who knows? It sure makes for some excellent poetry, though. Wait! It does exist! And in it is all the power of the universe? How cool is that? If you can't tell, I'm still really enjoying this business. The Egyptians had some pretty great stories to tell, if I do say so myself. Which I do. Because I just did.
Also, King Rhampsinitus has ties to the Greek. I told you there were relations there.
Ra - here is one of the coolest gods ever. First of all, the strength of this guy is based on the position of the sun. Crazy awesome. But wait, there's more! He spends most of his time taking new forms and walking the earth, so he's not only a god, but he also takes the classic role of "the wanderer". It's such a rich story.
The secret name of Ra is a fantastic story. I'm quite interested in this stuff. The gods of Egypt seem relatively Greek, but something seems to set them apart from the gods of Greek mythology, who always seem to be incredibly human - possibly to a fault. However, the Egyptian gods are above the human race, most assuredly.
I think my favorite story, so far, is that of the Wax Crocodile. Crocodiles in general are a fantastic creature and play a very interesting role in the Egyptian mythology. I still don't entirely understand what the story means, but that's part of the intrigue for me. I think there's so much going on, symbolically, that I need to reread it and see if there is anything else I might can discover in terms of hidden meaning.
The Two Brothers is a pretty awesome story. I thought for a minute it was going to be like Cain and Abel, but no. It ended up nice and different. I really like the younger brother, Bata, but the elder brother, Anpu, also seems to have many virtuous qualities. For instance, Anpu travels for three years looking for a way to revive Bata, and succeeds! It's pretty awesome!
Then Bata becomes a sacred bull - what? Anyway, he eventually becomes a Pharoah, I guess, as he rules for 30 years. An interesting twist is that, upon his death, his brother, Anpu, takes over and rules in his stead.
The Book of Thoth - is it imaginary? Is it just part of a cruel trick? Or does it actually mean something? Who knows? It sure makes for some excellent poetry, though. Wait! It does exist! And in it is all the power of the universe? How cool is that? If you can't tell, I'm still really enjoying this business. The Egyptians had some pretty great stories to tell, if I do say so myself. Which I do. Because I just did.
Also, King Rhampsinitus has ties to the Greek. I told you there were relations there.
Tuesday, 2 September 2014
Week 3 Reading Diary: The Legends of Noah
Well, here's a cool little story. Cain kills his brother Abel and the whole world goes to pot. Noah is the only spiritual guy on the planet - not an exaggeration. So, God tells him, "Build a huge boat, because I'm gonna make it rain." This is not to be confused with 'making it rain' - the art of earning dollars and tossing them in the air like a playa.
So Noah gets to work, and this is what makes him such a groovy cat, he works forever. He takes several years to make this boat out of gopher wood (what the heck is that?), all because some voice in the sky tells him to. He's that faithful. I mean, I've got faith and everything, but not like that. But then, what's even better, is that his family helps him out. They're all like, "Okay, Noah. We do what you feel is best." None of them had ever seen rain before! It's crazy! Plus, if you have seen the Bill Cosby routine on this, it is even better.
Anyway, God floods the earth and everything, but not before Noah and his family get two of every animal on this Ark. For 40 days and 40 nights, it rains like crazy. Then eventually, the Ark lands on ground, the dove comes back with a branch in its mouth, and they leave.
God makes a covenant with Noah and his family, and promises to never flood the whole earth again. Eventually, Noah gets crazy drunk and his kids have to cover his nakedness. Eventually, generations later (which passes through the tragically named, Nimrod), people attempt to make a tower that leads to Heaven. God doesn't like that and separates people by skin and language.
So Noah gets to work, and this is what makes him such a groovy cat, he works forever. He takes several years to make this boat out of gopher wood (what the heck is that?), all because some voice in the sky tells him to. He's that faithful. I mean, I've got faith and everything, but not like that. But then, what's even better, is that his family helps him out. They're all like, "Okay, Noah. We do what you feel is best." None of them had ever seen rain before! It's crazy! Plus, if you have seen the Bill Cosby routine on this, it is even better.
