Corporate Tax Policy between USA and Ireland Article

Corporate Tax Policy between USA and Ireland - Article Example The policies also vary from country to country, as they are formed to suite the existing environment. Therefore, this manuscript will compare the tax policies of USA and Ireland using the opinions of various scholars. In the article by Sinn, the author suggests that corporate tax policy in Ireland is more effective in creating jobs and tax revenue than United States. He mentions Ireland as one of the European nations that have improved their corporate tax collection through alterations in the Irish tax Code. The author further explains the different techniques applied by most European countries in corporate tax collection to generate revenue and create more jobs. For instance, the use of proportional taxes called ‘flat taxes’ are utilized to attract foreign investors. In addition, the earnings retained in the corporate sector are not taxed while those on distributions are. The article continues to applaud the corporate tax policy system of Ireland as a source of tax reve nue with a potential of creating numerous job opportunities than the US. In other words, Sinn maintains that with increased foreign investment because of friendly taxation policies, revenue is increased which in turn generates jobs (Steinmo, 1989). The author also proposes two defensive mechanisms that can help in tax collection including the corporate tax especially in European countries. For instance, Sinn talks about tax harmonization such as that of indirect taxes to the import country and de-taxation of the income earned through corporate profits. This, he argues will boost the revenue collection in Ireland, which is transformed into job opportunities across the country. It is also significant to note the observation by the author concerning tax harmonization in the corporate world and other sectors of the economy in return for an increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Sven Steinmo, on the other hand, explains the advancement of taxation policy especially in developed countr ies such as the United States and those from Europe. The author continues to explain the development of the theory of historical institutionalism in relation to the taxation policy. This is in the form of the connection of taxation policy with ideas, policy outcomes and interests. Sven proceeds to analyze the history of current taxation techniques. In this analysis, he explains the reason of how the issue of ‘good’ tax policy arose because of capitalism. In other words, the Sven reveals that many nations discovered several areas of generating revenue through utilization of fresh ideas. As a result, the government jumped in the advancement of the economy because of the new revenue resources such as corporate organizations and other sectors. The writer explains that this was not possible during the old days hence such a move attracted many policy makers and other stakeholders. Sven further analyses the politics involved in the tax policy system of the United States especi ally during the 1980s. This article puts emphasis on the Tax Reform Act that swept America in 1986 (TRA ’86). The author describes how the influence of this historic Act under the presidency of Ronald Reagan influenced other states around the world in the implantation of their tax reforms. Such tax reforms led to improved corporate tax policy systems in Europe especially in Ireland. This helped generate revenue and create job opportunities for their citizens. The author further points that, the integration of corporate taxes, and progressive income had several influences on the proceeding taxation developments. This led to the transformation of many nations into modern states because of increased

Jean Watson's Theory of Caring Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Jean Watson's Theory of Caring - Essay Example The ultimate aim of this context is to examine Jean Watson’s theory of caring and its implications for both patients and nurses. This paper begins by outlining the overview of the theory before looking at how she brought out the idea of caring moment and how it can apply to daily lives of people (Potter & Perry, 1999). Watson’s theory of human caring also called theory of transpersonal caring or the caring model was established in 1979. The theory has undergone evolution for several years, but its root principal remains outstanding. The theory stresses on the concept of humanistic issue of nursing in conjunction to scientific knowledge. She modeled the theory in a way that it clearly brings out the implication and focus to nursing as a different health line of work. She believed that caring is a backing and support of the identity of nurses (Delaune, 2002). She added on that the identity of medicine is that of caring, since nurses deal with patients and medicines; the same should portray their identity. Florence Nightingale who stated that, â€Å"It is the surgeon who saves the life of an individual and it is the nurse who helps the life of this person,† heavily supported Watson’s implication (Reed, 2006). The theory of human caring implies that the role of nurses is to develo p a caring association with patients through treating them as holistic being, which means, body, mind and spirit. The nurses are also supposed to express categorical acceptance and care for patients with a positive concern. They are also supposed to foster health through wisdom and involvement. Watson defined caring moment as the uninterrupted time that a nurse spends with a patient where they can share a story, advice, a joke, laugh together and at least make the patient feel healed. It is the session where the nurse and the patient make contact through nurse entering the patient’s room and making him

Contemporary issues in business (Primark) Essay

Contemporary issues in business (Primark) - Essay Example Based on the success rate of the company, it has become apparent that more stores are needed to be added to the chain for improving its value. The company caters to the customers belonging from diverse age groups (Primark Stores Limited, 2013). It targets those consumers who are fashion conscious and want proper value in return for their money. The company caters to the market by way of fulfilment of needs of the people by supplying both menswear and ladies-wear. In addition, it also aims to meet the requirement of the market by way of supplying other products that range from accessories & hosiery, children’s wear and footwear among others. The company is said to attain a sales target of ?3.5billion in the year 2012 which is quite impressive (Northern and Shell Media Publications, 2013). The company has a very effective supply chain that brings together different manufacturing units in India, Turkey, and Bangladesh, China and other countries, having a number of retail outlets in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and in other parts of Europe (The Times Newspaper Limited and  ©MBA Publishing Ltd, 2010; Dobson, 2004). In relation to the ethical and corporate social responsibility, the company acts in a much diversified manner. It focuses upon delivering quality products at cheap prices and at the same time retaining the customers by way of creating value for the goods which are manufactured. Identification of the CSR responsibilities of Primark is considered to be the main theme of the paper. Additionally, the paper also aims to highlight various reasons for which the company focuses upon developing and third world countries in relation to sourcing of its products. A Snapshot of Primark Store Source: (The Times Newspaper Limited and  ©MBA Publishing Ltd, 2010) 2.0 Reasons for Sourcing From Developing Countries The primary reason for sourcing from developing countries is to source the products in an efficient manner. Moreover, the company in order to improve the manufacturing process the company opted for developing countries. Another reason was to utilise the local fabrics for producing the products. The other reason for sourcing was to create a strong focus on the current product trends (Choi, 2012). 2.1 Growth Rate It would enable to provide high opportunity of growth to the developing nations. It would allow the company to achieve the high rates of growth because it will get to expand its business channels. Primark’s business expansion comes from fulfilling the needs of the customers along with continuing to expand its markets in the selected regions. The company is able to implement very effective marketing strategies as it is primarily laying its focus upon the developing countries. These factors can prove to be concurrent in relation to the aspects related to growth (Grose, 2011).Therefore, the company planned to source its products from developing countries to attain high rate of growth through sourcing the products from developing nations (Grose, 2011). 2.2 Competitive Advantage This would lead to growth of an ideal company

