The Eiffel Tower as a City Landmark Essay

The Eiffel Tower as a City Landmark Essay The Eiffel Tower as a City Landmark Essay Example The Eiffel Tower as a City Landmark Essay Example Being a landscape that reflects social, political, economic and cultural relationships, this topic will be discussed in the context of cultural geography. It will enable the investigation of the changes in perceptions surrounding the design, construction, as well as the continued existence of the tower. This paper will deal with all aspects of this structure and how they reflect the perception of France as a nation and the city of Paris. As a city landmark, the tower has been exaggerated to communicate social messages in the loudest way possible (Riggs 2009, p. 6). THE EIFFEL TOWER. HOW DOES THIS LANDMARK REPRESENT THE FRENCH NATION? In particular, this essay will attempt to explain the true definition of a landmark and the representation a particular landmark (Eiffel Tower) has on a particular nation (France). Using the reference of the Eiffel Tower, I will further attempt to explain the architectural attributes and perception of this landmark by its nation. Further, I will analyze ‘why’ the Eiffel Tower is a representation of France, taking into accounts such aspects as structure, building materials used in relation to the rest of the country and the history and intentions of the building. This essay will be a critical analysis of the perception of the Eiffel Tower and how different groups (locals and visiting tourists) each encounter different experiences of the landmark. Finally, it will analyze whether the Eiffel Tower is truly an expression of France. According to Arnold and Ballantyne, â€Å"We are interested in the ways in which places are perceived and appropriated across intervals of time or culture landscapes. Buildings and urban environments are reconfigured in incommensurable ways by different groups with their own particular identities, concepts and preoccupation† (Arnold Ballantyne 2004, p. 1). The questions will be answered by drawing upon a range of methodologies and philosophies. For many, the essence of France is its capital city and in particular its iconic structure of the Eiffel Tower, thought by many to be a beautiful timeless masterpiece. However, is this the universal perception of the Eiffel Tower or is there a great divide between what the locals of Paris think and the rest of the world looking in through the eyes of a tourist? It is a fundamental question, which I will attempt to examine and analyze. Landmarks As quoted by the Oxford English Dictionary, a landmark is â€Å"An object or feature of a landscape or town, which can be seen easily and be recognized from a distance, especially one that enables someone to establish the location† (Oxford English Dictionary 2013, p. 1). Landmarks are used to express and define a particular era and the surrounding area. It was originally used as a geographical tool to navigate explorers through an area landmark. Nowadays, they have come to mean so much more. Now they not only navigate through a city, but encase a plethora of history, heritage and memories. A survey devised by the Getty Institute (1997) states that landmarks unite young people, families, and communities with a common feeling (The Getty Conservation Institute 1997, p. 1). Landmarks become more distinguishable and substantial, when they have a clear structure, if they are distinctive with the surrounding area as well as whenever they are prominent within a large area. The context, against which a component stands out, should not be restricted to its immediate background. Examples include the steeples of the Los Angeles City Hall and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which are the landmarks distinctive against the backdrop of the entire city. Spatial prominence establishes elements as landmarks in one of two ways: either by enabling the landmark to be noticeable from various view points or by creating an antithesis between proximate elements. An example is a deviation between the exterior surroundings and elevation (Lynch 1960, p. 78). Thus, this essay will focus on the Eiffel Tower. The structure is qualified as a landmark in a number of ways. France has had its important matters commemorated and celebrated here. Though the installation of its lighting system was done in 1900 for the then exposition, the tower got established as broadcasting beacon from 2000, when the millennium celebration has been conducted. Even after this, there was an installation of a new projector, whose two beams of light could go up to 80 kilometers. With the 1999’s unavailing of new light sets, which could glitter as midnight was approaching, the tower gained its intended status as a universally accepted symbolic landmark (Carr 2014, p. 1). The new century saw the landmark being illuminated by different colors and patterns. It has been done to mark a number of past celebrations and anniversaries, which were of great importance to French people. The year 2004 saw the red lights being used in oneness during celebration of Chinese New Year. On the other hand, it was lit in blue in the year 2006 in marking the twentieth anniversary of the Europe’s day. The year 2007, the gold and green colors were used together with rugby posts and ball in celebration the hosting of Rugby World Cup by France. This representation makes the symbolic connotation of the tower obvious to the world Carr 2014, p. 1). In the context of this paper, a landscape encompasses both the physical places as well as their artistic representation. In fact, the places of the statuses, such as that of Eiffel Tower, are never simply seen as a cultural landscape. They have continuously been seen as including the surrounding people and the way in which they interact and interrelate. Today, landscapes represent symbolic systems, which take the shape of the inhabitants’ beliefs as well as the meanings the landscape is attributed to. It means that the way such landscapes are shaped do express the represented social ideologies as is communicated by a given landscape. According to Crowley and Jobling (1996, p. 87), the landscapes, which humans inhabit and thus continuously modify, speak people’s geographical interest making them cultural landscapes. However, landscapes can have different meanings to various people. The perceptions they attract can also change over time. However, the majority of cultural landscapes merely represent people’s values symbolically. In essence, cultural landscapes represent a system, which allows people to communicate, explore, reproduce and experience their social order. The Eiffel Tower replaced Gothic cathedral as the major landmark before the tower’s construction. However, they shared a familial affinity since they had similar construct ideologically. That is, the Eiffel Tower later embodied the ideals of the republicans, which had initially been attributed to the cathedral (Petersen, 2004, p. 469). It was later replaced as the world’s tallest building by Chrysler Building in New York City, which was completed in 1930. Background Information on the Eiffel Tower The Republican France in the early 1880s was dealing with an economic crisis and suffering great political instability. The idea of building the tower was first formed to celebrate the first centenary of the French Revolution by designing a monument to mark this occasion. The World’s Fair inspired the idea to create a monument to boost the economy and celebrate the occasion of the World’s Fair. Edouard Lockroy, the then minister of trade, decided to create a competition which would specify the detailing of the monument (Bolloch 2005, p. 9). Bidding for the project soon began, and over 100 projects were received for Lockroy to choose from (Harris 1976, p. 11). One of the projects submitted was created by Emile Nouguier and Maurice Koechlin, who at the time were senior engineers of Eiffel’s company. Later the project was bought out by Gustav Eiffel. Nouguier and Koechlin’s initial proposal was â€Å"large pylon made up of four latticework beams spread at the base and meeting at the top, held together by metal beams at regular intervals† (Bolloch, 2005, p. 9). This idea was expanded upon by Stephen Sauvestre, who was the architect attached to Eiffel’s firm. After this the planned proposal has been displayed on the Decorative Arts Exhibition. At that time Eiffel himself became actively involved in the project and made some technical changes to the initial proposal. From 1886, the concept, planning and construction of the monument began to quickly form (Bolloch, 2005, p. 9). The