Troilus and Criseyde

Tiana Connell #8659 Mr. Powers AP Lang &Comp, Period 1 21 October 2011 Love’s Spell In the novel Troilus and Criseyde, by Geoffrey Chaucer, we witness the comparison of two human beings falling in love with each other. Troilus and Criseyde experience love in different ways; either by Cupid’s arrow or through the manipulations of relatives they are forced to pursue each other under love’s spell. Through their story, the readers learn the valuable lesson of love’s wrath. In the beginning stanzas, we learned that Troilus was a strong and admirable knight of Troy. Troilus, who once joked about those who fell in love, became a victim to love himself. Cupid shot Troilus causing him to fall in love with Criseyde, the first girl he saw. â€Å"So was it with this proud and fiery knight, son of a famous king though he might be; he had supposed that nothing had the might to steer his heart against a will as free as his; yet, at a look, immediately, he was on fire, and he, in pride above all others, suddenly was slave to love†(Book I, 33). Through Cupid’s spell on Troilus, he experienced the feeling of having loved and the pain and sorrow it brought. He became sickened by love and his entire persona suffered in devastation. Chaucer says, â€Å"And from then on love robbed him of his deep and made an enemy of his food; his sorrow increased and multiplied, he could not keep his countenance and colour, eve or morrow, had anyone noticed it; he sought to borrow the names of other illnesses, to cover his hot fire, lest it showed him as a lover† (Book I, 70). Pandarus, Troilus’s fellow friend and uncle of his lover Criseyde, noticed Troilus’s alters in mood and discovered his love for Criseyde. Pandarus, overjoyed by the news, decided to take action by introducing them to one another and to the beginning of a sorrowful adventure. Instead of being hit by Cupid’s arrow, Criseyde was encouraged by her uncle, Pandarus, to give Troilus’s love a chance. He confronted Criseyde and questioned her opinion of Troilus, in hopes to persuade her into a relationship with him. However, when Pandarus informed Criseyde of Troilus’s love for her, she became upset with the inappropriateness of the subject. â€Å"With that he ceased to speak, and hung his head, and she burst out in tears as she replied ‘Alas, for grief! O why am I not dead, since all good faith on earth has surely died? What would a stranger do to me; she cried, ‘When one I thought my friend, the best of them, bids me to seek a love he should condemn? †(Book II, 59). Although she was honored by Troilus’s flattering notes, Criseyde in return did not show any mutual emotions in her responding letters. She gave him thanks for every good intention towards her, but declined to give him ground for greater hope; she never would be bound in love, save as a sister; this, to please him, she gladly would allow, if that could ease him†(Book II, 175). However, through the pressures of Pandarus, Troilus and Criseyde became lovers, until the war began, which inevitably s eparated them. Criseyde promised to come back to Troilus when time permitted. However, the untruthful Criseyde gave her heart and broach, given to her from Troilus, to Diomede in the midst of war. Chaucer’s objective in the writing of Troilus and Criseyde was to portray the confusing and mixed messages of love. In the beginning of the novel we are taught that love is the most fulfilling emotion one can experience. He explains the happiness and joy that love brings through Troilus and Criseyde’s romantic relationship. However, in the ending of the story Chaucer shares the pain and sorrow of love. He warns readers to stay away and focus all love on God. â€Å"Oh all you fresh young people, he or she, in whom love grows ripens year by year, come home, come home from worldly vanity! Cast the heart’s countenance in love and fear upwards to God, who in His image here has mad you; think this world is but a fair passing as soon as flower-scent in air† (Book V, 263). Therefore, Chaucer leaves the audience with confusion of love. Through Cupid’s arrow and Pandarus’s manipulation, the reader develops the story of Troilus and Criseyde’s roller coaster relationship of love. Though it began in beauty and happiness, and ended in grief and sorrow, the audience is taught a valuable lesson about love from Geoffrey Chaucer. Sometimes love brings happiness, while other times it brings misery.