Human computer interaction Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Human computer interaction - Assignment Example This made me to access outdated and irrelevant source of ideas that lowered my knowledge and competence levels. Equally, there were cases in which hackers and introduction of malware made accessing the sites impossible hence completely blocking my access to the sites. The major contributing factors to the problems were unprofessional management of the sites plus poor site designs. The site hosts assumed that the sites operated perfectly despite the poor maintenance approaches provided. Progress is achievable through improved maintenance and constant updating of the sites ensuring stable site access throughout the year. Future designs of these sites need to factor in issues of proper site maintenance with regular upgrades to avoid inconvenience to all the users. Question 2 HCL is supposed to offer quick solutions in an effective and comprehensive way without compromising the quality of products and services in question. The use of mobile technology to get solutions for common problems is one of the great samples. Many present day scanners use heuristic signatures for virus and malware detection in an efficient and faster means. This is sustainable model for handling the problems with a properly designed tool and framework without compromising of the status of data under threat. ... Therefore, it offers a sustainable and manageable solution to lives and property. The essence of Berkun apply to HCL since the algorithms in HCL are quite compressive and user friendly that they are able to offer solutions to most common problems in technology use and academic endeavours of people presently. In gaming and social media application of this technology has enriched and fastened the use of this services.HCL applies the search of task through search trees accomplishing it effectively .The amount of information and games in the internet is quite high therefore it offers efficiency due to its selectiveness and specialization. Instead of giving all the possible solution branches, it provides the branch most likely possible to the necessary outcomes in relation to other branches and options. From experiences in using this technology its specific in selection of information and materials at the points of need. Question 3 Connection with technology challenges the status quo thro ugh offering various opportunities and possibilities to human connection rather than the physical communication. The examples and real applications presented by Sherry Turckle represent an illustration of what is going on in the world of technology today. The society expects much from technology in relation to what we receive and expect from humans. It has provided an opportunity and illusion of companionship without friendship hence no cost and incurred within the companionship model provided by technology. Parents and the children fail to provide one another with companionship and attention as witnessed in cases where parents get busy with emailing and texting to colleagues during meals instead of

Cutting Edge Issues in Service Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Cutting Edge Issues in Service - Assignment Example Through the above activities the company tends to effectively communicate with their consumers in terms of offers and opportunities available (Perrys-a, 2012; Brink and Berndt, 2009, p.36-39). It is found from the above discussion that Perrys depends largely on the internet to help market its products and services to a larger consumer base in the United Kingdom market. Internet has emerged as one of the growing mediums for helping in the sale of automobile products to a larger consumer space in reflecting a rise of around 11 percent in automobile sales during 2010 as against 2009. On the contrary the sales in units through other mediums failed to reflect any such rise. With the help of the internet the automobile dealers can effectively communicate the different offerings and other value additions rendered in the automobiles to the consumers in an enhanced fashion. Along with internet the telephone communication also appears to have rendered high amount of effectiveness in the dealer ship functions related to sales of new and used cars to the consumers. In total the internet and telephone communication media has helped to increase the sales of automobiles by around 9 percent during the 2009 to 2010 period. Thus the automobile dealers tend to enhance their relationship with the consumers in an effective fashion with the help of internet and telecommunication media (Mintel Group Limited; Plunkett, 2006). Again the use of internet as a communication tool used by car dealerships helps in retaining a large pool of customers.

Romeo and Juliet and Capulet Essay Example for Free

Romeo and Juliet and Capulet Essay Soon several member of both houses jump into the fight as well as citizens of Verona. Capulet calls for his sword. Then Montague tells his wife to let him go so he can attack Capulet. The fight is then broken up by the Prince stating that if the Capulets and Montagues get into a fight again, those responsible will be put to death. Everyone departs the scene save for Montague, Lady Montague, and Benvolio. Monntague asks who started the fight and Benvolio blames Tybalt. Then they speak about Montagues son Romeo who is currently sulking. Benvolio says he will find out what is bothering Romeo who appears in the scene. Benvolio then moves to speak with Romeo. Benvolio learns that Romeo is saddened over the rejection of Rosaline. Benvolio tells Romeo the best way to get over a woman is to find another one. Romeo disagrees and states that he will never love another. Benvolio promises he can make it happen Glossary 1. importune beg persistently and urgently BENVOLIO â€Å"Have you importuned him by any means? † 2. transgression in making lovers suffer so ROMEO â€Å"Why, such is loves transgression. † 3. â€Å"her store† Her store of wealth which consists of her beauty. She ill leave no beauty behind her in her offspring. ROMEO â€Å"That, when she dies, with beauty dies her store† Background Character I am the assistance. Sampson and Gregory, servants of the house of Capulet, go out looking for trouble. .  . .  Sampson and Gregory almost pick a fight with Abraham and Balthasar, servants of the house of Montague. .  . .  Seeing a Capulet kinsman, Sampson and Gregory start to fight with Abraham and Balthasar. Benvolio tries to stop the fight, but Tybalt enters and attacks Benvolio. The citizens of Verona attack both the Capulets and Montagues. Capulet and Montague try to join the fight, but are restrained by their wives.   . .  Prince Escalus stops the riot, threatens everyone with death, and takes Capulet with him, leaving Benvolio alone with Montague and Lady Montague. Lady Montague asks where Romeo is, and Benvolio answers that he was up before dawn, wandering in the woods. The Montagues say that Romeo is afflicted with strange sorrows, and Benvolio offers to find out whats wrong with him. .  . .  Seeing Romeo coming, Montague and Lady Montague leave Benvolio alone to speak with their son. Benvolio soon discovers that Romeos problem is that he loves a woman who doesnt return his love. Benvolio tries to get Romeo to say who it is he loves, but Romeo wont. Benvolio also tries to get Romeo to solve his problem by looking for another woman, but Romeo seems determined to love and suffer. Act one, Scene two Questions 1. Why does Capulet think it will be easy for Montague and him to keep the peace? -Because they would both not want the penalty of death. 