monument was constructed on the Left Bank of the Seine river, at the northwestern extreme of the Parc du Champs de Mars, the surface of which was similar to the rest of Paris: â€Å"Grey, plastic clay, about 50 feet deep, resting on a solid foundation of chalk† (Harriss 1976, p. 55). The first part of erecting the tower began with its excavations and masonry foundations, outlining the base of four feet of the tower, each supporting a pillar aligning to the four points of the compass. Once it was completed, it was followed by a construction of diagonal pillars, along with the horizontal beams, assembled from puddled iron, which would together make the lower half of the tower (Bolloch 2005, p. 11). In 1888, the second phase began, which was constructing the monument past the second platform and glass cage machines, designed by Otis Elevator Company were implemented in the tower. The tower was eventually completed by 31st of March, 1889, weighing a total of 7,300 metric tons, and standing at 1069 feet (320.75 meters). It still remains the tallest structure in Paris by a clear definition (Engineering.com Library, 2006, p. 1). The image of the tower is shown on the picture below. Perception and Representation The perception of the tower in the city, its influence and grandeur has evolved from the initial conception to its completion and development. Initially, when the tower was in the concept and assembly stages, many individuals signed a petition to the Minister of Works to oppose it. The most felt petition was written by the ‘Committee of Three Hundred’. This petition stated, â€Å"We, writers, painters, sculptors, architects and passionate devotees of the hitherto untouched beauty of Paris, protest with all our strength, with all our indignation in the name of slighted French taste, against the erection of this†¦useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (History, 2013 p. 1). In fact, even immediately after its completion in the year 1889, the majority of Paris dwellers did not like what they saw. Gazing at its majesty, most Parisians literary moaned because of the hatred they had for â€Å"the huge, shitty eyesore†. They saw it as a metal tower monster with a spoiling effect on the skyline of Paris, which was so precious to them. To the advantage of the opponents was the fact that the tower was not meant to be permanent, it was only to take 20 years after its use for the 1889 International Exhibition in Paris. That is, Gustave Eiffel gave in to the rules of the 1889 World’s Fair. The rules required that all structures, which were built for the World’s Fair, were to be constructed in a way that they could be easily demolished after a period of 20 years. Thus, the Parisian had known that its demolition was obvious since the land was leased for 20 years. Moreover, based on this fact, Eiffel had used a metric shit ton from iron, which is said to be the cheapest. It is what he used to come up with the world’s tallest structure at the time (Symon 2012, p. 1). Irrespective of the fact that the landmark was initially to be brought down, many people, both citizens and non is Sully Prudhomme, who admitted that the tower was â€Å"Judged and condemned only by default† (Bolloch, 2005, p. 20). Eiffel himself declared, â€Å"I believe it is fair to say we are showing the world that France continues to be the leader of progress and that she is realizing a project which has often been tried or dreamed of† (Bergdoll 2003, p. 12). Though Eiffel faced much criticisms and judgments during his construction as many local Parisians believed the tower to be more monstrosity, grotesque, the perception has changed (Harris, 1976, p. 76). Over the years, the tower has become a symbol of Paris and the French nation and now it is one of the most visited landmarks in the world. The Eiffel Tower represents a passage and evolution from the renaissance era through to the industrialized future. Constructed to celebrate the commemoration of the French Revolution, it has adapted over the years to represent the nation, its people and culture of a particular era (Sutcliffe 1993, p. 106). The tower later became common with expositions, slowly winning support of its detractors. However, the critics revived their call for its demolition towards the end of the tower’s twentieth year, in the beginning of 1909. Though it was destined for destruction, a number of reasons enabled a change in the perception of Parisians towards the tower leading to its survival (Symon 2012, p. 1). First was the invention that the tower would be used to support the projected radio communication system. Eiffel projected that in future radio was destined to be the major device for communication. It was an indication of the need for a high place that would help in sending the long range messages. Though hated, being the world’s tallest tower of the time, it could not be denied that Eiffel Tower was going to grant the world that needed spot. Eiffel went ahead and erected the radio transmitter right at the top of the tower. The most significant was the fact that he willingly gave it out to the French Ministry of War to be used as the communication base. It enabled the ministry to pass messages across all the channels that were broadcasting in English at the time. The Parisians realized its usefulness during the war with Italy and Germany, when radio was widely used as a tool of transmitting instant message concerning the war (Symon 2012, p. 1). Thus it is its usefulness as the radio messaging system that seemed to have saved the tower. It was even more evidenced, when the tower was used as the main transmission point by German radio communications. The station installed its advance on the northern part of Paris. Though the call for its demolition was revived in 1967 by the Mayor of Montreal, Eiffel Tower has remained to date. Since then it has been used by Hollywood producers to a wide extent. In fact, almost all the scenes of France-based movies are making use of the tower as their background since it forms a good cue to their audience. One is looking at most of the Paris-based movies; another would literally see that the city of Paris is simply the Eiffel Tower and a number of cafà ©s (Symon 2012, p. 1). Later, a number of metrological-related experiments were carried out on it. For instance, Eiffel studied various effects of wind as well as air resistance. It has grown to be known as aerodynamics, a technology which has been very instrumental to the military and aviation departments. It has been equally embraced in the rocket technologies. It saw the tower being spared after the expiry of its permit as the military could not do without the use of its antenna. A good example can be its utilization in capturing of Mata Hari, who was the infamous spy during the First World War. The tower intercepted communications of the enemies’ radio besides being used to relay zeppelin alerts. It was also useful in the dispatch of reinforcements of troops during emergencies. It is this role that made the tower gain so much significance to the people of France erasing the initial thought of having it demolished. It was known to be the backbone of French telegraphy (Kingston Technical Software 2012, p. 1). The importance of the tower in nationhood later increased as the tower was integrated into the International Time Service making the people of France feel important at the international level. It has also been the case both with the French radio, which has utilized it since 1918, as well as French television, which has, on the other hand, utilized it since 1957 (Kingston Technical Software 2012, p. 1). Since then most tourists have visited the city of Paris to take food in one of the restaurants built in the tower to enable them have a clear view of the city. Eiffel Tower as Representation of the French Nation Equally, landscapes do give people a sense of loyalties and places. Thus they affect national identities, which are very deliberately constructed and dependant on these landscapes and not naturally dictated. It is the landscape’s influence on the people’s heritage, which is constructed socially and which make their history. It is our heritage that enables us to connect to our past easily. Both the sense of nationality and identity obtain the construction through communities which are imagined. Imagined to represent the belief by people, which is never possible for a person or the entire group, whether a nation or a race, which people have been aligning themselves to it. However, irrespective of this fact, people of the same nationality, race or any other grouping always feel that they share a