Congratulations! You have officially completed a basic analytical study of the drama, "The Crucible", how does it feel? Do you feel that you acquired any new knowledge that you might internalize? Please provide a post with some sort of specific commentary to this, and agree or disagree with your fellow students.
In addition, please go on to:
www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29290684/?gt1=43001
read the article, in addition, click under the picture where it says to see related photos. I want you to able to view the editorial cartoon, and the other 2 photos.
Afterwards go on to:
www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29263781
Reflect for a few moments on what you have read. Post a commentary on what your reaction is to this particular situation, and as always remember to read the other post and agree or disagree. By the way, those of you that always post 1st or 2nd, you should go back on sometime during the weekend to see what the other students are posting.
You might want to goggle Mr. Sharpton to get some background info on him, and The New York Post to see what type of publication or history this publication has.
I'm looking forward to starting the novel, "The Scarlet Letter", with all of the classes, and starting an awesome new project.
That's it for now and enjoy the weekend!
Ms. Ojeda
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The Crucible was a very good drama i really did enjoy it. I felt that i learned so much from just reading the play. I learned about that time period and about the Salem witch trials including the characters involved in the play. The information that i learned from the crucible will always stick with me and i will never forget this great drama. The cartoon with the police shooting the chimp is not neccesary. I feel that the artist whoever drew this up should be ashamed and needs to make a public apology. And also should write President Obama a letter stating how sorry he is. Some people are saying that its mot that big of a deal but it is Barack Obama is everybodys President reguardless if you like him or not so people need to start respecting him for the person he is and as the President. This cartoon also shows how childish the artist is and he needs to grow up.
ReplyDeleteCorey Sax
Period 3
The Crucible was a very interesting drama. It was extremely influential, for me, to know that what I spent reading during the past 3 weeks was actually non-fictitious. Reading a true story is always more appealing than a fictitious story. On a scale from 1(worst) to 5 (best), I would give this a 4. The main reason that I am not giving it a 5 is because of the “old and ancient” language that is used. But other than that, this was a fabulous and intricate story and I am very glad to have read it with the best English teacher in the world, Mrs. Ojeda. After reading and depicting both articles, I have come to the conclusion that I will never believe any controversial issue that the New York Post has to report about. If someone has enough guts to publicly insult and deteriorate the President of the United States of America, what next will that such person be able to do. It won’t be a surprising thing if the African-American community will boycott the New York Post.
ReplyDeleteJonathon Lenett Period 1
After completing a basic analytical study of the drama, “The Crucible”, it feels that I have a better understanding of the entire plot. The knowledge I acquired after reading the drama will definitely help me in future English classes. I might even internalize the knowledge obtained from the drama in an SAT essay as a literature reference. As Jonathon Lenett mentioned in his blog, I agree that the drama is more interesting because it is nonfiction. Before reading “The Crucible” I had no knowledge on the Salem witch trials, but now I know plenty of useful information about the topic.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the article, “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” I feel that it was an extremely disrespectful cartoon. Even though The New York Post already apologized “to those who were offended by the image” the cartoon created more chaos in the United States. After seeing the related photos, I also feel that the image in the cartoon was too deep and should’ve never been posted. The chaos in the United States can be exemplified in the image of the protest which said, “Hundreds of demonstrators gather outside New York Post headquarters to protest a controversial chimpanzee cartoon in the newspaper.” In conclusion, since The New York Post apologized for the cartoon after it was criticized numerous times everyone in the United States should move on instead of creating more problems.
Joanna Berkowitz
1st Period
Having read "The Crucible" I discovered that everything isn't what it seems, that there are problems underneath everything. On our analysis packet I felt like I was repeating the same concepts, like Pariss' selfishness and Proctor's admirability. Maybe I didn't dig deep enough but overall it was still a good play.I don't really think that the dialogue was old because I have read transcripts from the late 17th century, and it was extremely boring. With "The Crucible" I didn't really find it boring at all. I can't wait to start "The Scarlet Lettetr, I know a little bit about the plot and it sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteThe article about the controversial cartoon made me see the cartoon in a different way. On Friday I saw the cartoon and I was immediately disgusted with the fact that such a respectable newspaper would publish such forward racism. The background in the cartoon shows racist references in the South like the beware of dog sign. Whites used to intimidate blacks with the dogs. After reading the article I can see what they meant by the relevance in the chimpanzee being killed in Conneticut, but I find the quote to be off topic with the subject if they were indeed talking about the chimpanzee being killed by cops.