2. What do Romeo and Benvolio decide to do -Go to the party. Notes It takes place in a street. Capulet and Paris enter speaking about Pariss desire to marry Capulets daughter Juliet. Capulet says that Paris may marry Juliet but he must first win her heart. He then invites Paris to a dinner party he is throwing that night. At the end of the conversation Capulet hands his servant a piece of paper with names on it and tasks the man to find them and invite them to his party that night. The servant stands alone on the street and states he does not know how to read. The servant asks Benvolio if he will read the list for him. Benvolio after a bit of teasing reads the list. It is a list full of names to be invited to Capulets party including Rosaline. Happy for their help the servant invites Benvolio and Romeo to the party as long as they are not Montagues. Benvolio points out that Rosaline will be there as well as several other beautiful women. Romeo agrees to go the party. Glossary 1. †bound† bound over to keep the peace CAPULET â€Å"But Montague is bound as well as I,† 2. The servant’s confusion is deliberately contrived by Shakespears:thus, SERVANT â€Å"shoemaker †:last, â€Å"tailor †:yard, â€Å"fisher †:nets, â€Å"painter †:pencil 3. †splendor of mine own† the splendid beauty of my own beloved RPMEO â€Å"I’ll go along, no such sight to be shown, But no rejoice in splendor of mine† Background Character I can see Paris asks Capulet for Juliets hand in marriage. Capulet thinks shes too young, but tells Paris to woo her, and invites him to a feast that night. Capulet sends the servant out to invite other guests to the feast. .  . .  Benvolio is still trying to talk Romeo into considering other ladies when they are interrupted by the Capulet servant, who asks Romeo to read something for him. It is a list of guests at Capulets feast that night. Thus Romeo discovers that Rosaline, his beloved, will be at the feast. Benvolio challenges Romeo to go to the feast and compare Rosaline with other beauties. Romeo says he will go, but only to rejoice that Rosaline is most beautiful of all. Act one, Scene Three Questions 1. How old is Juliet? * 13 going on 14 2. Following Juliet’s answer, what does Lady Capulet then tell Juliet? * She should try and like Paris after she meets him. Note It takes place in a room in the Capulet house. Lady Capulet asking for her daughter. Lady Capulet asks Juliet what she thinks about marriage. Juliet claims it is something she dreams of. Then Lady Capulet lets Juliet know that Paris desires to marry her. A servant informs Lady Capulet that guest have begun to arrive. Nurse and Juliet talk a bit and then exit the scene. Glossary 1. â€Å"wormblood† a plant with a bitter juice to make the child stop drinking mother’s milk NURSE â€Å"For i had then laid wormblood to my dug† 2. â€Å"Were not i thine only nurse† but since she is, to say so would be to prise herself NUSE â€Å"An honor? Were not i thine only nurse, Id say thou hadst sucked wisdom rom thy teat† 3. â€Å"But no fly† I will not go farther than your approve. JULIET â€Å"But no more deep will i endart mine eye than your consent gives strength to make it fly† Background Character Lady Capulet wants to have a serious conversation with Juliet, but the Nurse interrupts with a long reminiscence about Juliets weaning and what Juliet said about falling on her back. Lady Capulet tells Juliet that Paris wants to marry her, and urges her to look him over and see that he is the husband for her. Servants come to call everyone to the feast. Act one, Scene four Questions 1. What does Mercutio say about dreams? * They are nothing but fantasies of the brain. 2. What is Romeo’s mood at the end of this scene? * He is amused Note It takes place in a street. Mercutio, Benvolio and Romeo are wearing masks and are traveling with several other maskers and torchbearers. They speak amongst each other believing that not only will their masks keep them from being dedected as Montagues, but they also vow to stay for just one dance. Because Romeo is still pining for Rosaline, Mercutio teases him with the story of Queen Mab. Glossary 1. â€Å"cupid† a guest disguised as cupid as a spokesman to make their speech of apology BENVOLIO â€Å"We’ll have no cupid hoodwinked with a scarf† 2. â€Å"the game done† this is the best part of the proceedings, so i am giving up before worse comes. ROMEO â€Å"the game was ne’er so fair, and i am done† 3. â€Å"this wind you talk of† probably with the implication that ercutio is a windbag The wind you talk to blows us from ourselves Background Character Mercutio tries to persuade Romeo to dance at Capulets feast, but Romeo insists that he is too sadly love-lorn to do anything but hold a torch. Then Romeo says that its not wise to go to the feast at all, because of a dream he had. .  . .  Mercutio mocks Romeos belief in his dream by going on and on about Queen Mab, but Romeo is sure that some terrible fate awaits him. Nevertheless, he goes into the feast with his friends. Act one, Scene five Questions 1. What does Romeo think of Juliet the first time he sees her? * He thinks that she is the most beautiful thing that he has ever seen. 2. Explain what the conversation is about between Romeo and Juliet. * Romeo and Juliet are talking about how Juliet is so pureand like a saint and Romeo is a sinner. Note It takes place in a hall in Capulets House. It begins with a conversation between two servants. As they speak Capulet enters with Juliet and others of his house. Capulet addresses the guests and tells them to have a good time. Capulet converses with a cousin and during this time Romeo sees Juliet. He asks a servant who she is. The servant tells him he doesnt know. Romeo then luanches into a poetic description of Juliets beauty. Tybalt overhears this speech and recognizes Romeo as a Montague and moves to attack him. Tybalt is stopped by Capulet who asks him why he is upset. Tybalt tells him that he knows Romeo is in the house. Capulet tells Tybalt not to attack Romeo and after a brief argument Tybalt agrees but is angry about. Meanwhile Romeo has started to romance Juliet but then learns she is a Capulet and after a brief word with Benvolio everyone but Juliet. The Nurse and Juliet have a conversation and Juliet learns that Romeo is a Montague. Glossary 1. trencher† wooden platter 1stSERVINGMANâ€Å"He shift a trencher? He scrape a trencher! † 2. â€Å"set cock-a-hoop†Ã‚   start a riot CAPULET â€Å"You will set cock-a-hoop† 3. â€Å"pilgrim†Ã‚   Romeo was probably dressed as a pilgrim JULIET â€Å"Ay, pilgrim, lips that they must use in prayer† Background Character At Capulets house, Romeo and his friends enter as preparations are being made for the dancing. The musicians are tuning up, and the servants are hurrying to clear away the remains of the feast. .  . .  Capulet enters, greets the masked strangers, and invites them to dance. Romeo sees Juliet and says to himself that this is the first time hes seen true beauty. Tybalt recognizes Romeo and sends for his sword, but Capulet orders Tybalt to do nothing. Saying that hell make Romeo pay, Tybalt leaves. .  . .  Romeo holds Juliets hand, and begs a kiss, which she gives him. They kiss again, and then both are called away. As everyone is leaving, they each learn the name of the other, and they each exclaim upon the fate that has made each fall in love with his/her enemy. Act two, Scene one Questions 1. What does Mercutio say about â€Å"blind love†? * One loves with the heart, not the eyes. 2. Why does Romeo leave his friend? * he ditches his friends and hides out in the orchard behind the Capulet house Note Act II opens with a prologue that does two things. First it points out that Romeo and Juliets love will be hard because their families are enemies. Second it pokes fun at Romeo for so quickly falling in love with Juliet and completely getting over Rosaline. Scene 1 takes place in a lane by the wall of Caputlets orchard. Romeo jumps over the wall. Benvolio and Mercutio at first try to get Romeo to rejoin them. However, Benvolio knows that Romeo likes solitude and convinces Mercutio to leave him be. Glossary 1. (Line 6, Mercutio)   conjure:   call a spirit by magic 2. (Line 12, Mercutio)   purblind:   very blind . (Line 13, Mercutio)   Abraham Cupid:   Shakespeare may have meant Adam Cupid, an archer in an old ballad Background character On his way home from Capulets feast, Romeo turns back and jumps the wall of Capulets garden. Benvolio calls for Romeo and Mercutio bawdily conjures Romeo, but he will not appear, and his friends depart. Act two, Scene two Questions 1. When Juliet appears on her balcony, what does Romeo compare her to? * The sun 2. Juliet is going to send someone to Romeo on the following day for what purpose? * To arrange the marriage. Note Scene 2 takes place in Capulets Orchard. Romeo stating that his