kindred bond (Jackson 2010, p. 470). The importance of Eiffel Tower as a heritage of determining French identity is explained by the fact that people mostly treasure what sets them apart. French people have always felt that the magnificent structure sets them apart from the rest of the world since it is among the most visited landscapes across the world (Crowley Jobling 1996, p. 86). Equally, the very landscapes are also impacted on by our identity and heritage. It is always visible through the way in which the construction of the said landscapes had been done. Apart from its impacts on the landscape, identity can also be embodied within the landscape physically. In fact, it is the portrayal by French people of their heritage and identity within Eiffel as a cultural landscape, which has seen a high number of tourists visiting it. It has coincided with the role of the landscape in how France, as a space, has undergone commodification. Though the tower had been constructed as a way of spectacularising Paris, it has steadily gained the fame to a point that it embodies the image of France as a nation worldwide. It draws millions of visitors from across the world by its physical domination of the Parisian skyline. Just like any other renowned monuments in Paris, the tower has gained more value as well as meaning associated with it. The tower has produced and still holds social meaning while providing identity to both Parisians and France as a nation. Though national identities are normally a result of constructions made deliberately, it had not been true in the case of Eiffel Tower (Barthes 2013, p. 1) The tower can also be taken as a representation of the nation (France) taking off to modernity. Because of its complexity in design, the tower has been seen from across the world as a symbol that France is modernized. It is said that even the part of Parisians who have been opposed to the structure were simply shocked by its bold modernity. In fact, since its construction Paris has been referred to as an elegant and modern city. Since then, those visiting Paris for whichever reason have shown a great desire to see the tower to seal their visit to this city. Since then it has been known to be one of the major world icons providing endless fascination to the world and the clichà © of choice for its representation of Paris. Apart from the fact that the structure is fascinating, many of its visitors are those who would like to get a good view of Paris. The tower gives away the visitors of Paris at a glance. It has since been described as Paris or French ‘Iron Lady’. The str ucture has been literary having pride of the place whenever any report is being written on Paris. It has revolutionized photography in the country. Today, those coming up with films in France have a magnificent backdrop. It is evident in the film La Fin du Monde, produced by Abel Gance in 1931 (Barthes 2013, p. 2). Through its structure, the tower has all that would be required to have a glance at Paris or even France. The structure emerged as an unordinary monument with boasting attractions and restaurants. The way in which Eiffel Tower is constructed makes it an imposing feature. It is raised to 303 metres, which is the measurement that excludes its antennae. Its weight is over ten thousand tonnes, while it also has eighteen thousand individual sections made of metal, the assemblage of which took 2.5 million rivets. Those who aspire to access its first two levels, have to use lifts or climb all the 704 steps. Its ascent gives people the unique view of the capital of France, making people identify the tower with France (Billington 1985, p. 92). It is also identified with Paris since it gives tourists a view of Paris as the whole, as well as the view of other symbolic monuments right from its second level. Parisian, and therefore French major attractions, such as Notre-Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre and the Cahteau de Versailles can be viewed from this structure. It gives the visitors the real taste of France’s major attractions. Moreover, the second level enables visitors to have a broad range of the taste, cultural and visual experiences. Such restaurants as Jules Verne, located on the tower’s level two, as well as the vertiginous champagne bar located at the tower’s very top part, enable visitors to have a taste of French people’s culture and lifestyle (Billington 1985, p. 92). The tower in itself is a theatre of outstanding events and spectacular lighting made possible through the Champ de Mars and its Parisian park which is equally very magnificent. Some of the events, which have since been identified with France, include the July 14th fireworks on the Bastille Day; Blue Tower, which came at the time when France offered the president for the EU; the 2000 firework display, as well as the multi-coloured display done in marking the country’s 120th anniversary. Equally, most of the country’s artists, writers, painters, as well as singers have testified of having drawn their inspiration from the tower. The influence saw Robert Delaunay, one of the renowned cubist painters, dedicating most of his works to Eiffel Tower. Mistinguett, who was the cabaret artist, also expressed great amazement at the continued existence of the tower during the La Belle Epoque. The tower’s influence on the singers can be seen from the works of Jacques Dutronc. H e had a feeling that the tower has had cold feet. It greatly impacted on the kind of songs he composed (Beca 2006, p. 5). Just like in the case with other landmarks in other countries around the world, France has been identified with Eiffel Tower in various dimensions. Though the design of the tower was widely criticized by Paris writers and artists, its beauty, wizard engineering, and originality won the nationwide affection and praise. Of particular national importance about its design was the fact that it exalted French national flag singling out as the only flag with a pole measuring up to 300 metres. The country also made history as the host of the world’s tallest structure for a 30-year period. The structure has also made Paris and its environs unfold in the form of a giant map. The perception that the tower is the great scenery is universal. It can be seen based on its ability to draw tourists who are attracted to see the global famous symbol of Paris in their millions (Dunn, 2013, p. 1). In fact, it attracts such a great number of visitors, much more than any other world’s paid mon ument; at least seven million every year. Equally, the country boasts of a singly tourist structure giving employment to over 500 people. The site has also attracted various high profile stunts, scientific experiments and ceremonial events. For instance, the country boasts of the invention of cosmic rays, which was first done on the tower by Theodor Wulf, a German Physicist. Equally, it is the step taken by France that seems to have triggered other country to come up with the common similar structures that have now been erected in a number of world’s major cities (Barthes 2013, p. 1). The tower has also brought the country together at the consulate of Cape Town. It was during a season described to be the South African’s in France. The season saw Eiffel Tower being lit up with the South African national flag’s colours for a number of days. The illumination formed an attractive and powerful way to begin the season of South Africa in France. It was done for an event attended by over eight hundred South Africans. French citizens came together to enjoy events performed by South African’s best artists, academicians, and sportsmen, too (French Consulate of Cape Town, 2013, p. 1). This way France has been able to strengthen its relations with other nations as the people of different nations are brought together by the urge to see the world’s once tallest structure and interact with one another. Such international activities have also given French artists and sportsmen the opportunity, which they can use to learn from other nations as they work together. This way, the country has greatly developed its creative industry and thus promoted its culture, heritage and arts. It leads to the creation of more jobs, opening up of new markets, as well as building sustainable livelihoods among French citizens serving in the creative industries (Barthes 2013, p. 1). Harris and Ezra (2000, p. 170) refer to the tower as the universally symbolizing Paris and France. According to their work, the tower has greatly impacted on the France’s contemporary culture. It is its exposition that was used as a mark of the country’s revolution. Different