My Life as a Superhero Essay

I just want originality, I want to be different from the people around me. The conventional life – go to school, go to college, be a nurse like the other cousins, get married, be a good Catholic wife with three children and be completely conformative – never once appealed to me. The ability to become superhuman, to be able to go down in history for making a difference, that’s the kind of life I want. Whether it be by musical impact or donating six billion Euro to charities, I want to be different, I want to be me – but in superhuman form, I’d have all my little quirks and mannerisms but with another side, a side that inspires people, that would make people want to be better. Lately I’ve been pondering the subject of superheroes. Everyone has their favourite – mine is caught between Batman and Thor – and I think everyone at some time has fantasized about being one. I know I have, and so often do. Of course, unlike Batman, who uses cunning, strength, battle experience and a strangely cool mental make-up to his advantage, or uses his ‘mind over matter attitude’, if you prefer. I’m thinking that having superpowers might be one of the requirements of the job. Unfortunately, most of the powers that are of interest to me, especially the ability to bend space, stop time and invisibility, have been taken. What’s a fledging superhero to do? I flirted with shape shifting or the ability to manipulate the weather. I thought about being able to communicate with animals, but other than being very Dr. Doolittle-ish, how would that come in handy when trying to save the world? It wouldn’t. No, it would have to something formidable, something to strike fear through the veins of my enemies. So, after much thought, I’ve decided that I want to be able to transform myself into any element, wind, rain, fire, the Periodic Table, whatever, which I think would really come in handy as a superhero. It could also cause some problems, which is perfectly fine, because most superheroes are flawed  in some way and their powers can often be a curse to them. I don’t want to be any exception, a perfect life would be too boring for me. Being able to change into any element would not only be a cool power to show off, but it would be extremely practical too. If someone is shooting at me, I can turn myself to iron and not only dodge the bullets being shot my way, but bounce them back. If I’m being chased I can quite conveniently turn to steam and drift away. The same practicality applies if I want to sneak into a room. I’d just turn to smoke and go through the keyhole. And if I need to escape a sticky situation I can stand above a sewer grate and turn to water, reconstituting when I hit the pool below. There are no limits to how useful a tool this could be. Being able to transform myself like this makes me almost invincible†¦ †¦Which could be a problem. It may be too perfect. My powers would have to have a flaw. For instance, maybe I can only retain my transformation for a certain amount of time, say five minutes. Maybe I frequently find that messy circumstances only get messier because she can’t retain her powers, who knows, I could probably end up utterly unable to use them at all! I would eventually learn that, like the Force of Star Wars fame, my powers could grow through time, practice and training. Like any dedicated student, I would constantly be working at skills she doesn’t quite understand. Maybe I would find a Yoda-like mentor to help me control and strengthen my powers. I also need to take into consideration just how many elements I could transform into. It may be interesting to be able to run the Gambit (The most epic X-Man there is!) of the metals; it could be fun to turn into titanium, although the consequence could easily be that I only live a half-life or something like that, which sounds problematic. But it would certainly add to the fabric of my life. I may never have to turn to anything but myself, but I could change if I wanted to. Practicality states that it would have to be a solid element and nothing colourless, odourless or tasteless; what good is it to become hydrogen? At first glance you might also think there would be no practical reason to transform into halogens or any of the Noble Gasses. But, come to think of it, if I wanted to light up a dark alleyway I could just turn to neon. Of course, I don’t actually turn to neon. Maybe my body just starts to glow brightly. Of course, I would have to have a back story. I would have to explain how I discover my powers. You just don’t wake up one day made of superhero-material. Perhaps I’m a physicist. Maybe it’s night and I’m working in the lab alone. Maybe there’s an accident and an explosion sends a white-hot fireball right towards me. Unable to move in time I instinctively turn to iron, saving me from the flames rushing harmlessly by. In the aftermath I lie on the floor, gazing in amazement and disbelief at my metallic body. This is interesting, I think before I quickly return to my human form. But I’m shook at what just happened, not comprehending whether it actually really happened. Later, when realizing that I actually had turned to metal, I decide to test my newfound powers, perhaps by thinking of helium. Curiously, my body doesn’t inflate like a balloon, but begins to levitate, gently lifting me excitingly skyward until I am level with the ceiling. Then the powers suddenly vanish and I crash to the floor below. Hmmm, maybe I’m on to something here†¦ My mam and I have discussed this theory at length, coming up with stupid names like ‘Elementary’ and such but we never really came to a final decision, I suppose I’d have to just let the people decide what to call me. Honestly, I can’t help but fantasise over this topic all day long but in the end I always come back to the same statement: â€Å"If it’s meant to be, wait. It will happen.† So I suppose I’ll just keep on waiting!