The second article mainly focused on Al Sharpton. Al Sharpton is a civil rights activists who many call an "opportunist." He was a Democratic nominee in the election of 2004. Having researched him a little bit I found out that he seeks black equality in society as well as gay rights and seems like a respectable man. He like many others, felt the like the editorial cartoon was racially insensitive. I hope we will further this discussion in class.
~Tiffany Vega Period 1
After reading and analyzing "The Crucible", I absolutely feel as if I've learned a plethora on the subject. Prior to reading "The Crucible" I had know nothing of the Salem witch trials, I really didn't even know what they were. I had heard of it, but never actually dug deeper into it. It is definitely a useful drama, not only in life lessons,but with future studying. The knowledge about the plot, especially Abigail's manipulation and Proctor's guilt, are great details because it may show up in future English classes and in SAT, as Joanna previously metioned. "The Crucible" is absolutelly a play that should be mandatory in high school to read because it was super interesting and not the usual Shakespeare, which is not interesting. In regards to the articles "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon" and "Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp", there is no doubt that the cartoon was offensive. I was surprised to see an article like this. It was almost confusing because although I can see how it was meant to ridicule the incindent in Conneticut, the fact that there was a black chimp and the words "They'll have to find someone else to write the next stimulus bill" totally changes the whole image around and pushes it across as being racist due to the fact that our new president is African-American and such a cartoon puts out a threat to his death. Even though the newspaper apoligized, it does not take away the fact that it was published. In critical economic times like this, there's no room for posting such offensive images, such a cartoon should never even have been published. In respect to the related photos, I feel as if the cartoon is offensive because it totally denotes the threat of the assasination of our new president Barrack Obama. Both the articles and the cartoons were very interesting, yet not politically correct nor ethical.
ReplyDeleteCarla Quintana
Period 1
After reading and analyzing "The Crucible", I have learned a great deal on what paranoia and hysteria can do to people. It taught me that it is not wise to make a decision when you're not calm. Now with regards to the article, I did find the cartoon extremely offensive in every scenario I imagined. First, if the comic was just about the monkey it is offensive to the monkey's owner. If the comic is trying to make a joke about President Obama being a monkey, then it is not only in bad taste but extremely racist. Well in closing I am really glad we are done with "The Crucible" and hopefully the rest of the literature won't be as dull.
ReplyDeleteFelipe Vidal
Period 1
After reading and studying "The Crucible" I feel that it was a very valuable piece of literature for high school students to read. Before reading this drama I knew very little on the Salem witch trials. As Jonathon and Joanna have mentioned, I agree that "The Crucible" is a lot more interesting because its nonfiction. The subject of witch craft appeals to many people of todays era and it's mostly written about only in fiction. I can internalize a variety of new vocabulary words that will benefit me in future classes along with the intense history that took place in Salem during the 17th century.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the aritcles, "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon" and "Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp", I certainly think that this cartoon crossed the line. I agree with Al Sharpton's when he says that this cartoon is "troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys." How could any cartoon artist think that this would be an appropriate theme for their cartoon? Many people see this cartoon as extremely disrespectful due to the fact that our President, Barrack Obama, is African-American and this cartoon shows him essentially being shot. Even though the New York Post appologized it dosn't erase this incident from everyone's minds, especially the African-Americans. The related photos are essential in piecing the whole incident together because you can see how the African-American population feels threatened by racism. The articles were very specific and helped me understand the situation more clearly.
Taylor Chatting
Period 1
There are various kinds of literature pieces that manipulate the minds of the readers with the purpose of making us think one way or the other, whether it is positive, negative, or neutral. The drama "The Crucible" has impacted me in a positive and helpful way. By reading this piece, written by Arthur Miller, I have realized how many literary terms can be applied to one subject; such as allusion, simile, and metaphor. A tool I enhanced from The Crucible is literary analysis, I believe it is a very important characteristic to a reader because it opens many doors to the understanding of the piece. Also, the religious background given is crucial for the complete understanding of this drama.