from other Paris-based commemorative monuments, what the tower symbolizes is not presented outwardly. It simply represents that the country unifies as one nation after its revolution. Though many monuments have intentionally been used in cultivating national identity since the dawn of 19th century, it was never intentional in the case of the Eiffel Tower. Its major aim was to give the exposition a monumental entrance and not to give France a representation as a unified whole as has been the case. However, it is a clear show of the kind of advancement the country has made in its industrialization and design (Hebert 1998, p. 27). The Intention of the Tower Equally, the very intention of the structure also leaves no doubt about its representation of France as a nation. One of the reasons why the tower has been constructed was to mark 100 years since France was revolutionized. It means that the tower brought the nation together in this celebration. Equally, it has given the world another way of identifying France as a nation (Delaney Kaspin 2011, p. 256). It was seen immediately after it has been constructed since it was used for the 1889’s world’s exposition, which was one of the reasons why it was built. In fact, the period of Revolution, from 1789-1799, has been dominating in the country’s history. It was a period of political upheaval leading in to the French monarchy being abolished. It was then replaced with an ideal democratic republic, which has remained radical since then. It saw France enduring a continued political unrest culminated by the first and the second World Wars. From this period, France joined the major leading nations in the European Union. Over time, the construction of country’s identity has been involving the complex process, which includes assigning some level of significance to its people’s cultural practices, events, historical places and people. When put together, everyone is able to have informed opinion of the country. Landscapes of this importance can form a symbolic r epresentation site (Jackson 2010, p. 470) Representation of Transition to Modernity World’s fairs represented spectacular articulations of the modern way of life. As the centre of modernity, the city’s (Paris) major concern was to impress the world. In fact, the 1889 exposition itself was an extension of the tussle that London and Paris had been having. They were both vying to be positioned first in Europe. London had benefited from hosting the industrial World’s Fair that preceded the Fair of 1889. Its main attraction was the vast Crystal Palace constructed by Joseph Paxton. It had showcased the ways, in which iron could be used innovatively. The spaces within the city had been commodified to have their nation represented in the ways which enable citizens to give an expression of their power (Crowley Jobling 1996, p. 86). However, the exposition of 1889 went beyond being a London-Paris affair. Rather, it brought the whole continent together in celebrating French Revolution. The construction of the tower was a form of landscape manipulation aimed at making the exposition a great success. It was also aimed at helping to avoid unnecessary unrest. The tower was therefore a symbol of the country’s commitment to the growing economy and overall development, while easing the political temperature on the continent. Though a number of monarchies like Holland, Belgium and Britain refused to officially participate in the event, the aim was achieved (Prost 2002, p. 317). Significance of the exhibition saw Eduoard Lockro, who had newly been appointed to head the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and also head the team responsible for the building of the tower. He aspired to have a 1000-foot tower constructed in Paris. Besides the need of winning its associated engineering race, he wanted the structure to feature a symbol, which would represent the faith that had been responsible for shaping the Parisians and French identities. Making efforts to deliberately shape people’s identity and representation is a shift to the establishment of new modern form of memory. That is the era, in which nations create their identity and are not waiting them to occur naturally (Prost 2002, p. 317). Equally, Eiffel, who constructed the tower, had gained a status as the premier constructor of France following his building of a number of bridges among other metal structures. His thirty years’ experience worked well with the fact that the design he came up with was in line with the required criteria, which led to the acceptance of proposal. His presentation saw that the country was committed to inventions and technological advancement. Equally, the construction of the tower was done in two years compared to the Washington Monument, which had taken the country 36 years to construct (Taylor-Battly 2013, p. 3). The structure’s three-dimensional nature and its modern engineering feat was clearly a symbol of modern Paris, as it was intended to be by the government. The work was meant to give a picture of French industrial strength through attesting to the kind of progress the country had made in as far as its metal structures’ arts is concerned. It was also done in celebration of the progress the country had achieved in its civil engineering in the said century. It also aimed at attracting the highest number of visitors to the country ever to enable it to be a sign of peace as the continent and the world commemorate the 1889 centenary. With the reasoning behind its construction as the real construction being done in a period that was characterized by political upheavals is an indication that even in such early times people could embody such significance and meaning (Lebovics 2004, p. 1). The tower was a presentation of the kind of advancements that France had made as a society in the early years. However, this concept can be bizarre due to the fact that the inspiration of its construction took a similar form to that of the biblical tower, which was built on the heaven. It may raise a question of how something should qualify to be modern. However, in this context, modernity will simply represent a given mental attitude. It occurred during industrialization characterized by crave for and domination over the nature and existence of order. Put together with the progress notion, it was accurately the intention behind the construction of the tower. The biblical ties of the tower signified that the country had not forgotten religious morality despite the progress people achieved. It saw the citizens of France acquiring and accepting new perception of themselves and their group as French citizens (Harris Ezra 2000, p. 170). Europe of the 19th century had its modernity-centred architectural advancements, especially functional aspects and design of structures. The leadership of Eiffel Tower in this modern domain cannot be questioned. Its design made it very unique besides being taller than any other world structures of the time. Together with its role in the creation of a commodifiable landscape, the tower hosted restaurants with the best food and kind of service at the time (Prost 2002, p. 317). Instead of lasting just for a short time as was intended, Eiffel Tower has attracted such attention to become the soul of Paris, also known as ‘the City of Light’. It has dominated Paris skyline and the Seine. It is not a mere achievement, especially noting that the tower was once seen as absolutely useless and dangerous building. It has attracted much attention from all over the world to become a heroic world symbol. Equally, irrespective of the fact that there are a number of other more advanced architectural projects in Paris and across the world, the tower is still receiving the highest number of visitors than all other monuments in Paris. It has an unprecedented presence in tourists’ maps and guidebooks. Besides selling of cultural food in the restaurants, souvenir shops located right at the towers’ pillar entrances of the first two floors do offer several cultural items, which represent Paris as well as the tower as their theme. Some of the bestselling items are tower key rings and headscarves. Finally, though it has not retained its status as the world’s tallest building, there has been a shift of priority of its visitors with most people visiting it now focusing on the values and meanings that the structure has come to embody. That is, its significance as a universally accepted symbol in a cultural landscape. Thus, other more sophisticated architectural designs have not overshadowed it and the structure’s future as a tourists’ destination is still promising.