Breastfeeding A Healthy And Beautiful Way For Mothers

Breastfeeding mothers face many challenges when trying to exclusively breastfeed such easy access to formula, physical complications such as pain and lack of professional and peer support. The short-term and long-term benefits of breastfeeding for mom and baby are not as widespread as health care professionals believe and it is thought that an increase in this knowledge would boost breastfeeding rates. Lack of support is one of the main reasons many mothers either do not breastfeed or quit after†¦ Breastfeeding is something that women have done since the beginning of time. However, now women have other options other than breastfeeding. Yet, researchers have found that by not breastfeeding both mothers and children might be missing out on important benefits. BREASTFEEDING CAN LEAD TO BETTER HEALTH, INCREASED BRAIN DEVELOPMENT AND CREATES STRONG PARENTAL BONDS THAT AFFECTS FUTURE RELATIONSHIPS. Although there are many different variables in a woman’s lifestyle that affect the effectiveness of†¦ Breastfeeding for New Mothers Imagine how it might feel to be a new mother who has decided to breastfeed her baby. There are so many thoughts and questions swirling around in her brain. Is she doing it right? Is the baby getting enough milk? Perhaps most importantly, how to hold and position the baby. These are just a few of the questions that as an expecting mother, I wonder about. Although breastfeeding is a natural process, each new mother will go through her own process of trial and error and†¦ Breastfeeding It is amazing to see the pictures of mothers who are breastfeeding their babies. That fascinating images were created from the inspiration. Unfortunately, that image has faded in the minds of today 's women. In fact, only 15% of American women breastfeed their babies in a year, and this rate is the lowest in the world (Springen). Why? Is breastfeeding very uncomfortable? Breastfeeding has negative impact on the mothers? Is breast milk from mothers unhealthy to their infants? The answer†¦ The aggregate that will be discussed in the following paper are breastfeeding mothers, with a focus on breastfeeding mother’s that currently reside in North and West Vancouver. With Canada and Vancouver’s north shore being a multicultural community, this aggregate is made up of a diverse group of women who range in age and ethnicity. In Canada, the average age of these women is 29.6 years (â€Å"Family Life†, 2014). When looking at the province of British Columbia is should be noted that the maternal†¦ ?ISSUES OF BREASTFEEDING FOR MOTHER OF TWINS? INTRODUCTION Multiple births are often difficult and mother faces a real dilemma on breastfeeding. It is even harder in the cases of twins and the mothers are the ones who go through stress of breastfeeding. This research is done to find out what are the issues that a breastfeeding mother of twins faces along with the factors that causes the mothers to change their decision of breastfeeding. LITERATURE REVIEW Mothers always want to provide their babies†¦ Is Breastfeeding Inevitably Best for Healthy Development? Ndeye Khary Seck Brookdale Community College Psych 208 Professor Brent Costleigh 8/13/16 The biggest decision to make as an expectant mother is whether to breastfeed or formula feed the baby to come. Organizations such as World Health Organizations (WHO), American Medical Association (AMA), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and La Leche League (LLG) recommend breastfeeding as the best option for the newborn. Most of†¦ Breastfeeding is the normal way to feed an infant. International organizations such as the World Health Organization, the International Pediatric Association, UNICEF, and the International Lactation Consultant Association promote breastfeeding. In the United States, breastfeeding is promoted by the Surgeon General, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the American Public Health Association The American†¦ The article I chose to read and review is â€Å"Five E’s to Support Mothers with Postpartum Depression for Breastfeeding Success.† The reason I chose this article is because I have never had to work with or deal with any type of depression of my own so I want to be able to help someone else succeed in an area that I have no experience in. I know that just reading an article will not make me an expert but it will definitely give me something to start with. How to provide support to Mother’s wanting to†¦ In the past mothers depend greatly on breastmilk as the best way of feeding babies. With the advancement in technology and daily hassles, mothers turn to either breastfeed for a couple of months, then formula feed their babies. Every mother has the right to decide whether to breastfeed or bottle feed, this personal right will be supported no matter the decision. However, exclusive breastfeeding is the best thing a mother can give to her baby for the first six month of the baby’s life. This is because†¦

Health and disease in human populations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Health and disease in human populations - Essay Example This essay outlines the hazards of agriculture on health with regard to diseases, illnesses, and work hazards; and will outline the benefits of farm production by taking a look at food security, physical and mental health, and social environments. According to Schenker (661-664), farming involves contact to a variety of respiratory toxins exposing farmers to various respiratory conditions. This includes contact to organic dusts through grain handling and enclosed animal feeding ways. For example, farmers that keep a large number animals can spend long hours in confined facilities exposing them to organic dust. Grain dirt is also inorganic dust and grains like sorghum appear to be the most associated with respiratory symptoms. Farmers risk exposed to bacterial, microbial, fungal organisms and toxic gases. Inorganic dirt is mainly soil component and has a high level of silica. This risk is associated mainly with farmers in arid regions. Chemical poisoning is another risk attached to farming practices. When not properly used can lead to death through poisoning. Price of medical attention, reduced productivity can be high. In emergent countries, wellbeing risks related to farming chemical products are having high chances of occur rence. Farmers in developing countries lack the knowledge on proper use of farm chemicals and regulatory systems of chemicals. Chemicals used in agriculture cause metal poisoning to natural sources of water. This can create immense health risks for populations that live in those areas. Agriculture practices provide reproduction places for disease and promote parasite longevity; cause loss of essential marauder species that control parasites increasing man-vector contact (Agricultural Development and Vector-Borne Diseases, 16). This includes parasites like mosquitoes. Irrigation schemes, crops grown, chemical inputs can all lead to the promotion of breeding of vectors that cause disease. Facilities