Anyway, God floods the earth and everything, but not before Noah and his family get two of every animal on this Ark. For 40 days and 40 nights, it rains like crazy. Then eventually, the Ark lands on ground, the dove comes back with a branch in its mouth, and they leave.
God makes a covenant with Noah and his family, and promises to never flood the whole earth again. Eventually, Noah gets crazy drunk and his kids have to cover his nakedness. Eventually, generations later (which passes through the tragically named, Nimrod), people attempt to make a tower that leads to Heaven. God doesn't like that and separates people by skin and language.
Tuesday, 26 August 2014
Week 2:Ovid's Metamorphoses I
Deucalion and Pyrrha
There's a flood? I thought I chose Classics and not the Bible. Interesting how the logic behind both floods is similar.
The world is drowned, but there are survivors - the titular characters. Adam and Eve reborn?
Note the use of the conch.
Themis is the goddess they appeal to. She tells them to scatter their mother's bones (i.e. throw rocks). Pyrrha is all like, "Ain't gonna happen!"
They hesitate, but agree to do it. The stones that Deucalion throws turn into men, and the stones that Pyrrha throwa turn into women. Yay, procreation!
Io
Io is raped by Zeus/Jupiter, and is turned into a heifer so the god can hide her from Juno. However, she is claimed to the earth. If Zeus argues, he gives his deeds away, otherwise he must forego the love.
She looks at herself in a pool and is horrified by what she is. She runs away crying.
She finds her father, Inachus, and follows him and his family around.
Argus takes her away, but Jupiter seeks to kill Argus so he can have his heifer, and has his son, Mercury, live out the task.
She is eventually turned back into a human.
Phaethon and the Sun
Phaethon has a desire to drive the chariot in the sun and heads to the Palace of the Sun.
He is instructed on how to properly operate it.
It turns out to be much more difficult a task than could be expected.
Phaethon's Ride
Phaethon begs to drive the chariot despite warnings against doing so.
Aurora, the goddess of the dawn, then begins to rise as she does every morning. Phaethon is to drive behind her to bring the sun.
However, the horses prove to be too difficult to control and Phaethon not only struggles to control them but also lets go of the reigns like a moron.
Now, the sun begins to get to close to the earth and the mountains begin to burn. The earth whines and complains.
The Death of Phaethon
Jupiter fixes the issue, but Phaethon literally falls like a dying star.
Cycnus becomes a swan, which had previously never existed.
Phaethon's father refuses to do any more work as he is overcome with grief, so Sol comes in and takes over the sun duty.
Callisto
Once again, Jupiter can't keep it in his pants. He rapes Callisto, a nymph under the care of the goddess, Diana.
Diana realizes what has happened to Callisto, and tells her to go away. Eventually, she is turned into a bear.
Now Callisto, along with Arcas - the grandson of Lycaon - are made into constellations and placed in the sky.
Semele
Jupiter has - yet again - knocked up a woman. This time, her name is Semele. She is pregnant with Jupiter's child. Juno is pretty upset.
Semele asks for the "touch of Jupiter", so to speak. However, her body can't take it.
The baby is still delivered, and it's Dionysus.
Echo
Dionysus' birth causes Jupiter and Juno to argue over the pleasures of love. To settle their debate, they go to Tiresias - who has been both sexes at one time or other - and he says Juno has it right.
Narcissus is born and becomes a handsome devil. He catches the eye of Echo, a nymph who played lookout while Jupiter was off doing the nasty with various other nymphs and was given the curse of only being able to say the last word someone else has said.
She comes on to Narcissus but he is not attracted to her and runs away. Echo cries and is shamed, and she hides away never to be seen again.
Narcissus
Nemesis hears the cries of the nymphs that ill should befall Narcissus, so she makes a pool nearby very clear and Narcissus looks into it, only to discover and fall in love with himself.
He loves himself so much, but can't be with himself. He gets really emotional and dies...sort of. He is transformed into a flower.
Pyramus and Thisbe
see Romeo and Juliet, but with a lion instead of a monk.