Apartment Building Structures in nineteenth and twentieth centuries Research Paper

Apartment Building Structures in nineteenth and twentieth centuries - Research Paper Example Looking at different examples shows the portrayal of various concepts and how apartment buildings provided a different approach to urban development. The first architectural concept which was created for those looking at newer structures for apartment buildings was from Ludwig Mies der Rohe, which created the Lake Shore Drive Apartments in Chicago, Illinois (see Appendix A). The residence addresses were considered luxury apartments at the time. The concept was to create high – rises that were available for living instead of smaller structures with housing. The main concept that was used by Mies was to have structural clarity with the buildings by creating repetitive frameworks with the windows and the contemporary columns at the bottom of the structure. Open windows and frames through the high – rise were the main ideology. The approach was to save on space for practical development in urban spaces while making each space feel like a home instead of an apartment with th e use of the open windows and beams that created the open framework in each room. The production combined with the Bauhaus movement from Germany and World War II styles. This was based on practicality and repetition through the square framework. This was combined with the high – end technology by creating the high rise for modernism which could be used with the structure1. A second structure that was able to redefine the concepts of the nineteenth and twentieth century was from the Majestic Apartments, built in New York from 1930 – 31 by Jacques Delamarre (see Appendix B). This structure took a similar form to the Chicago apartments with the high rise and practicality of each of the levels. The urban planning was based on offering high – rises instead of expanding with land, specifically to fit a higher population into the area. This was combined with the idea of art deco for a different design. The outer area is made of light brown brick and limestone. The uniq ue pattern is furthered with glazed corners for the top of the apartment to create a combination of artistic looks with the practical options of the apartment high – rises. The changes which occurred with urban development then combined the concept of practical and comfortable living with saving development space. This was furthered with the art deco style to create urban planning as an accent with the arts that were developed2. The importance of this building for the twentieth century was based on combining traditional art approaches with the changes in urban development. The infrastructure looked at the practicality o the buildings first. However, the art deco added into the landscape of the city for development that was based on creating a culture within the city through the artwork that was developed with the architectural pieces. The third apartment building structure which created a similar response to the time frame was the Auguste perret Apartments in Franklin, Paris, completed in 1902 (see Appendix C). The concept of practicality with the high – rise is one which is seen in these particular buildings, similar to the others. The urban planning was then based on developing more space for more individuals. The concept is furthered with the infrastructure that is developed with ornamented areas, balconies in the front and open areas with the windows that are displayed. This particular ideology was one which linked to the culture, specifically in creating the understanding of

EATING AND WEIGHT DISORDERS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

EATING AND WEIGHT DISORDERS - Essay Example Obesity, a medical problem in its own right, can result from bingeing and poor food choices. Bulimics binge and then purge (get rid of food by vomiting, taking laxatives, or exercising excessively). Anorexics starve themselves, sometimes to the point of death. A disturbance in a person’s thoughts, here one actually fears gaining weight. This would mean an avoidance of regular eating just to remain slim, even sometimes when the subject is so thin that the health is at stake. The subject takes up self-starvation methods. 90 percent of most cases are reported in females, although there are cases of this nature in males yet most of them go unnoticed. It is most common among whites or in societies where there is a high demand on thin ladies or were the only qualification of beauty is seen as being thin. Also in careers that requires for one to be thin, dancing, fashion industry, theater , show business. Patients with anorexia could be spotted trying to hide or cover themselves by wearing baggy and heavy clothes although not so easily, however a well trained psychiatrist or doctor would straightforwardly diagnose the illness. The America Psychiatric Association classified it as a distinct disorder in 1980, Bulimia nervosa could result from patients with anorexia, in this case it does not matter if you are overweight or underweight, patients result in bingeing (large intake of low calorie foods within a short time interval). It is not a known cause of weight loss but it does result in gastrointestinal

Nursing Care Plan and Specimens Essay Example for Free

Nursing Care Plan and Specimens Essay Quality is a broad term that encompasses various aspects of nursing care (Montolvo, 2007). The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators [NDNQI] is the only national nursing database that provides quarterly and annual reporting of structure, process, and outcome indicators to evaluate nursing care at the unit level (Montolvo, 2007). Nursings foundational principles and guidelines identify that as a profession, nursing has a responsibility to measure, evaluate, and improve practice (Montolvo, 2007). The purpose of this paper is to analyze the ‘mislabeled specimen’ indicator for an inpatient rehab unit and devise an action plan based on best practices to decrease the incidence of mislabeled specimens. Analysis of the data According to Dock, (2005) accurate specimen identification is a challenge in all hospitals and medical facilities. Ensuring that specimens are correctly identified at the point of collection is essential for accurate diagnostic information (Dock, 2005). A mislabeled specimen can lead to devastating consequences for a patient (Dock, 2005). Specimen misidentification can be serious, resulting in misdiagnosis and mistreatment (Dock, 2005). For the second quarter of FY09, the rehab unit met their target of zero mislabeled specimens. The third quarter yielded two actual mislabeled specimens with a variance of two. The fourth quarter actual was one with a variance of one. The first quarter FY10 showed an actual of one and variance of one. For the FY09 the rehab had a total of four mislabeled specimens. This indicator was chosen because of the magnitude of this medical error. Nurses, administrators and laboratory personnel must collaborate and create ways to decrease the mislabeling of spec imens. Nursing plan Nursing interventions to decrease the number of mislabeled specimens and improve actual indicator scores are: 1) Ensuring proper identification of patient 2) The use of electronic technology and 3) Bedside labeling. Each of these interventions will positively impact patient outcomes and reduce errors. According to The Joint Commission [TJC], proper patient identification is best practice for decreasing mislabeled specimens (The Joint Commission as cited by Sims, 2010). National Patient Safety Goal [NPSG], 01.01.01 states that healthcare providers should use at least two identifiers to identify patients. For example, the patient’s full name and date of birth is used to properly identify a patient (The Joint Commission, 2014). According to