Assess the role of ethics and compliance in pepsi-cola financial Essay

Assess the role of ethics and compliance in pepsi-cola financial environment and procedures they have in place to ensure ethical behavior - Essay Example iding principles namely: prioritizing the welfare of the consumers; ensuring the quality of the products they sell; ensuring the integrity in all business dealings especially financial transactions; respecting other people and employing teamwork in all business dealings; including long-term short-term and goals; and embracing diversity as well as ensuring representation of all groups (Ferrell and Ferrell, 2010). Compliance is ensured through committees that formulate resolution strategies and establishes recommendations necessary to support them. The compliance committee is comprised of four subcommittees whereby finance sub-committee is one of them. The finance subcommittee is involved in maintaining financial accountability across all the company structures. PepsiCo commits to achievement of business and financial success that does not negatively affect the society and maintains a favorable reputation. The approach of the company is to ensure that the financial performance is chara cterized by integrity and enhances the shareholder value. According to PepsiCo Inc., (2010a), the company continues to promote impeccable financial performance through balancing both short-term and long-term goals and extending investments in the strategic global regions to compel sustainable growth. The management has also identified challenges that need to be overcome in attaining the company objectives. The management team of PepsiCo monitors the quality indicators in assessing the financial condition and the business results. According to Ferrell and Ferrell, (2010), the company is committed to maintaining strict corporate standards that ensure the integrity and accountability of all the company processes. This commitment is affirmed by the governance standards that the company applies. The policies applied by the company in achieving proper application of governance include Audit Committee Charter, Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, Corporate Governance Guidelines,

Case analysis Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

Analysis - Case Study Example , they have not managed to make significant inroads into the rapidly expanding Indian economy which despite being Asian and sharing a common border with them practiced a different culture. In recognition of this scenario, Haier launched in India in 2004 and appointed Banerjee T. K., an Indian National as its president for the country’s operations. They adopted the three-in-one strategy that had been successfully adopted in other global markets like America and Europe. The first step of the strategy involved exportation with no fixed distributor. The second step introduced a centralized distributor. The third step saw the company set up a manufacturing plant in the country. Their market analysis determined that for Haier to break into the top three home appliances brands in India the company had to adopt a localization strategy and an aggressive marketing campaign. They adopted this measures but despite their efforts the company only managed a 7.7 percent turnover increase within India in the 5 years of Banerjee’s presidency. With respect to the situation and the fact that the Indian investment was not paying off Erick Braganza was appointed as president in 2009. The company’s human resource underwent an overhaul, operations streamlined and a new marketing strategy adopted. In response to this measures the company experienced a period of growth and increase in turnover, though the sustainability of this growth was questioned. Determining the sustainability of Haier’s growth in India necessitates a market and situational analysis. A situational analysis of Haier’s position in India shows that they; had a bad reputation as low quality electronics imitators whose only advantage was low product prices; cultural differences, most of India’s population residing in rural areas meant that there was a cultural clash between the Chinese owned company and rural Indian market; high Indian government imposed tariffs on foreign owned business establishments that

Population based nursing care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Population based nursing care - Essay Example These endeavors are not aimed at a selected group of people or are characteristic of individualized care; rather it is aimed to make the health status of the entire identified populations better (Maurer & Smith, 2005). A point to be noted is that the term based here does not refer to any place or a setting. On the contrary, it means that on which care is going to be provided (Maurer & Smith, 2005). The main purpose of public-based care is to provide the community healthcare in conditions that are deemed as healthy by the people. Moreover it constitutes organized endeavors aimed for the population as a whole. Generally community is regarded as a group of people with some element common to them. Community derives from the Latin munus, meaning gift, and cum, meaning together (â€Å"Community†, 2010). Therefore it community is a group of people with some shared interests. More specifically, it is defined as a group of people who live together, have the same government ruling them and common cultural and historical heritage (Hart, 1998). Description of a community usually entails a peaceful, egalitarian social form, sharing their values and life and engaged in a social interaction (â€Å"Community†, 2010). In order to provide care to the community, one needs to use the available resources and the assets of the population on the defined community and to evaluate the capability of that community to meet the required health targets (â€Å"Population-Based†, 2003). In order to provide population-based care, one needs to identify and take into account the health determinants that can impact the delivery of healthcare. Such determinants can be social, environmental and behavioral. The provision of population-based care also necessitates the identification of issues that are pertinent to the delivery of healthcare in the population and can subsequently affect the health outcomes. Nurses and healthcare

Envisioning America & What Caused the Pueblo Revolt Essay - 2

Envisioning America & What Caused the Pueblo Revolt - Essay Example With this New England, we can rid our country of the offal that can work on the land whilst bringing riches to the emptied coffers of the Treasury. Moreover, the potential wealth from this country could launch more ships in the efforts to expand Her Majesty’s empire. Once the Treasury will bear the fruit of the rewards of this New England and we can rid our country of the criminal peasants stirring trouble in the North and Scotland, Her Majesty will be eternally grateful to our efforts in conquering this new territory. The only problem I can see in appropriating this New England to Her Majesty’s territory is the natives. I hear that there are nearly a million of them living between the Mississippi River and the Atlantic Ocean. On the journey to New England, I heard numerous stories from the other travellers of these natives being barbarians, worshipping pagan gods that wear no clothes. At worst, I heard that these natives were warriors engaging in cannibalism and anti Christian practice. However, on arrival to this abundant new territory, most surprising and most welcome have been the natives in their unconditional hospitality. Whilst unusual in appearance and their religious beliefs clearly far from the trueth, they are far removed from the barbarians and haughty people seen in pictures back in England. Indeed, they are friendly, loving and faithful and void of treason. Yet their religious practice is pagan and they lack enlightenment. What they don’t know at home in England is that there are many different tribes amongst these natives, all with different cultures and different practices. Their nature leads me to believe that we shall be able to reform their religious ways and be faithful to the Christian religion, but the task will not be easy. The different tribes believe in different gods and have developed