ReplyDeleteMoving on to the article "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon", my personal oppinion contradicts with some of the ones reflected above. The overall concept of the article was offensive, yes, yet isn't this way how Americans understand political conflicts? To me, Americans understand by dificult and harsh situations. Examples such as the recession we just got into and how we are thinking it twice before buying that pair of shoes we don't really need, help my point get through. As in for the "offensive" cartoon, I share my opinion with Joanna that we should just let it go and worr about more relevant aspects in our country.
Victoria Hernaiz
Period 4.
After reading "The Crucible" I learned a tremendous amount of things, it also really made me look at life in a different way. This book to me was great, I enjoyed every second of it. I believe that the chimp cartoon was very unnecessary, they should never have put it in the newspaper in the first place. I also agree with the others, it was very offensive, and sum what raciest but then again it is just a cartoon, and was most likely not meant to offend anyone.
ReplyDeleteTravis Anagnos
p.3
After finishing with "The Crucible" I learned a great deal of information. I did have some prior knowledge of the Salem witch-craft trials, but after the lesson we had and articles that were read, I gained an immense knowledge on the past event just as Corey had too. It also demonstrated to me how the story itself paralleled with the 1950s. I never would have made the connection, if it weren't for the intenses background research on the McCarthy era. Overall I enjoyed reading the play and learned an abundance of information on the circa of the 1600s as well as the 1950s.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the two articles and seeing the cartoon, I take into consideration why so many people had been offened by it. Personally, I see what the artist was attempting to portray rather than the racist implications everyone sought to see. I believe the artist purpose for the cartoon was more for a politcal jest rather than a racist comment. His choice to use a monkey as a symbol did infact correlate with the event of a monkey on a rampage, but also a racist slur against African-Americans. I see the innocence of the cartoon, yet I do believe they should have been more careful with their choice. What suprised me the most, was how the editor went about his apology. The editor should have recognized the mistake and apoplogized for the offenses rather than protect the intial intentions of the cartoon. The paper was extremly careless with their cartoon; they should have taken into consideration on how many indviduals would have percieved it.
~Kristian Shaffer
Period 4
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI learn a lot from the Crucible. like the witch trials and how extreme religion was back then and there extreme way of life which was to work all week and pray Sunday all day. Now about the article I think it is extremely disrespectful for the United States Of America because there president is been insulted. If the cartoon was made in another country that still would be considered bad. But is a hole new ball game when it comes from the USA. This cartoon is basically saying that the United State people don’t have any respect towards there own president and country. So I agree with everyone about there disagreement towards the cartoon.
ReplyDeleteArturo Sifontes
PR 3
2/22/09
The drama "The Crucible" exceeded my expectations however, my expectations were quite low. Furthermore, I learned a minuscule amount of knowledge, I had already attained colossal knowledge on Puritans through the numerous history courses I have taken. However, "The Crucible" does contain an opulence of situations that can be referred to in essays. Nonetheless, I aspire that Nataniel Hawthorn's "Scarlet Letter" exceeds my expectations.
ReplyDeleteThe cartoon which portrayed a chimpanzee being shot could be interpreted in numerous ways, just like every cartoon. Its not the fault of the creator that his cartoon was interpreted in a negative way. Mr. Sharpton has a tendency to interpret substantial amounts of newspapers, events and such as racist acts. I don't think The New York Post has to apologize because civilians interpreted a cartoon as a racist one. Anyone could interpret cartoons as offensive even if it wasn't the intention of the artist. This interpretation has been highlighted even though it wasn't the intended one because of the new African-American president and the fear dwelling inside people's hearts.
Steven Erenst
4th period
"The Crucible" by Arthur Miller is a drama that I feel many people should read. The drama gives a factual interpretation into a depressing time in American history. I had always known of the Salem Witch Trials, but have never known the specifics of what actually occurred. "The Crucible" is one of the best pieces of literature I've read in my academic history. I would recommend it to anyone that would be interested in learning about this period of time.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this article on "MSNBC" I am flabbergasted about what the "New York Post" allowed into their paper. This editorial cartoon not only demonstrates an assassination of our President, but it also demonstrates racism and a mockery to a very serious issue. By comparing President Obama to a monkey it is similar to using the derogatory term of calling an African American a monkey. It is also making a mockery of a very serious issue that occurred a few days ago. A chimpanzee injured a woman to the extent that she needs a face transplant. This is no issue that should be joked about. I think whoever made this editorial cartoon should be suspended from work if not fired.