friends jest at him for something they dont understand. Suddenly Juliet appears in the window above. Romeo begins speaking about how beautiful she is. Then Juliet, not knowing Romeo is present, begins mourning over the fact that Romeo is a Montague and she is a Capulet. After listening Romeo reveals his presence and tells her that he loves her. During their expression of love for one another, Juliet is called by her nurse. After a brief moment with her Nurse, Juliet comes back and she and Romeo agree to marry. Juliet tells Romeo she will send him a message so that he can inform her of the wedding plans. Day begins to break over the orchard. Glossary 1. (Line 4, Romeo)   envious moon:   Diana, goddess of chastity 2. (Line 5, Romeo)   be not her maid:   hoping Juliet is unlike the virginal Diana 3. (Line 8, Romeo)   vestal:   virginal Background character In Capulets garden Romeo sees Juliet come to her window. He is entranced by her beauty and listens as she tells the night that she loves Romeo and wishes that he had another name. Romeo surprises her by offering to take another name for her love. At first, Juliet worries for Romeos safety and then she worries that he may be a deceiver, but he wins her over with passionate vows of love. They pledge their love to one another and then Juliet is called away by the Nurse. .  . .  Answering the call of the Nurse, Juliet goes into the house, then comes right back out and tells Romeo that the next day she will send a messenger to find out when and where she is to meet and marry him. Juliet is again called back into the house, and Romeo starts to leave, but Juliet again comes back out, to set a time that her messenger should go to Romeo. Romeo tells her that the messenger should come at nine in the morning. They say a long goodbye, and after Juliet is gone, Romeo says that he will go to the cell of Friar Laurence to get his help. Act two, Scene three Questions 1. What has Friar Laurence been out gathering in his basket? * Flowers. 2. Friar Laurence agrees to perform the marriage ceremony for Romeo and Juliet for what reason? * He thinks it will bring the Capulets ;amp; Montagues together. Note Scene 3 takes place in Friar Laurences cell. The scene begins with Friar Laurence with a basket in hand and speaking of the qualities of various flowers and herbs. Romeo tells the friar that he wants to marry Juliet. The fryer is surprised at how quickly Romeo has gone from loving Rosaline to loving Juliet. Eventually the Fryer agrees to marry Romeo and Juliet because he thinks it will cause the two families to come closer together. Glossary 1. Line 54: intercession- a petition 2. Line 54: steads- helps, is of use to 3. Line 81: chidst- rebuked Background character At dawn Friar Laurence gathers herbs and comments on how in both plants and people everything has some good, and every good can be abused and turned to evil. .  . .  Romeo appears and tells Friar Laurence that he has fallen in love with Juliet and wants him to marry them. The Friar criticizes Romeo for jumping so quickly from love of Rosaline to love of Juliet, but grees to perform the ceremony because he thinks that the marriage may end the hatred between the Capulets and Montagues. Act two, Scene four Questions 1. According to Mercutio, what kind of man is Tybalt? * Fiery,bull-headed amp; very prejudiced. 2. How is Juliet to arrange to meet Romeo? * She sends the nurse to him with a message. Note Scene 4 takes place i n a Street. The scene begins with Benvolio and Mercution wondering where Romeo is. During this conversation it is learned that Tybalt has challenged Romeo to a duel. Benvolio and Mercutio discuss the duel and Tybalts talent as a duelist. Romeo and Mercutio tease each other. Mercutio teases the Nurse for a bit but leaves with Benvolio after Romeo asks them too. Alone with the nurse he tells her to tell Juliet to meet him at the Fryers at two that afternoon. He also instructs the nurse to bring a rope ladder so that he can visit Juliet later that night after they have been married. Glossary 1. Line 25: first and second cause- cause according to the code of dueling that would oblige one to seek satisfaction of ones honor 2. Line 26: passado! †¦punto reversion! †¦hay! forward thrust, backhanded stroke, thrust through 3. Lines 28-29: phantasimes- fantastically dressed or mannered Background character Mercutio wonders where Romeo is. Benvolio says that Tybalt has sent a challenge to Romeo, and Mercutio scornfully describes Tybalt as an conceited killer. .  . .  Mercutio kids Romeo about love, and Romeo joins in the bawdy repartee. .  . .  Mercutio bawdily mocks the Nurse, who tells Romeo that she wants a word in private with him. .  . .  The Nurse complains about Mercutio, receives from Romeo the information about time and place of the wedding, then chatters on about how sweet Juliet is. Act two, Scene five Questions . The nurse is supposed to be gone only a half hour, but she is actually gone for how long? * Hour amp; a half. 2. How is the nurse behaving that is frustrating to Juliet? * She wont tell Juliet what Romeo said ;amp; is dragging the moment out. Note Scene 5 takes place in Capulets Orchard. The scene begins with Juliet worrying about how the day is passing without word from Rom eo. Her Nurse begins to tease Juliet. For a while this teasing goes on until Juliet is very close to hysterics. Finally the Nurse relents and tells her that she is to marry Romeo at the church later that afternoon. The Nurse leaves to get the rope ladder that Romeo requested. Glossary 1. Line 7: Love- a reference to Venus, whose chariot was drawn by swift-winged doves 2. Line 51: Beshrew- to curse Background character Juliet impatiently awaits the return of the Nurse with news from Romeo. .  . .  The Nurse teases Juliet by finding all kinds of ways to not deliver the joyful news, but finally tells her that she is to go Friar Laurences cell to be married to Romeo. Act two, Scene six Questions 1. What does Friar Laurence mean when he says, â€Å"Therefore, love moderately; long love doth so†? Love should be a warming glow within the heart, not an uncontrollable fire that eventually destroys everything in its path. 2. What follows after Romeo, Juliet, and Friar Laurence exit from the stage? * They get married Note Scene 6 takes place in Friar Laurences cell. Friar Laurence and Romeo come with the fryer telling Romeo marrying so quickly is a mistake. Romeo casts this advice aside. Juliet then after a brief conversation. the fryer marry the two young lovers. Glossary 1. Line 74: ratcatcher- one whose business it is to catch rats; another allusion to Tybalt as king of cats 2. Line 113: effeminate- weak, like a woman; unmanly, enervated, self-indulged, delicate, over-refined 3. Line 189: amerce- to punish by fines; to exact something from Background character Just before the wedding, Friar Laurence advises Romeo to love moderately. .  . .  Romeo and Juliet tell each other how much they love one another, and Friar Laurence leads them off to be married. Act three, Scene one Questions 1. Why won’t Romeo fight Tybalt? * Because he says, he has a reason to love Tybalt now because they are family because of his marriage to Juliet 2. What is Romeo’s punishment for killing Tybalt? Romeos punishment, is that he is banished from the city of Verona Note Scene 1 takes place in a public place. Mercutio, Benvolio enter with a page and several servants. Benvolio is complaining about the heat of the day and Mercutio teases him for it. As they talk Tybalt followed by a couple of servants enters the scene. He asks Benvolio and Mercutio if they have seen Ro meo. As Benvolio and Mercutio tease Tybalt, Tybalt challenges Romeo to a duel, but Rome refuses because Tybalt is now his family Mercutio takes Romeos refusal as a sign of cowardice and challenges Tybalt in Romeos stead. Tybalt and Mercutio start to fight. Romeo tries to stop the fight, then as he steps between the two Tybalt stabs Mercutio under Romeos arm dealing him a mortal blow and then runs away. Romeo attempts to comfort Mercutio who dispatches his page to find a doctor. Romeo tries to encourage Mercutio but it is obvious he will die. Eventually Benvolio helps Mercution off the street and the two exit the scene. Romeo is by himself for a short time while he speaks about being angry with Tybalt, then Benvolio enters the scene again to let Romeo know Mercutio is dead. Tybalt comes back into the scene and Romeo challenges him to a fight. The two fight and Romeo kills Tybalt. Benvolio tells Romeo to run away as several citizens have seen the fight and are upset. A short time later the Prince, both Lord Montague and Lord Capulet, and several citizens come. Benvolio tells the prince what happens. The Prince, instead of sentencing Romeo to death, instead decided to banish him and fine both families. Glossary 1. Line 74: ratcatcher- one whose business it is to catch rats; another allusion to Tybalt as king of cats 2. Line 113: effeminate- weak, like a woman; unmanly, enervated, self-indulged, delicate, over-refined 3. Line 189: amerce- to punish by fines; to exact something from Background character On the streets of Verona Benvolio tries to persuade Mercutio that its best to stay out of the way of the Capulets and a quarrel, but Mercutio jokingly claims that Benvolio is as much of a quarreler as anyone. .  . .  Tybalt, looking for Romeo, is challenged to a fight by Mercutio, but then Romeo appears. .  . .  Tybalt challenges Romeo to fight. Romeo refuses, but Mercutio steps forward and fights Tybalt. As Romeo is trying to stop the fight, Tybalt gives Mercutio a wound, then runs away. Mercutio dies. Romeo is ashamed of himself for letting Mercutio do the fighting, and when Tybalt returns, Romeo kills him. Benvolio has a hard time getting the dazed Romeo to leave the scene. .  . .  Benvolio tells the Prince what happened. Lady Capulet wants Romeos life, but the Prince levies fines and exiles Romeo. Act three, Scene two Questions 1. Why is Juliet so impatient for the nurse to return? * Because she wants Romeo to come make their marriage official and she is waiting to see what news the Nurse has for her 2. What piece of news has upset Juliet the most? * The piece of news that upsets Juliet the most is that Romeo killed Tybalt. Note Scene 2 takes place in Capulets Orchard. Juliet worrying about the fact that Romeo has yet to arrive. The Nurse tells Juliet of Tybalts death. Juliet fears this means that Romeo is dead. The Nurse informs Juliet that Romeo is not dead but banished and is currently hiding in the fryers cell. Juliet asks the Nurse to go to Romeo and have him give her a farewell visit that night. Glossary 1. Line 2: Phoebus- a name of Apollo as the sun god; associated with the sun god, Helios 2. Line 3: Phaethon- son of the sun god; a rash character who was known for bringing the day to an abrupt end 3. Line 47: cockatrice- identified with Basilisk: a mythical serpent fabled to kill with its glance Background character Juliet longs for the coming of night and Romeo. .  . .  The Nurse appears; she has seen Tybalts corpse and heard that Romeo has been banished. The Nurse is so overwrought that her words first make Juliet think that Romeo is dead. When the Nurse finally makes it clear that Tybalt is dead and Romeo is banished, Juliet first turns against Romeo for killing her cousin, then defends him for killing the man who would have killed him. Then Juliet remembers that the Nurse said Romeo has been banished, which drives her to despair. The Nurse promises Juliet that shell make arrangements for Romeo to come that night for a farewell visit. Act three, Scene three Questions 1. Explain Romeo’s reaction to the news of his banishment. * He wants to kill himself. 2. What does the nurse give to Romeo? * Rope ladder Note Scene 3 takes place in Friar Laurnces cell. Friar Laurence bidding Romeo to come out of hiding. Romeo comes out and the Friar tells him that Romeo is banished. Romeo bemoans his fate because being banished is like a living death. There is a knock at the door and it is Juliets Nurse. The Nurse informs Rome and the Friar that Juliet is very distraught over the news of Romeos banishment. Romeo tries to kill himself but is stopped by the Friar and the Nurse. The Friar tells Romeo to go and visit Juliet that night and leave for Mantua in the morning. He also tells Romeo that while Romeo is in Mantua, the Friar will find a way to make Romeo and Juliets marriage public and gain Romeo a pardon. Glossary 1. Line 4: doom- judgement 2. Line 9: doomsday- another reference to the Day of Judgement, death 3. Line 143: mishav`ed- misbehaved Background character Learning from the Friar that he is to be banished, Romeo declares that the Friar is torturing him to death, then throws himself on the floor, moaning and weeping. .  . .  The Nurse brings news that Juliet is in just as bad shape as Romeo. Romeo, wild with guilt at the pain he has caused Juliet, tries to stab himself. Friar Laurence lectures Romeo and tells him what to do go to Juliet, then to Mantua until the Prince can be persuaded to pardon him. The Nurse gives Romeo the ring that Juliet asked her to take to him. These things put Romeo into a better frame of mind and he leaves Friar Laurences cell to go to Juliet. Act three, Scene four Questions 1. What does Capulet tell his wife to say to Juliet * Capulet tells his wife to tell Juliet that she will be marrying Paris on Thursday morning. 2. Why is paris happy? * Capulet tells Paris that he will command Juliet to marry him Note Scene 4 takes place in a room on the Capulets house. Capulet, the Lady Capulet, and Paris discussing Juliets sorrow at the death of Tybalt. Paris complains that her mourning is stopping him from courting her. Capulet tells Paris that he will command Juliet to marry him. Paris is happy with this. Capulet tells his wife to inform Juliet of her betrothal. Glossary 1. Line 17: mark you me- pay attention . Line 23: keep no great ado- make no big fuss 3. Line 35: by and by- soon Background character On a sudden impulse, Capulet promises Paris that Juliet will marry him the day after tomorrow. Act three, Scene five Questions 1. After Lady Capulet breaks the news about Paris, what is Juliet’s response? * Juliet says, she doesnt want to marry b ecause she is not ready yet. 2. What â€Å"scheme† does Juliet devise to get rid of the nurse and to get out of the house? * She tells the Nurse that she will agree to marry Paris so she will go to Friar Laurence to make confession, and clear all of her sins before she gets married to Paris. Note Scene 5 takes place in Capulets Orchard. Romeo and Juliet wishing that the morning was not upon them. For a brief minute they try to pretend that it is evening and not morning, but eventually they face the reality of Romeos banishment. After Romeo exits, Juliet begins to cry and her mother, Lady Capulet mistakes Juliets sorrow to be caused by the death of Tybalt and tells her that she plans to have Romeo poisoned. Then Lady Capulet tells Juliet that her father has arranged for her to marry Paris. Juliet of course refuses to marry Paris and argues with her mother until Lord Capulet arrives. Juliet argues her marriage with Paris to her father. Eventually he grows tired of her arguing with him and tells Juliet that she will obey his command then leaves the scene. Lady Capulet tells her daughter not to speak to her for a while and leaves. Alone with her Nurse Juliet decides to go speak with Friar Laurence for advice. Glossary 1. Line 129: conduit- a fountain 2. Line 149: chopped logic- a shallow and sophistical argument 3. Line 156: greensickness- an anemic disease that causes a pale, greenish color; an ailment of young unmarried women; suggests Juliets paleness Background character Just before dawn Romeo is preparing to leave, but Juliet declares that its still night, so he can stay. Romeo offers to stay and die, but Juliet urges him to leave. .  . .  The Nurse hurries in with the news that Juliets mother is coming. Romeo kisses Juliet and leaps out the window. Juliet asks if they will ever see each other again; Romeo is sure they will, but Juliet is full of foreboding. .  . .  Lady Capulet, assuming that Juliet is weeping for Tybalt, tells her that shes grieving too much, then decides that Juliet must be weeping because revenge has not been taken upon Romeo. Lady Capulet expresses her hatred of Romeo and Juliet appears to agree with her, though what she really means is that she loves Romeo. Lady Capulet then delivers news which she thinks ought to cheer up Juliet she is to be married to Paris. Juliet declares that she will not. Lady Capulet replies that Juliets father is coming, so Juliet ought to tell him that she wont marry Paris, if she dares. .  . .  Lady Capulet tells Capulet that Juliet has refused to marry Paris. Enraged, Capulet threatens to throw her out of the house if she doesnt change her mind. Juliet pleads with her mother to intervene, but Lady Capulet refuses.   . .  