Contextual studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Contextual studies - Essay Example Human skill, mindset and imagination, are critical variables in the defining works of human creation, inclusive of the aspect of ornamentation. Trilling (1991), provides an impressive variety of ornament (artwork), defining human history; from the Paleolithic era, to the present; thus enabling human appreciation. The reader or audience is thus appreciative of both the historical importance, and the inherent aesthetic value of human architecture and ornament (85). Although the prevailing modernist emphasis, on the unadorned art form, pushed art ornamentation to the very margins of the West’s taste and preference during the 20th Century, a revival of the same is underway. This may be informed by the essence of human appreciation for art in terms of aesthetic beauty, ornament, heritage and functionality (Trilling, 1991:88). The selected authors are critical to the evaluation and understanding of ornament utility (ornamentation), concerning architecture and design. Their relevance is derived from accomplished work, data collection and research carried out. These select authors include James Trilling, Pevsner, Read and Worringer, amongst others. There will be a development of the thesis, formulated around the argument that ornament use is a right, and not a crime. This will entail a discussion of the pros and cons of the argument, through the thesis statement, which will be criticized in the form of an antithesis. Following will be a synthesis of findings, to be conclusively ended in a reflective way. A bibliography, will round up the work, basing it on the right of ornament use in architecture, and human design. A debate exists, as to whether ornament is a right, or a crime. It is the intention of this paper, to further provide proof, of ornament as a right; concerning architecture and design. This is from the past eras to the present, displaying various examples

Describe Commodus Essay Example for Free

Describe Commodus Essay Commodus changes for the worse. He is innately devious and this is not resolved throughout Gladiator. He identifies his main adversary as Maximus, his fathers favourite, but in reality it is his own lack of moral fibre that is his greatest enemy. Maximuss fallicious death triggers a surge towards a more confident, vehement Commodus, but when Maximus resurfaces there is a resumption of his initial personality. As any emergence any improvement retracts. Maximuss strengths are Commoduss weakenesses. Commodus realises this and holds Maximus in contempt. Maximus is everything Commodus aspires to be. Whilst Maximuss glass is full of orthodox qualities, Commoduss is almost empty, apart from a few unvirtuous qualities he embodies. It is this emptiness that makes his lack of moral fibre so transparent. Marcus Aurelius sees through the glass and intends to deny Commodus succession by reverting Rome to a Republic. It is here in Commoduss murder of his father that we see the true extent of his destructive capacity. Maximus has the love of Lucilla, in which Commodus intensley desires. Maximus has the love of Aurelius, the kind of filial love Commodus has always longed for. Maximus has acceptance, the kind Commodus will never achieve because he is an effete. Maximus is loved, respected and is in commands of power, whereas Commodus is not. It is these intangible commodities that motivate Commodus to aspire to metaphorically become Maximus. He acknowledges Maximuss charisma as an obstacle and sets out to eradicate Maximus accordingly. He is however, unsuccessful in his plight. Commodus indicts others as the cause of his deficency. He fails to recognise that his greatest obstacle is his inner-self. If he had identified the key to success as self-discovery, then he may have acheived his goals. Commodus does not however; and makes no growth positive growth as a character. He remains immoral, fearful, ambitous, greedy, weak, and shrouded in consuming jealousy. These qualities are expressed in his actions and inter-relations with others. Thriving on death and blood, seen in the gladiatorial games, he mistakes violence for power. He is willing to cheat, threaten and murder to obtain it. He instigates himself as the protector of Rome, seen in his  speech to the Senate: I am the father of Rome and they are my children. Attempting to appoint the adulation that comes with a virtuous hero upon himself, an unvirtuous tyrant. The greatest hindrance to Commodus is his all consuming jealousy. It motivates corruption, disallowing Commodus the ability to recognise his own character and to also expand on it. Instead he is entangled in a perpetual reminder of what he is not. This is his pestilence. This jealousy is augmented when Maximus still comands adoration even as a gladiator, when it should be directed towards Commodus; the emperor. It is here that Commodus realizes the trickery he has employed to could his absence of virtues, to gain the love of Rome, has not prospered. The antithesis of virtue is denied admiration. In an attempt to demonstrate power; Commodus challenges Maximus in the battle arena; which signifies his desperation. Maximus is a conquering general and a gladiatorial champion, whereas Commodus is a skillfull swordsman, but he is weak due to his cowardess, and they are unequally matched. This encounter could have been a growth point for Commodus, by way of conquering fear; but he utilizes his insidious qualities and inflicts a mortal wound before the battle begins; to give himself an unfair advantage. Victorious he is not, and death awaits Commodus. Commodus could never find success with the detainment of vices. It would go against the definition of the conquering hero. Commodus as a hero would distort the structure of Gladiator. Commodus is the antagonist; the one in which unvirtuous qualities are shown; to enthrall a sense of moral code in the film and to also display the virtues that compile a hero; Maximus. From the moment Commodus murders his father, Aurelius, he is doomed not to discover success, unless he redeems himself from the wrong-doing he has committed. This redemption does not occur, and illustrates that Commodus is prepared to change for the worse. Commodus carries out more treacherous acts; such as ordering the murder of Maximus and his family. It is here in the killing of innocence that Commodus spirals out of control; and becomes the epitome of immorality. Commodus faces great conflict and motivation to change his ways. He does  change, he becomes worse. It is crucial to his role as the antagonist that he does not learn from his mistakes; otherwise; he would shift to being a protagonist. The tragic hero is one who faces much adversity; but after a journey of discovery finds redemption; and usually death. The negative growth of Commodus is essential to the plot line of Gladiator. Commodus offers a comparison by which Maximus can be measured; and the two share a symbiotic relationship in the way they need each other for the personality of the characters to be fully recognised. Commodus remains trapped in a downward spiral of unvirtue; disallowing himself from experiencing redemption; the redemption that would have made him a tragic hero. This entrapment in vice is however crucial to the narrative of Gladiator.