Mars and Venus
Not a lot going on here. These two have an affair, the husband (Vulcan) finds out. He decides to ensnare them, and when they are caught in the act, the rest of the gods get a peep show. It's like Porky's. Sort of.
Perseus and Andromeda
see Clash of the Titans.
Perseus and Medusa
see above.
There's a flood? I thought I chose Classics and not the Bible. Interesting how the logic behind both floods is similar.
The world is drowned, but there are survivors - the titular characters. Adam and Eve reborn?
Note the use of the conch.
Themis is the goddess they appeal to. She tells them to scatter their mother's bones (i.e. throw rocks). Pyrrha is all like, "Ain't gonna happen!"
They hesitate, but agree to do it. The stones that Deucalion throws turn into men, and the stones that Pyrrha throwa turn into women. Yay, procreation!
Io
Io is raped by Zeus/Jupiter, and is turned into a heifer so the god can hide her from Juno. However, she is claimed to the earth. If Zeus argues, he gives his deeds away, otherwise he must forego the love.
She looks at herself in a pool and is horrified by what she is. She runs away crying.
She finds her father, Inachus, and follows him and his family around.
Argus takes her away, but Jupiter seeks to kill Argus so he can have his heifer, and has his son, Mercury, live out the task.
She is eventually turned back into a human.
Phaethon and the Sun
Phaethon has a desire to drive the chariot in the sun and heads to the Palace of the Sun.
He is instructed on how to properly operate it.
It turns out to be much more difficult a task than could be expected.
Phaethon's Ride
Phaethon begs to drive the chariot despite warnings against doing so.
Aurora, the goddess of the dawn, then begins to rise as she does every morning. Phaethon is to drive behind her to bring the sun.
However, the horses prove to be too difficult to control and Phaethon not only struggles to control them but also lets go of the reigns like a moron.
Now, the sun begins to get to close to the earth and the mountains begin to burn. The earth whines and complains.
The Death of Phaethon
Jupiter fixes the issue, but Phaethon literally falls like a dying star.
Cycnus becomes a swan, which had previously never existed.
Phaethon's father refuses to do any more work as he is overcome with grief, so Sol comes in and takes over the sun duty.
Callisto
Once again, Jupiter can't keep it in his pants. He rapes Callisto, a nymph under the care of the goddess, Diana.
Diana realizes what has happened to Callisto, and tells her to go away. Eventually, she is turned into a bear.
Now Callisto, along with Arcas - the grandson of Lycaon - are made into constellations and placed in the sky.
Semele
Jupiter has - yet again - knocked up a woman. This time, her name is Semele. She is pregnant with Jupiter's child. Juno is pretty upset.
Semele asks for the "touch of Jupiter", so to speak. However, her body can't take it.
The baby is still delivered, and it's Dionysus.
Echo
Dionysus' birth causes Jupiter and Juno to argue over the pleasures of love. To settle their debate, they go to Tiresias - who has been both sexes at one time or other - and he says Juno has it right.
Narcissus is born and becomes a handsome devil. He catches the eye of Echo, a nymph who played lookout while Jupiter was off doing the nasty with various other nymphs and was given the curse of only being able to say the last word someone else has said.
She comes on to Narcissus but he is not attracted to her and runs away. Echo cries and is shamed, and she hides away never to be seen again.
Narcissus
Nemesis hears the cries of the nymphs that ill should befall Narcissus, so she makes a pool nearby very clear and Narcissus looks into it, only to discover and fall in love with himself.
He loves himself so much, but can't be with himself. He gets really emotional and dies...sort of. He is transformed into a flower.
Pyramus and Thisbe
see Romeo and Juliet, but with a lion instead of a monk.
Mars and Venus
Not a lot going on here. These two have an affair, the husband (Vulcan) finds out. He decides to ensnare them, and when they are caught in the act, the rest of the gods get a peep show. It's like Porky's. Sort of.
Perseus and Andromeda
see Clash of the Titans.
Perseus and Medusa
see above.
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