Juliet asks the Nurse for advice, and she tells Juliet that she ought to marry Paris because Romeo can never come back and Paris is better looking, anyway. Juliet pretends to accept the Nurses advice but decides that she will go to Friar Laurence for his advice. If he cant help her, she will kill herself. Act four, Scene one Questions 1. Is there anyt hing actually wrong with Paris? * Paris has kidney stones 2. Does it seem as though Paris would be a good husband? * Very much so. Hes a bit vain, but other than that, he has a great job. Avocado salesmen were rich and had zero competition back then. Note Scene 1 takes place in the Friars cell. Friar Laurence and Paris discussing Pariss upcoming wedding. Friar Laurence tries to convince Paris to take longer than the two days. Juliet cleverly pushes aside Pariss attempts to speak of the wedding. Juliet tells the Friar that she has no wish to marry Paris and would rather kill herself. The Friar then suggests that Juliet take a potion that will make hear appear dead and that he will let Romeo know of the plan. Glossary 1. Line 39   pensive:   sorrowful 2. Line 48   may prorogue:   can delay 3. Line 57   label:   strip attached to a deed to carry he seal; hence, conformation, seal Background character As Paris is making arrangements with Friar Laurence to perform the wedding ceremony between himself and Juliet, she appears. Paris tries to tease some sign of affection out of Juliet and reminds her that they are to be married on Thursday. .  . .  Juliet says that she will kill herself rather than marry Paris, and the Fr iar comes up with the plan for her to take the drug which will make her appear dead for 42 hours, so that the wedding will be called off and Romeo can come and take her to Mantua. Act four, Scene two Questions 1. How does Juliet please Capulet in this scene? * She apologizes for her disobedience. 2. What does Capulet’s reaction to Juliet’s apology tell you about him? * It tells us he’s very jealous and controlling Note Scene 2 takes place in the Hall of the Capulets House. Capulet, Lady Capulet, the Nurse, and two servants discussing serving plans. Juliet tells her father that she has decided she is happy to marry Paris. This makes Capulet very happy and he decides to move the wedding up a day. Lady Capulet complains that moving the wedding up a day will not give her enough time to prepare for the wedding. Capulet says everything will be fine. Glossary 1. Line 16   gadding:   wandering 2. Line 33   closet:   chamber 3. Line 43   huswife:   housewife Background character Capulet is making arrangements for the wedding feast when Juliet appears, begs her fathers pardon, and tells him that she will marry Paris. This makes Capulet so happy that he moves the wedding up to the very next day, Wednesday. Act four, Scene three Questions 1. How does Juliet rid herself of Nurse and her mother? * So that she can be alone to take the friars potion, Juliet tells her nurse that she is going to pray before her wedding. She just asks her mother to leave her alone 2. What other fears does Juliet have? * She fears that either it might not work and shell have to marry Paris the next morning, and that it might be a poison and she might die. Note Scene 3 takes place in Juliets chamber. Juliet and her Nurse discuss the upcoming wedding. The Nurse and Lady Capulet leave. Juliet then considers killing herself with her dagger, but instead decides to take the friars potion hoping that his plan works. She takes the potion and falls asleep. Glossary 1. Line 42   green:   new, freshly 2. Line 47   mandrakes:   (The root of the mandragora or   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   mandrake resembled the human form;   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   the plant was fabled to utter a   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   shriek when torn from the ground. ) 3. Line 57   Stay:   stop Background character Juliet persuades her mother and the Nurse to leave her alone. She agonizes over everything that could go wrong, is terrified by visions of the grave, and drinks to Romeo. Act four, Scene four Questions 1. Where is the scene take place? * Capulet’s house 2. What is lord capulet overseeing * The finishing touches Note Scene 4 takes place in a hall in the Capulet house. Wedding decorations are everywhere and Lord Capulet is overseeing the finishing touches. Lady Capulet and the Nurse enter the scene and Lord Capulet tells the Nurse to go wake up Juliet. Glossary 1. Line 11   mouse-hunt:   i. e. , hunter of women 2. Line 20   whoreson:   i. e. , fellow. (An abusive term used   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   familiarly. ) 3. Line 21   loggerhead:(1) put in charge of getting logs (2) a blockhead Background character The Capulets and their servants are busily preparing for the wedding. Paris musicians are heard, and Capulet sends the Nurse to awaken Juliet. Act four, Scene five Questions 1. How is Friar Laurences remark The woman is best married who dies a young bride ironic? * His idea is that its better to die before love fades, but it seems a strange thing for him to say. Its rather cold comfort to offer the grieving parents, and the Friar is the only one who knows that Juliet is actually married. 2. Explain the dramatic irony in the remarks and beliefs of Capulet and Lady Capulet. * Dramatic irony occurs when the audience knows something that the characters onstage do not know. Note Scene 5 takes place in Juliets chamber. The Nurse enters the chamber and attempts to wake Juliet. After being unsuccessful the Nurse believes Juliet to be dead. She alerts the household and over the course of the scene Lord Capulet, Lady Capulet, and Paris arrive to find out that Juliet is dead. Lord Capulet orders that the wedding decorations be changed to funeral directions. Glossary 1. Line 130 Catling:   (A catling was a small lutestring made   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   of catgut. ) 2. Line 133 Rebeck:   (A rebeck was a fiddle with three strings. ) 3. Line 136 Soundpost:   (A soundpost is the pillar or peg that   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   supports the sounding board of a   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   stringed instrument. ) Background character The Nurse tries to awaken Juliet, but finds that she is (apparently) dead. Lady Capulet and Capulet come running, then lament their daughters death. .  . .  The rest of the wedding party arrives, only to find that Juliet is dead and hear the clamor of lamentation. Capulet, Lady Capulet, Paris, and the Nurse go nearly wild with grief, but Friar Laurence takes command of the situation by reminding everyone that Juliet is now in a better place, and telling them proceed with her funeral. .  . .  As the musicians are starting to leave, Peter rushes in and demands that they play a sad song to cheer him up. They refuse, Peter insults them with a riddle, and they all leave to wait for lunch. Act five, Scene one Questions 1. What news does Balthasar bring to Romeo? * He tells romeo juliet is doomed to marry paris. 2. What actions does Balthasar’s news prompt Romeo to do? * Romeo prepares to return. Note Scene 1 takes place in a street of Mantua. Romeo reminiscing about a dream which he believes portends his reuniting with Juliet. Balthasar informs Romeo that Juliet has died. Romeo purchases poison from an apothecary that he plans to use to kill himself and then leaves for Verona. Glossary 1. Line 40   simples:   medicinal herbs 2. Line 59   ducats:   gold coins 3. Line 85   cordial:   restorative for the heart Background character Romeo expects good news from Verona, but receives the news that Juliet is dead. He buys poison of an apothocary and says that he intends to return to Verona and join Juliet in death. Act five, Scene two Questions 1. What does Friar John tell Friar Lawrence? Juliet has the fake sleeping potion. 