Why Use Social Media as a form of Recruitment?

Why Use Social Media as a form of Recruitment? Working title Social media recruitment: why use it at the Royal Veterinary College? Introduction The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has commissioned me to evaluate social media recruiting strategies and possible future opportunities to ensure they remain competitive in the recruitment market. Within this proposal, I will outline the context of the research which will provide more background information of social media recruitment and the RVC. I will then provide a summary of an initial literature review which will define the focus and scope of the research project about to be undertaken (Gray 2014). An appropriate research approach and the way in which I intend to carry out my research will be detailed along with how I intend to analyse the date obtained. Possible issues and limitations will be discussed and possible solutions to overcome them. I will propose timescales of the project milestones and finally provide a conclusion. Context Established in 1791 and based at two sites in London and Hertfordshire, the Royal Veterinary College is one of 7 veterinary schools in the UK. A key part of their overall strategy is to be the first choice for those seeking to work in the veterinary, biosciences and One Health Higher Education sector (RVC 2015). The Human Resources (HR) strategy is aligned to the overall strategy to support its objectives and, as such, a key part of the HR strategy is the capacity to attract and retain talent at every level of the organisation from the local, national and international markets in which we compete will remain fundamental to our success (RVC 2015). The utilisation of social media to attract talent is an ever-increasingly popular topic within the HR profession so the HR team are keen to explore its value to help achieve this HR objective and to ensure they remain competitive in the recruitment markets. The HR team are also keen to discover if utilising social media for recruitment bring s other cost and administrative efficiency benefits. As a previous member of the HR team at the College who has seen their current online recruitment process grow and develop for the organisations needs, I am interested in discovering if and how it can be further adapted to utilise social media, whether it can provide a competitive edge in the race for talent and whether this would be a valuable use of their resources. I am expecting that the RVC should have at least some element of social media recruitment presence but, given the diverse nature of its employees and their differing backgrounds and professions, whether social media can provide value to all its recruitment campaigns remains to be seen. Literature Review This literature review will guide the development of my research topic. As Gray (2014) states In order to advance our collective knowledge, a researcher has to understand what has gone before. In seeking to do this I have reviewed numerous relevant literature related to the use of social media for recruitment and common themes were noted and formed the basis of my literature review. An important part of any Human Resource Management (HRM) strategy is the effective recruitment of its staff which the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) (2016) state as central and crucial to the successful day-to-day functioning of any organisation. In an ever-increasingly competitive business environment, organisations are taking a more strategic approach to the staffing of their organisations (Taylor 2014). When Tim Berners-Lee created the World Wide Web, it was not long before it added a new dimension and new opportunities in the recruitment field with the advent of online recruitment which first started in the mid-nineties. Commentators were quick to advocate its use due to the perceived efficiency benefits of as opposed to purely paper-based recruitment. Seminal research by Capelli (2001) stated that, while online recruitment was increasing in popularity due to the reduction in recruitment costs and time saved, its successful use was only achieved by those who fundamentally changed their recruitment process by using online media to market the organisation and build relationships with candidates to create talent pools. The advent of social media enabled organisations to take this marketing concept further by enabling organisations to promote its brand leading to more, better candidates by giving insight into recruitment the process and what it is like to work there (People Management 2013). In addition, social media enabled direct communication with target candidates resulting in a higher probability that a vacancy will be brought to the attention of someone who is ideally qualified to fill it (Taylor 2014). Contemporary research by Schmidt and Landers (2016) also suggest that outgoing social media messages can enhance organisational attraction and recruit more and better applicants by sharing corporate values to increase the reputation and visibility of the organisation. These benefits are why 54% of employers are engaging in social m edia for recruitment (CIPD 2013). The outlined suggested benefits are an attractive prospect. However, little research has been undertaken to establish what the internal costs are of maintaining a social media presence i.e. required time spent per day and training staff in the use of social media costs. This valuable information will form part of my initial research methods which will be to establish what, exactly, the RVC would like to gain from utilising social media for recruitment and what the current capabilities of doing so are. An additional, and controversial, use of social media in the recruitment process is using it to screen potential candidates. Contemporary research by Schmidt and Landers (2016) show no link between social media traits of potential candidates and job performance and they recommend that, until more in-depth research is undertaken in this area, social media is better used for recruitment and building a brand than as a selection tool. However, screening candidates in this way is can provide recruiters with a valuable source of information not found using traditional techniques (Davison et al. 2012; Kluemper 2013). Further research in this area by me regarding the potential benefits and risks to recruiters at the RVC of using