Kim et al., (2013), developing a standardized specimen handling system has the potential to reduce errors. Figure 1. Steps to properly identifying a patient for specimen collection. Figure 1. Essential specimen handling steps. Blue items are physician-specific responsibilities; pink items are nursing staff-specific responsibilities. Adapted from â€Å"Standardized Patient Identification and Specimen Labeling: A Retrospective Analysis on Improving Patient Safety,† by Kim JK; Dotson B; Thomas S; Nelson KC; Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2013 Jan; 68 (1): 53-6. The strongest intervention to reduce labeling errors is the addition of barcode technology (Brown, Smith Sherfy, 2011). The use of automated patient identification and specimen collection techniques can be an additional safety net for routines that are vulnerable to error, especially when coupled with strong systems designs (Brown et al., 2011). Brown et al (2011), found that the clinical applications of electronic and information technology support can assist in the identification, control, and reduction of error rates throughout the process. According to the World Health Organization [WHO] healthcare providers should encourage the labeling containers used for blood and other specimens in the presence of the patient (World Health Organization, 2007). This would suggest labeling specimens at the patient’s bedside or before leaving the room. Nurses should never label specimens before collection as this could lead to serious errors. Summary In summary, NDNQI indicators serve as a schoolmaster that holds nursing accountable to practice. An analysis of ‘mislabeled specimens’, found that an inpatient unit had a total of four incidents for FY09. While this does not seem like a great deal of errors, any one error could have detrimental consequences. The plan of action based on best practices is to properly identify the patient, using electronic technology, and labeling specimens at the bedside. References Brown, J.E., Smith, N., Sherfy, B.R., (2011). Decreasing mislabeled laboratory specimens using barcode technology and bedside printers. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, (26)1, 13-21. Retrieved from http://sfxhosted.exlibrisgroup.com/waldenu?genre=articleissn=10573631title=Journal%20of%20Nursing%20Care%20Qualityvolume=26issue=1date=201101 Dock, B. (2005). Improving the accuracy of specimen labeling. Clinical Laboratory Science, 18(4), 210-2. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/204803914?accountid=14872 Kim J.K., Dotson B; Thomas S; Nelson KC; Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2013 Jan; 68 (1): 53-6. Retrieved from ent%20identification%20and%20specimen%20labeling%3A%20A%20retrospective%20analysis%20on%20improving%20patient%20safety.spage=53sid=EBSCO:rzhpid= Montalvo, I. (2007). The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI). Online Journal Of Issues In Nursing, 12(3). Retrieved from http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/ehost/detail/detail?vid=50sid=909dc60d-9c0d-474c-a02e-2e8f9df097e1%40sessionmgr4003hid=4104bdata Sims, M. (2010). The Joint Commission clarifies key compliance issues. MLO: Medical Laboratory Observer, 42(4), 72. Retrieved from http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=54sid=909dc60d-9c0d-474c-a02e-2e8f9df097e1%40sessionmgr4003hid=4104 The Joint Commission, (2014). National patient safety goals. Retrieved from http://www.jointcommission.org/assets/1/6/2014_HAP_NPSG_E.pdf World Health Organization. (2007). Patient safety solutions. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/patientsafety/solutions/patientsafety/PS-Solution2.pdf

Abortion - The Wrong Choice Essay -- The Right to Life, Pro-Life Essays

Positive . How often do people hear that word? "Your blood type is a positive. "Are you positive?" "Your pregnancy test is positive." Thousands of women hear the word "positive" every year and, for some, the moment is unwanted. Abortion often seems like the only way out of a positive pregnancy test, partially because abortion is not completely understood. This is because many pro-choice advocates use "sugar coated" words to explain abortion. This fact was made known to the public in 2004 when, while considering a law banning partial-birth abortions, Judge Richard C. Casey had the following conversation (exerted from World magazine) with an anonymous abortion-industry witness. "Do you use simple English words so that they know what they're doing and authorizing?" When the witness answered yes, he probed further. "Do you discuss killing the fetus?" "I tell them that when I cut the umbilical cord of the fetus, the fetus exsanguinates." "Exsanguinwhat?" the judge replied. "In layman's terms, it would be drained of blood." "Do you tell them that?" "No." Many people regard abortion as the only way out of an unplanned pregnancy and that is where they are misled. While women retain the legal right to decide on abortion, they're under the influence of an allusion that abortion is the only option and a safe and has little or no side effects. The Planned Parenthood website, often visited by women considering abortion, says that abortion is one of the safest medical procedures performed today. According to Planned Parenthood, when abortion is performed properly, abortion has only mild side effects including dizziness, strong cramps, vomiting, temporary a domino pain, diarrhea, temporary mild fever or paints. Planned P... ... pregnancy, and certainly not the safest. Abortion poses risks to women, including desk, losses of Philip the two bear children, and possibly breast cancer. Aborting the fetus causes the fetus pain and takes away its life, something no human to do to another. Planned Parenthood and the National Abortion Federation?s desire to make abortion appealing to all women in all situations, has led them to compromise the law, to the point of not reporting statuary rate. Abortion is not the best answer to an unplanned pregnancy. It is understood that not all women can care for their unborn children, but there are hundreds of families across the country who would be glad to adopt the unborn babies. The word ?positive? does not have to indicate an abortion. Abortion is not the safest or only action, and women throughout the United States should be informed of that. And

Psychological Effects of Alcoholism Essay

Alcohol is a well known substance that has been present ever since. It provides a variety of functions for different people from the earliest times until today. In the past, alcoholic beverages were served not only as thirst quencher; it also played a significant role in the aspect of religion (Watson). Alcohol connotes pleasure and sociability through the enhancement of the quality of life. Most alcoholic beverages are well represented in wine, beer, and spirits. They have been accounted for numerous positive and negative effects upon consumption (Watson). While alcohol has been proven to be beneficial if taken moderately, its misuse may lead to alcoholism. Alcoholism is one of the prevailing social problems of today. Alcoholism is noted to be a chronic disease wherein the body becomes dependent on alcohol. It is characterized with alcohol obsession, and the person with alcoholism is unable to control the amount of alcohol being taken. Alcoholism can cause serious problems and may affect a person’s relationship, health, finances, and work (â€Å"Alcoholism†). The physical effects of alcoholism are evidently well recorded. It is a general knowledge that the abuse of alcohol may lead to serious problems, most especially the abrupt deterioration of human health and its detrimental impact on the internal organs. Thus, most people often associate the impact of alcoholism on the physical health. However, what is less considered are its psychological effects that are