2. After hearing this news from Friar John, what does Friar Lawrence intend to do? * Lawrence plans to tell Romeo about the fake plan. Note Scene 2 takes place in Friar Laurances cell. Friar John calling out to Friar Laurance. Friar Laurance asks Friar John of his trip to Mantua. Friar John informs Friar Laurance that he was unable to travel to Mantua because of an outbreak of the plaque. Friar Laurance realizes that this could cause his plan to have problems and that Juliet will be leaving soon so he leaves knowing that Juliet will awaken from her potion soon. Glossary 1. Line 8  Ã‚   searchers of the town:   town officials charged   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   with public health 2. Line 21   crow:   crowbar Background character Friar John explains to Friar Laurence why he was unable to deliver Friar Laurences letter to Romeo. Friar Laurence sends Friar John to get a crowbar and makes plans to be there when Juliet awakes, write again to Romeo in Mantua, and hide Juliet in his cell until Romeo arrives. Act five, Scene three Questions 1. Why is Paris at Juliet’s grave? * These may be out of rder, sorry. Pari is there to pay tribute 2. What information does Romeo’s letter give? * this letter doth basically, as the prince reads it, as handed to him by Balthazar, it detaisl teh lovers and friar Lawrences plans. Note Scene 3 takes place in a churchyard; in it a tomb belonging to the Capulets. Paris comes with Paige who is bearing a flower and a torch. Paris tells his Page to keep watch for other people. The pag then whistles letting Paris know someone is approaching. Paris hides and sees Romeo and Balthasar. Romeo tells Balthasar to leave, Blthatsar pretends to obey but hides. Paris who has been watching from hiding thinks that Romeo intends to desecrate the tomb and moves to stop him. Romeo tries to tell Paris that he has no intention of descrating the tomb but Paris does not believe him and the two fight. Romeo kills Paris who in his dying breath requests to be laid next to Juliet. Romeo agrees and lays Pariss body next to Juliets. After laying Pariss body next to Juliets Romeo takes the poison he bought from the apothecary and dies. Friar Laurence arrives and meets Balthasar who tells the friar that Romeo has gone into the tomb. Friar Laurence enters the tomb and finds Romeo dead. Soon afterward Juliet awakens and finds Romeo dead. Destroyed Juliet tells the friar to leave. Juliet tries first to drink the poison, when she finds it empty she tries to kiss Romeos lips to poison herself. When this does not work Juliet stabs herself in the heart and dies. Shortly after her suicide a watchman arrives having been alerted by Pariss Page. Once the watchman arrives, the Prince, Lord and Lady Capulet, the Nurse, Lord Montague and others arrive and find the bodies of Romeo, Juliet, and Paris. Eventually Friar Laurence arrives and explains everything. The Prince then fines both the houses and tells everyone that the death of Romeo and Juliet should be a lesson to all that peace has brought to heavy of a price. Glossary 1. Line 90   lightening:   exhilaration (supposed to occur   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   just before death. ) 2. Line 115 engrossing:   monopolizing, taking all; also,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   drawing up the contract 3. Line 121 be my speed:   prosper me Background character Paris comes to Juliets grave to strew flowers and weep. He sends his Page a ways off, to act as a look-out. Paris promises to visit Juliets grave every night, then the Page whistles to warn him that someone is coming. Paris sees a torch and withdraws into the darkness to see who else has come to Juliets grave. .  . .  Romeo sends Balthasar away with a letter for Romeos father, and starts to open the tomb. Paris comes forward and tries to arrest Romeo. They fight, and Romeo kills Paris. As he is dying, Paris asks to be laid next to Juliet. Romeo does this, pledges his love to Juliet, takes the poison, and dies. .  .   Friar Laurence comes and finds Romeo and Paris dead. Juliet awakes and Friar Laurence tries to persuade her to come out of the grave, but being afraid of being found there by the watchmen, he runs away. Juliet kills herself with Romeos dagger. .  . .  Paris Page brings the watchmen to the monument of the Capulets. Watchmen find Balthasar and Friar Laurence. P rince Escalus arrives, then Capulet, Lady Capulet, and Montague. Friar Laurence tells his story, which is confirmed by Balthasar, Paris Page, and the letter from Romeo to his father. Montague promises to build a golden statue of Juliet, and Capulet promises to build one of Romeo.

The Owl and the Pussy-Cat by Edward Lear | Analysis

The Owl and the Pussy-Cat by Edward Lear | Analysis The Owl and the Pussy-Cat In this essay I will be analysing Edward Lears poem ‘The Owl and the Pussy-Cat (Appendix 1), first providing a technical stylistic analysis concentrating on sound patterning, secondly locating its place in the history of poetry for children, and thirdly how the poem envisages childhood. Written in December 1867 for the daughter of a close friend of Lear, it was first published in an anthology by Lear entitled Nonsense Songs, Stories, Botany, and Alphabets (1871). Since then it has been published, illustrated, translated, and set to music many times. In 2001 it was voted Britains favourite poem. Lear uses simple, but creative language to tell the enchanting story of the voyaging sweethearts; the incongruous bird and cat. Comprising three stanzas, each eleven lines long, it consists of twin ballad quatrains and a three-line refrain, composed in a distinctive iambic metre. The rhyme scheme is ‘abcbdefe alternating between four and three stressed syllables per line, followed by the refrain ‘eee consisting of two lines with just one stressed syllable, and a final line with three. This uniform rhyme scheme not only gives the poem musical structure, but also coheres the very different parts of the story. The rhythmic parallelism of the refrains, in which all three lines end with the same stressed word, is a strict pattern in itself and foregrounds this part of the poem as it takes on an incantatory feel. Although the refrains are not the dominant structure of the poem, they do add musical reinforcement. The regular metrical pattern is what gives the poem its rising rhythm (anapests) and sing song form and there is little to disrupt the flow of the rhythm, or the story. The aim then is simplicit y and repetition; indeed the first instance of repetition occurs in the opening line, which features the poems title words thereby reaffirming the focus of the poem. But in the first stanza, the most noticeable sound pattern is the concentration of /p/ sounds; a phonological parallelism that extends across the text with the words ‘Pussy, ‘pea, ‘plenty‘ and ‘pound as well as occurring in ‘wrapped and ‘up. The recurrence of this plosive consonant emulates the plucking of guitar strings, which not only enhances the rhythm but also the visual effect of the serenading owl. While the plosive /p/ in ‘Pussy paired with the /b/ in ‘beautiful is not quite alliterative, it is sonorous and seductive of music, reflecting the depth and passion of the owls endearments. Note, too, that Lear also uses punctuation to emphasize meaning; the exclamation marks at the end of lines ten and eleven denote an expression of the owls feelings suggesting tha t the relationship is indeed more than just friendship. In addition to repetition and alliteration, Lear employs strong full rhymes to reinforce sound, meaning and rhythm, and they play an active part in the mood and purpose of this poem. Perfect end rhymes are the most noticeable, but there are also strong internal rhymes, namely occurring in every third line of each stanza, but also in the fifth line in the second and third ones. This mix of one and two syllable rhymes act as a sub-refrain bringing the song sound ‘round and round again to our ears while the text becomes more and more whimsical. Sound and musicality are further brought to our attention by the chiming end rhyme between ‘sing and ‘ring in lines thirteen and fifteen. The words are bright and short, as is the vowel sound, but followed by the consonant /ng/ the sound is extended, and the repetition of ‘ring in the refrain helps to mimic the ringing of a bell where we may hear the onomatopoeic resonance of ‘bong (from ‘bong-tree). The third stanza culminates in a concentration of internal and assonant rhymes which conjure a visual and aural feast to match the wedding banquet itself, with the final lines evoking the who-o-o, who-o-o of an owl through the long vowel /oo/ in ‘moon. All the qualities of song are present: pleasure, ease of repetition, memorability, rhythm, rhyme and refrains. The apparent spontaneity of these elements emerge from very traditional principles and Lears witty organisation. Besides musicality, the other main feature of the poem is ‘word-play with Lear incorporating occasional invented words: ‘bong-tree, ‘Piggy-wig and