such an approach to social media will enable me to make a balanced recommendation on whether screening candidates should be undertaken at the RVC. Another consideration when utilising social media for recruitment is the impact it has on equality and diversity (E D). Taylor (2014) and Iddekinge et al. (2013) state that organisations should not solely use social media for recruitment as it is predominately used by women and the younger generations. Rather, it should be used in conjunction with traditional methods. As a higher education establishment with E D considerations high on the agenda, further research and understanding of the RVCs E D commitments and objectives must be taken into account and aligned to before any recommendations are made. With such fast-paced advancements in social media and technology in general, it would be wise to also assess the implications of future developments in social media recruitment to ensure any recommendations provided are future-proofed. One well documented development that promises to have a big impact on social media recruitment is bid data and analytics which Schmidt and Landers (2016) believe will improve the HR discipline by providing it with a wealth of valuable information with which to make decisions. Regarding recruitment, this information seeks to help recruit more suitable candidates. What resources are needed to utilise big data and analytics, and in what capacity it would be suited to the RVC is will form part of my research. Schmidt and Landers (2016) also advocate working with internal IT professionals to help guide and shape the future of human resource management and this relationship, and whether more formal relationships arrangements are required at the RVC, will als o form part of my further research. Methodology I have chosen to conduct this research in a case study format as a case study generates multiple perspectives through multiple data collection methods (Lewis 2003) which I will need to use to ascertain the different perspectives of different people regarding the suitability of using social media recruitment at the RVC and its general use i.e. recruiting managers, HR, recent recruits and other organisations. As Gray (2014) states the integration and contrasting of these different perspectives can build a rich and detailed understanding of the context. The case studys epistemological approach taken will be constructivist since I will be the creator of my own knowledge by discussing and analysing and incorporating peoples different perspectives on social media recruitments suitability at the RVC, rather than discovering it in an objectivist fashion. The question of whether to use Social Media Recruitment at the RVC will heavily depend on the perspectives (data) of RVC staff and similar organisations and I anticipate that the focus and direction of this research will also be led by them. A suitable methodology to use for this case study that will enable this is grounded theory which enable the development of a theory by discovering, developing and provisionally verifying through systematic data collection and analysis of data pertaining to that phenomenon (Strauss and Corbin 1998). Common methods of research used in grounded theory are interviewing and focus groups which will be a valuable way to obtain viewpoints and opinions of my research subjects. Along with the qualitative research methods of interviews and focus groups, surveys to seek opinions would also provide valuable perspectives of social media recruitment and this mixed method of research will provide a richer, contextual understanding of the phenomenon being researched (Hansen et al, 2005) Method I will initially conduct face to face interviews with recruiting managers from each of the differing staff groups within the College and the Operations Manager in HR, as well as conduct a face to face focus between the team of 5 HR Administrators, to ascertain exactly what they are hoping to gain from utilising social media recruitment. This is an important first step in my case study is it will not only enable me to gain a company specific perspective on what is required and feasable but focus the next stage of my research and data collection to ensure it is relevant to their needs. The interviews will be conducted in a semi-structured format which will enable me to understand their experiences, opinions, attitudes, and enable me to probe where required (Gray 2014). They will also enable me to obtain a more well-rounded picture of their requirements, as opposed to other data collection techniques like structured interviews questionnaires which have minimal interaction between the in terviewer and interviewee. A focus group has been chosen for the administrators it will generate group dynamics within a group of differing individuals (Gray 2014) and enable me to understand the degree of consensus (Morgan and Krueger 1993) of what is deemed a valuable use of social media at the administrative level. The good working relationships with HR and recruiting managers already built while working at the RVC will also help facilitate their agreement to being interviewed and their willingness to interact positively and constructively. Analysis of this information as described in the data section of this proposal will guide the construction of a relevant, anonymous questionnaire which will be emailed to all staff recruited in the past year, estimated at 225, in the form of a descriptive survey to ascertain their job seeking behaviors, their opinions of social medias use by employers as a selection tool and their preference for future developments. The survey questionnaire will also enable me to gain an insight into ED considerations. Recent recruits are most valuable as opposed to other people as they have already been recruited with the RVCs objectives in mind so will be most like the future RVC candidates the RVC hopes to attract. A questionnaire is preferred as it will enable me to question many respondents at a low cost and at a time and place that suits them (Gray 2014). In addition, a questionnaire can assure their anonymity, which will help facilitate their honesty and willingness to participate. Finally, I will seek the current stance, future plans and thoughts of other Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the UK of the use of social media recruitment by way of a survey for the HR Operations