much more damaging and equally painful to the physical effects that the alcoholic person is aware of (Briggs). It was found out that alcohol consumption and mental health are closely affiliated in numerous ways. Based from the summary presented by the institute of alcohol studies, â€Å"mental health problems can result [in] excessive drinking, but that problem drinking can lead to mental health problems† (Tolevanen et al. qtd. in Cattan and Tilford 142). Aside from this, it was suggested that external factors are major contributors to mental health and alcohol problems. These external factors include genes, social and family environment, psychological and culture influence, the perception about the impact of alcohol, and the level of acceptance for alcohol consumption (Tolevanen et al. td. in Cattan and Tilford 142) Moreover, the influence of the expectancies of alcohol greatly affects how people drink. Take for example the young and middle-aged adults. Since the said group of people has a positive perception on the effects of alcohol consumption, they tend to consume more alcohol. It was concluded that people who use alcohol consumption as a coping strategy perceive the effects of alcohol to be positive, and that alcohol reduces the repercussions of factors that induce stress (Satre and Knight qtd. n Cattan and Tilford 142). Hence, although there were evidences that alcohol consumption may have positive psychological effects, it is still apparent that the negative impact of alcohol on human psychology overshadows its positive effects. Depression, Anxiety, and Suicide Since alcoholic beverages are depressants, by the time they begin circulating within an individual’s system, they decrease the activity carried out by the nervous system to the brain (Naq). Thus, it was noted that depression may be the cause or aftermath of alcoholism. Some studies suggest that the effects of alcohol have two phases, the initial of which is that it produces a feeling of euphoria which is then generated to depression by the time the alcohol level in the blood has gone down (Institute of Alcohol Studies [IAS] 6). It was also stated that, when an individual consumes an amount of alcohol that is more than the body’s capacity, it would result in stress. In the spur of the moment, a series of psychological manifestations of stress can be observed through anxiety. Certain conditions, such as restlessness, nightmares, and overwhelming fear, are some of the anxieties felt or experienced by an alcoholic (Naq). Dependence in alcohol also results in heightened emotions. Most alcoholics are in a high risk of depression and anxiety, creating a strong link between suicide and alcoholism (IAS 6). Aggression and Violence Many researchers have proven the link between alcoholism and aggression. It was believed that the excessive consumption of alcohol does not only promote aggressive behaviors, but it may also lead to victimization. Alcohol disrupts the normal functions of the brain. Thus, alcohol encourages aggressive behavior and violence. Violence is within the category of aggression, which is characterized by behaviors that are often threatening and hostile. The percentages of alcohol related violence are alerting, and the figures are still raised in the upper limits (U. S. Department of Health and Human Services). According to Bancroft, the consumption of alcohol allows offenders to act on what they desire (47). Because of this, offenders become more insulting and intimidating. Most often than not, perpetrators deny the activity and use alcohol as an excuse. Courts sometimes condone perpetrators who blame the committed crime to drinking problems (Bancroft 48). Obsession Alcoholics are identified as intense and obsessed people (Zimberg 4). Once a person becomes dependent to alcohol, obsession with drinking is the likely result. For an alcoholic, there is no difference between a large and small amount of alcohol. Because of alcohol dependence, a person loses interest with other activities except to get the next drink (Naq). Memory loss  An alcoholic is more likely to experience periods where one cannot remember a thing, otherwise known as ‘blackouts’. It is important to take into consideration that alcohol abuse may result in memory loss, which in turn, may be psychologically damaging and self destructive at great levels (Briggs). Apart from this, the dependence in alcohol has a great association with brain damage and cognitive impairment which may lead to an advance stage known as alcoholic dementia. When such advance case of memory loss is combined with amnesia, the intellectual function of the brain is then lost (IAS 16). Socio-Psychological Effects of Alcoholism The socio-psychological effects of alcoholism may be short term or long term. One of the most prominent short term socio psychological effects of alcoholism is ‘disinhibition’. This is well manifested when an individual lacks self regulation and control which leads to numerous anti-social behaviors. Furthermore, alcohol has the capability to repress a person’s ability to respond to emotions and decrease inhibitions which, in the end, may cause the alcoholic to exhibit risky behaviors (Curtin et al. qtd. in â€Å"Short-term and Longer-term Effects†). Disinhibition also may result in activities that greatly affect the society such as crime and violence. For instance, in Australia, where alcohol is deeply embedded in the culture, out of 70% of crimes committed, 41% were done under the influence of alcohol (National Health and Medical Research qtd. in â€Å"Short-term and Longer-term Effects†). Long term socio-psychological impact of alcoholism is apparent in a family. Alcoholism is recognized as a â€Å"family disease. † In a family, the alcoholic may be a father, mother, teenager, and other close relative. Alcohol dependence of one member of the family may lead to family disruption and may put the whole family at risk that may last for a very long time. In a recent study done by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services and SAMHSA’s (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration) National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, the numbers of American adults who have been vulnerable to alcoholism reached up to seventy six million (Parsons). Most family problems are blamed to alcoholism (Parsons). Family members take on different characteristics as a way of adapting to the situation. In the case of the family’s child or children, various attitudes may be noticed: (1) Family hero is a way by which a child acts on the responsibilities, exhibiting obsessive perfectionism and doing things that are â€Å"too good to be true;† (2) Scapegoat, wherein misbehavior and delinquency is a form of escape to the situation; (3) Lost child is characterized with passiveness and isolation from others to withdraw from the situation; and (4) Mascot, by making fun of the situation through comic relief (Donatelle and Davis qtd. n â€Å"Short-term and Longer-term Effects†). In the case of the spouse of the alcoholic, the spouse has to take on the status of both parents. This may cause the spouse to develop feelings of hatred, self-pity, and anti-social behavior. The spouse is also likely to become extremely exhausted, leading to physical and mental illness. Moreover, the non-alcoholic parent has the tendency to neglect the children (Berger qtd. in Parsons). The effects of alcoholism are not limited to the physical aspect. It is evident that it has adverse psychological effects that do not only affect the alcoholic individual, but extend to the society where the alcoholic belongs. Furthermore, based from the results that were framed from the study, it is suggested that comprehensive analysis on the psychological effect of alcoholism according to gender should be done so as to give further justification on the subject.