the nonsense adjective ‘runcible. As well as having a humorous effect, they introduce elements of spontaneous fantasy that punctuate the surreal journey of the anthropomorphised animals. Although these words appear made-up they still remain, just, within our normal expectations of English. However, the fact that they do deviate from the poems surrounding simple language means they are foregrounded, thus, the reader/listener pays particularly attention to them because they are satisfying to say without necessarily having to make sense. Even though ‘runcible has no actual meaning (although it has since been popularly defined as a three-pronged fork curved like a spoon) it has a phonological playfulness with the rolling of the ‘r in ‘run followed by the two syllables in ‘cible. The hyphenation o f ‘Piggy-wig actually incorporates the phonemes and meanings of two words, ‘pig and ‘wig, managng to succeed as an internal rhyme. While the inclusion of these words doesnt really add anything to the meaning of the phrase, they do at least sustain, and quite possibly strengthen the rhythm. It is not until the final stanza that the rhythm is disrupted slightly by the ‘running over of line twenty-three into twenty-four without a pause. The effect of this enjambment is that we are hurried on to a pivotal stage in the story, the point at which a transaction occurs. The caesura at the word ‘ring creates not just a pause, but also a brief tension as we await the pigs answer. Note, too, that the direct speech in these lines references traditional marriage vows reinforced by the stress on the words ‘willing and ‘will. Furthermore, this transaction also brings the ‘real world nearer to the surface. Without a ring the marriage cannot take place. Only when the ‘deal has been done can the tale, and thus the poem, continue as before. Once the regular rhythm resumes it drives the narrative onward, ending with feline and fowl dancing ‘hand in hand, on the edge of the sand†¦by the light of the moon. Imagery created by the moonlight (traditionally invoked as being romantic) means the enchantment of the scene dances on with the fantasy sweethearts and is where the reader/listener has to leave them. In spite of the whimsical narrative and word-play the poem is solidly anchored by the strong iambic ‘gait woven through the traditional ballad form of tetrameter and trimeter. The rising rhythms move the poem along whilst being controlled by the full and stable rhymes, making it very satisfying. Lears talent first saw the light of day in A Book of Nonsense (1846) containing a collection of his limericks and amusing illustrations which proved an immediate success with readers and critics. Lears work, along with that of Lewis Carroll, developed and popularised nonsense literature, especially with regard to their use of ‘nonsense words, thus, it is often seen as a distinctively ‘Victorian genre. But literary nonsense existed long before this and, as Styles points out in her essay about the history of poetry for children, can be traced back to the ‘wildness of the nursery rhyme (Styles, p. 211). These ancient and traditional rhymes from the oral tradition, familia rly known as ‘Mother Goose rhymes, are a collection of verses, lullabies, rhymes and tunes offering humour, repetition and storytelling, although few were originally created or intended for children. Eighteenth century poetry considered suitable for children was mostly didactic or moralistic, and often mean-spirited. Its chief aims were concerned with saving the soul and creating good character and, like other childrens literature, mostly reflected the ideas that adults held about what children should be interested in. But as Puritanism waned and new ideas about childhood emerged, poetic collections written specifically for children began to appear. Tommy Thumbs Song Book (1744) was the first attempt to put nursery rhymes from the oral tradition into print, and two collections from William Blake in 1789 and 1794, although not specifically written for children, did capture the essence of childhood. Other volumes of child-centered poetry appeared in the early part of the ninetee nth century, and even though poets at this time continued to follow in the same moralistic tradition there was a growing interest in childrens emotions and experiences. The mid and late nineteenth century produced Stanzaan abundance of poetry for children, including that of Lear, which coincided with the changing views on childhood. Although the roots of nonsense verse are earlier than the nineteenth century, this is the period the most celebrated and notable examples appear. Lears limericks and nonsense rhymes were not just enjoyed by children, but also by adults, who found them a welcome relief from the restrictive teachings of the Church and Victorian society in general. These witty and humorous rhymes were fun to read aloud and easy to remember. But Lears work is not just distinguished by his linguistic play; it also included eccentric and comical drawings. Although his illustrations for ‘The Owl and the Pussy-Cat are somewhat conservative in that the animals are depicted quite realistically and appear expressionless, they do offer an interpretative effect and would have greatly enhanced the impression of the poem at the time of publication. By contrast, the single illustration in 100 Best Poems for Children (Puffin, 2002) is unsophisticated and childlike. While the small brightly coloured picture does offer a modicum of interpretation, in the context of the anthology its purpose is more generic and there is very little for a child to linger over. The lack of illustrations implies that the value of the text is greater than the visual component, and that the anthology is aimed at the older child who can read independently. Indeed, the publishers own website advertises it for an age group of eight to twelve years. Intere stingly, Montgomery points out that the book ‘includes rhymes for the (just) pre-schooler (Montgomery, p. 137) which suggests that the purpose of this anthology is not just for children to read alone, but also by parents, or in the classroom. Certainly part of the appeal and enduring popularity of ‘The Owl and the Pussy-Cat is that it lends itself to group choral reading. The poems jaunty rhythm, playful rhymes, nonsensical words, and the enchanting tale it tells all conspire to grab a childs attention. Creative words and light hearted verse mean children can explore language and enjoy words for their sound and the images they conjure without it necessarily having to make sense. Although the story is reminiscent of fairytales, it is the ‘nonsense words that distinguish the ‘real world from make-believe. Whether the child believes that owls and pussycats really do sail away and get married in the moonlight is irrelevant: a story, especially one told in the for m of a poem or song, is understood by the child to be part of play and the imaginative world, not the ‘real one. The rhythm and sound-patterns of the poem are more important than the potential ‘reality or credibility of the tale being told. However, the prioritising of sound and rhythm over sense and ‘realism does not mean that this ‘nonsense poem is meaningless. Lear plays on the sound of words, but with or without the nonsensical elements logic still exists and it is a perfectly coherent tale of romantic love. Yet themes emerge in terms of different depths as well as in terms of being central or peripheral. The surface topic, the one most appealing to children, is a jolly tune about animal adventures hinting at love and a comedy of marriage. On another level it is a strange pairing of species and events set to a rather hypnotic rhythm. Deeper down still, both protagonists are carnivores and night hunters. The poem then is not just about innocent ‘nons ense, but also something uncanny. Lear manages to achieve a balance between elements that seem to make sense and elements that do not; a fanciful tale set against the solid foundations of traditional song, familiar everyday language and image unfamiliarly juxtaposed, conventional but also childish. It gratifies the childs appetite for the musical and for the strange. The organisation of the rhythms, rhymes, and nonsensical words gives the poem a whimsical, and yet compelling narrative than lodges in the mind of the adult as well as the child. All these elements contribute to making it entertaining and memorable: ‘nonsense that delights the ear and the imagination.