Managers. This will give me a broader picture of how social media is used for recruitment in the education industry and enable me to make recommendations on whether or not social media recruitment can provide competitive advantage. I will seek as many organisations as possible to provide me with the most accurate picture possible. This will require a questionnaire rather than other methods of research which I will be able to send to all HEIs via email in the UK. The subject area is not particularly contentious so I would not expect anything more than a minimal level of risk in causing harm or damage in the cause of my research. However, informed consent will be obtained prior to any of the three research methods suggested to ensure research participants are provided with sufficient and accessible information about my project so that they can make an informed decision as to whether to become involved, or not, (Crow et al., 2006). Data My initial research of interviews and focus groups with managers and HR will help narrow the focus of my case study by generating common themes and requirements of social media recruitment. To attain these themes, I will use thematic analysis which will help generate descriptive data from the information provided as opposed to similar methods like content analysis which is more data driven. The themes will then direct what questions to include in my questionnaire to recent employees which will be recorded to enable me to focus on the questions asked. While unknown at this point, the questions will be phrased in such a way as to concur, or not, with suggestions and requirements from the interviews and focus groups and to attain additional viewpoints and suggestions from a candidate perspective. Once obtained and transcribed, the information will be analysed for relationships, common themes and additional suggestions to that of the recruiting managers and HR. The types of data yielded will determine the appropriate analysis and statistical tests (Gray 2014). However, whether nominal or ordinal, this categorical data will be put in a descriptive statistical format which will enable analysis of the frequency distribution. The questionnaire for surveyed organisations will be developed and analysed in the same way. All information gathered from my research will be stored securely on my laptop which is password protected. Possible Problems and Limitations While my previously created relationships with staff at the RVC will help encourage availability, access to the Operations Manager and a recruiting manager from each of the staff groups may be problematic due to low availability during the period that I undertake my research. Good forward planning and the fact that the purpose of the case study is to seek new, and more efficient, ways to help them recruit the staff they need will help encourage them to be available. Availability of all of the HR Administrators at the same time for a significant period of time may also be problematic. However, they have a specific time and date every week that they keep clear in their diaries to have team, and other ad-hoc, meetings which will improve the chances of availability. I have the potential to bias the interviews. I can prevent this by ensuring my interview techniques are consistent, with regard to my tone and duration of interview, to all research subjects. Bias may also occur from the interviewees as the less technically savvy may feel obligated to advocate its use for fear of being seen to be not keeping up with technological advances. A broad range of questions highlighting the positive and negative consequences of using social media recruitment will help to reduce this. The questionnaire may yield a low response rate. However, the estimated population of 225 staff recruited in the past year may be high enough to ensure a low response rate still generates enough responses to make analysis of the answers worthwhile. If not, a re-distribution of the survey with an added monetary incentive may increase the response rate. Another possible issue with the survey is that people may act differently in reality to the responses given in the questionnaire. A call for honesty and highlighting the fact that the questionnaire is anonymous may alleviate this. As with the survey for recently employed staff, the survey for HR Operations Managers at other organisations may also yield a low response rate. There are currently 131 HEIs in the UK and a low response rate may not yield enough responses with which to anaylse. In addition, motivation to respond may be low due to their current work obligations and responsibilities taking a higher priority and their reluctance to divulge any information which may provide reduce their own, or provide the RVC with, competitive advantage. To help improve the response rate, I will offer to provide all respondents with a free summary of my own findings of the survey which they may deem valuable for their own recruitment strategy planning. Main Tasks and Timescales I will use a Gantt Chart here with the following timescales: January starting report, start ethics form. February to March literature review. April to May Data collection. June Initial Analysis. July -Draft to Alan. Conclusion While social media recruitment is only starting to be researched in-depth and the real value, or not, and all possible pitfalls may not be immediately apparent, such benefits as highlighted in the literature review can not be ignored and the RVC can not afford to fall behind its competitors who use social media recruitment to help attract the best talent. However, this case study will ascertain the real value and viability of social media recruitment at the RVC, now and in the future, and provide recommendations, or not, of its use. References Morgan and Kryeger 1993 Crow et al., 2006 HEFCE http://www.hefce.ac.uk/workprovide/unicoll/heis/ Holton, J. A. (2009). Qualitative Tussles in Undertaking a Grounded Theory Study The Grounded Theory Review, 8(3), 37-49. Dick, B. (2005). Grounded theory: a thumbnail sketch. [On line] Available at http://www.scu.edu.au/schools/gcm/ar/arp/grounded.html Glaser, B. (1992). Basics of grounded theory analysis. Mill Valley, CA: Sociology Press. Allan, G. (2003). A critique of using grounded theory as a research method. Electronic Journal of Business Research Methods. 2(1). Lewis (2013) Strauss and Corbin 1998 (Hansen et al, 2005)