Arash Afshar
Period 4
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTo be honest, I did not like the Crucible. I know most people would put that it helped them with the vocabulary and understanding classical pieces of literature. Nevertheless, these things are part of the curriculum of the class, it had nothing to do with the book. Now, I’m not trying to insult anyone, it’s just that for my personal preference there was too much “beating around the bush” if you might say. Although the research about the Salem witch trials was interesting, the Crucible did not have a great impact on me. Additionally, concerning the New York Post article I think it wasn’t necessary for all the protestors to make a big deal out of the situation. As the editorial explained, “It was to mock the economic stimulus,” not to criticize Barrack Obama. People might find the article somewhat offensive due to the fact that the chimpanzee might symbolize the African Americans, but the actions taken were not necessary. Not that the chimpanzee symbolizes a race, but if people take it that way then a formal complaint should be presented and that should be the end of the argument, no protest is needed, it just causes more chaos.
ReplyDeleteLucas Baistrocchi
4th Period
English Hon. III
The basic analytical study of the Crucible has provided sufficient information for future analyzing. I have not learned new information regarding the background of the Salem Witch Trials as I had known the majority of what was going to occur. In a sense, I am glad to have completed the Crucible as it seemed to have dragged on for the past recent days.
ReplyDeleteOn the subject of the political cartoon, I solemnly believe that the cartoon was constructed in the attitude of a racist on the matter of both a thought assasination and intentional begin racist as Al Sharpton had stated ,"troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys". I agree with Arash Afshar that the person(s) responsible for the constuction and publication of the political cartoon should be either suspended or fired.
-Brandon Sproul
Period 4
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe novel "Crucible" was a great story. Showing how an extreme of anything including religion can be used against itself inorder for individuals to get what they want. As for the cartoon it is not racist because it's linking a current event to a failed stimulus package. Al Sharpton just made a jump on this as always. You have to read both sides of the story to see this. Honestly why would a New York newspaper one of the most liberal places, make a racist cartoon. No on is that suicidal especially when it is a democratic president.
ReplyDelete-Daniel Ortiz
Period 3
After completing a basic analytical study of the drama, "The Crucible", it feels like I have a better understanding on what happen during the Salem witch trials, McCarthyism, and in general society’s reaction to problems. I acquired a lot of knowledge while reading Arthur Miller’s, “The Crucible” this will help me in the future. I definitely agree with Joanna Berkowitz (1st period), when asked to write an essay on the SAT or on other intellectual prompts, it will be easy to make reference to “The Crucible” as a classic literature piece of work. Reflecting upon the two articles just read, “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” and “Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp”, I concluded that people should be more careful with what they joke about. This insignificant joke, lead to misunderstandings and even thoughts of this cartoon demonstrating racism and assassination threats to Barrack Obama. This cartoon showed disrespect and insensitiveness from the New York Post, because it is very controversial and lacks respect toward the African-American race. Citizens demonstrated unification, when together they protested for what they believed, and in result got an apology from the New York Post. I hope that other newspapers, and everyone learns something from this experience, one should be more careful about what they joke around with and be considerate towards other’s feelings. Now people should forgive the New York Post, learn from their mistakes, and move on, because there are larger problems we should be concerned about.
ReplyDeleteAlma Ricart
4th Period
''The Crucible'' was one of the best dramas thati have ever read i also think that its a play that people should really read because you really learn alot just by reading. It also learned alot about Salem and how people follow their religion and the ways that they respected, i also liked the lessons that all the characters learned which was lying that was one of the biggest things that happened throughout the play and the conflicts that it caused and how it also caused them their lifes. To conclude it was one of the best place that i have ever read and I recommend people to read it.
ReplyDeleteStefania Berman
Period: 3 English III
The cartoon with the police shooting is the rudest thing i've ever seeen because the person that had the idea to draw such a bad image should really be arrested, and be charged for what he did and he should be ashamed of what he did. He should also write an apology letter to President Barrack Obama saying that he's really sorry about what he did because and by also drawing a police shooting a chimpanzee thats just absurbed and disrispectfull and that man should again be ashamed of himself.