Essay on Hubris in Oedipus the King by Sophocles - 766 Words

There are many historic and fictional figures where hubris led to their downfall. Hubris is defined as being arrogant and having pride for your self. There are many people that are led to their downfall because of hubris. People that are hubris are blinded and can’t see what they did wrong. Those who contain hubris only think about themselves and can’t see the big picture. They think the world revolves around them and think they are the best. They are always going to be successful but suddenly will drop down. They will do anything to make themselves look good. There are many people that contain hubris. Oedipus is a fictional character in the novel Oedipus the King by Sophocles. The novel focuses on hubris. Oedipus is a man that is†¦show more content†¦He was blinded because he did not think he will get caught and will be the best player in MLB history. Dr. Frank Tassone, Bernard Madoff,Alex Rodriguez and Oedipus were all filled with hubris which led to their do wnfalls. Dr. Frank Tassone the superintendent of Roslyn was filled with hubris and is blind for money. Dr.Tassone was the school superintendent of Roslyn for 11 years. He was loved and people cared for him. Dr.Tassone grew up in Bronx and was the son of educators. He was married but his wife died. He taught English in Westchester County. Later Dr.Tassone was brought to Roslyn in 1992.â€Å"He was a progressive leader who spoke of social justice, made condoms available in the high school and build a community service program founded on the concept that the privileged class should give something back. He was a respected figure with an ample education pedigree, the intellectual heft of a Dickens scholar and born politician’s touch at making people feel welcome.† (O’Donnell) People considered him to be like a president. The town of Roslyn saw him as a hero. Dr.Tassone has established many classes, and made condoms available. He was also a very well and respected spe aker, which made people love him.This quote relates to Oedipus because he was seen as the best hero Thebes has seen. Oedipus has done many great things for the city of Thebes such as kill the Sphinx that was harassing the people and saved the city from falling apart.The people treated him as theShow MoreRelatedTheme Of Irony In Oedipus The King913 Words   |  4 Pagesaudience. In Sophocles’, Oedipus the King, Oedipus’ power and knowledge are unparalleled by man as he is the only man able to solve the Riddle of the Sphinx and save Thebes. Yet after receiving an unpleasant reading from the Oracle at Delphi during a quest to find his true self, Oedipus directly challenges Apollo, and his hubris ends up preventing him from finding out who he really is; The murderer of his father, King Laius, and husband of his own mother, Jocasta. Throughout the play, Sophocles uses ironyRead MoreDeconstructing Tragedy And The Definition Of The Protagonist’S1173 Words   |  5 P agesDefinition of the Protagonist’s Innocence In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, Oedipus meets the Aristotelian definition of a tragic hero as divine fate and tragic flaws lead to his downfall. Oedipus’s tragic flaws like hubris, curiosity, and anger, contribute to his unfortunate fate. The components of a perfect tragedy as defined in Aristotle’s Poetics are at the center of Oedipus Rex. The play contains the elements of a perfect tragedy such as â€Å"imitation †¦ purificationRead MoreThe Tragic Downfall Of Oedipus The King By Sophocles924 Words   |  4 Pageshave flaws that lead to a tragic downfall. One of these tragic flaws is hubris, which is defined as â€Å"exaggerated pride or self-confidence† (Merriam-Webster). This trait is most commonly found in characters who come to power and allow themselves to be consumed by their newfound hierarchy. The play Oedipus the King by Sophocles embodies the trait and displays it in different ways throughout the story. Oedipus is a victim of hubris as seen w hen he disregards the prophecy given to him, challenges a groupRead MoreAnalysis Of Oedipus The King917 Words   |  4 Pagesused excessively. Oedipus the King was written by Sophocles thousands of years ago as a cautionary tale about hubris. As a king, Oedipus rules over the city of Thebes with an arrogant attitude and believes that he can defy the gods. Through the events of the novella, Oedipus lost everything after uncovering that he killed his father and had children with his mother. Conversely the real downfall of Oedipus came from his pride and failure to handle the situation carefully. Oedipus fills the archetypeRead MoreOedipus the King1125 Words   |  5 PagesOedipus the King by Sophocles is about Oedipus, a man doomed by his fate. Like most tragedies, #8220;Oedipus the King#8221; contains a tragic hero, a heroic figure unable to escape his/her own doom. This tragic hero usually has a hamartia or a tragic flaw which causes his/hers#8217; downfall. The tragic flaw tha t Sophocles gives Oedipus is hubris (exaggerated pride or self-confidence), which is what caused Oedipus to walk right into the fate he sought to escape. Pride like that of Oedipus hadRead MoreOedipus Downfall Essay example774 Words   |  4 PagesPrompt: In a well-developed essay, consider whether hubris, fate or both are the use of Oedipus’ downfall. Use evidence from the text to support your support. Hubris is defined as excessive pride or self-confidence, while fate is defined as the supposed force, principle, or power that predetermines events. Ancient Greeks believed in Hubris, or pride. Pride may have been seen as good or bad. Many people that exhibit pride may come off as being proud of their achievements or lives; however, prideRead MoreOedipus Rex Vs. Antigone1417 Words   |  6 PagesComparative Essay 11-20-01 Oedipus Rex Antigone It is only natural that an author use similar vessels of literature, such as figurative language, literary devices, and elements in his/her work. It is even more apparent between works that are connected by character, time, and theme. Sophocles did this when he wrote Oedipus Rex and Antigone. When comparing the two pieces, it becomes evident that very similar vessels connected these very different plays. Sophocles uses a specific type of figurativeRead MoreCompare Odysseus and Oedipus Essay1739 Words   |  7 PagesOdysseus and Oedipus There are many legendary epic stories have been passed on from generation to generation in the Greek culture. Even though each story has different outcomes, every epic character has certain features in common. Odysseus in The Odyssesy and Oedipus in Oedipus the King are great examples of epic heroes with a variety of similarities. Odysseus and Oedipus are similar in which they both god-like men who are considered heroes because of their cautious ways and relentless tenacityRead MoreJocasta as a Tragic Hero Essay1222 Words   |  5 Pagesgood. They are neither villain nor saint because they have flaws. Several elememts are nevcesary to have a tragic hero, they are the tragic flaw, the reversal, recognition, and hubris. These generally make up the story of the tragic hero, and in the case of Jocasta, the wife and mother of Oedipus in Sophocles’ Oedipus the King, she posses all three. Yet she is not truly considered a â€Å"tragic hero,† but a tragic character by many. However seeing as it is the character of Jocasta that sets the story inRead MoreOedipus : The King Of Thebes And Tragic Hero Essay728 Words   |  3 PagesOedipus: The King of Thebes and Tragic Hero Ancient Greek Literature encompasses an assortment of poetry and drama to include the great masterpieces of tragedy. In Classic Literature, tragedies were commonly known for their elaboration of a protagonist fitting the classification of a tragic hero. This type of a tragic hero often collectively described as a character of noble birth, facing an adversity of some nature and a fate of great suffering. The characteristics of what encompassed a tragic hero