ReplyDeleteStefania Berman
Perido: 3 English III
Well, it feels great to have finished the literary analysis of “The Crucible”, a drama written by Arthur Miller. Personally I thought that “The Crucible” was an interesting piece, because it provided students with historic facts plus the creativity of a writer, making it more appealing for students; although, the facts given by the author are not a hundred percent correct, the general idea portrayed of the witch-hunts and the witch trials in Salem are indeed precise. This drama does teach the reader about the frustrating situation John Proctor, the protagonist, was found in when he was falsely accused of practicing witchcraft, and the parallel it has to the McCarthyism period in the 1950s when random people were falsely accused of being communist. In both situations whether you were accused of being a witch or a communist, you would be in enormous problems and it would most likely ruin your life.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, concerning the New York Post article “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon”, I strongly agree with what Lucas wrote revolving the issue when he stated “I think it wasn’t necessary for all the protestors to make a big deal out of the situation.” Even though the cartoon does in fact show a dead chimpanzee representing President Barack Obama, it was not meant to be taken literally to the extent of thinking that President Obama is will be assassinated, nor it was necessary to massively protest against the New York Post. An editorial cartoon is meant to shows a biased message expressing the author’s opinion of a subject. Since we are granted the freedom of speech in this country, expressing an opinion cannot be legally sanctioned; thus, massively protesting is not going to achieve anything but a meaningless apology.
Oscar Betancourt
Period 4
After completing a basic analytical study of the drama, “The Crucible”, I now understand the plot A lot better. I personally did not like the Drama because I am not a fan of reading or witchcraft. I do not feel like I learned anything from this play or can inquire it in the future. Agreeing with Johnathan Lennett's post about this play being Nonfiction, I can agree completely in it being a wonderful play for those interested in Puritan knowledge and witchcraft back then. The Crucible most definitely opened can open up a door for those interested in Salem's witch trials of 1692.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand the article, “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” I feel was an disrespectful cartoon. Although, The New York Post has apologized “to those who were offended by the image” this cartoon is more insulting for just a plain apology. Viewing the pictures, I believe it was very odd. I agree with Oscar Betancourt, people shouldn't be taking the cartoon very seriously, but I still believe that this cartoon was drawn to bring attention to the creator and offend those who are with Obama. I might not have any ideal about politics, But I do believe cartoons representing death of our new president should not be posted up.
Natasha Hamaoui p.1
I really enjoyed reading “The Crucible”. Specially because as Mr. Jonathon Lenett said, a true story it’s always more appealing than a fictitious story. I think that I not only enjoyed this story but I also learned from it, I saw the importance of saying the truth and I can say that thanks to John Proctor’s experience with Abigail, I’m going to be more careful with the people that I have around me. I hope that this next novel "The Scarlet Letter" is as good as “The Crucible”. About the articles read, all I can say is that the cartoon is an offense to our president and no apology should be accepted. I agree with the people that protested against the New York Post outside its headquarters.
ReplyDeleteAndres D'Elia
Period 3
After attaining new knowledge of "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller gave me a great insight of information that I havn't grasped before. Previous knowldge was helpful in reading this drama but now that I have discovered more about the Salem Witch Trials really gave me a different aspect on how to look at the subject. I am proud of myself that I read this drama and am certainly excited to expand my knowledge about Salem 1692.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading "Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp." I would except the apology because I believe that The New York Post didn't post that cartoon purposely. If they wanted to compare Obama to a chimpanzee then i believe that they would imply it in another cartoon and not one that has an explanation too.
Rudy Lavecchia
Period 4
To commence, I feel that I have learned more than I ever thought I would want or need to learn about The Crucible. This is because not only did we read an entire play by ourselves and then discussed it in class, but we also went over the time periods that The Crucible occurred and when Miller wrote it. This background information brought us to the realization of the allusion Miller made with McCarthyism which was what was happening in his time. In addition, all this new knowledge I have acquired I know I will definitely prosper from because it is something I will be able to make many allusions to thanks to my vast knowledge on The Crucible now.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, I strongly believe people just need to come down. It is said we live with religious freedom and that racism doesn't exist anymore. Then why is it that it is prohibited to even mention anything about religion in school? Why is it that one can't say an insignificant joke of another race without starting a fight somehow? Great, we have freedom of speech so we can say whatever we want, but what is the point if nobody will respect an opinion? This political cartoon was formed from the opinion of the artist and was approved by the New York Post. Granted, political cartoons are left for one's imagination of what the artist is attempting to portray. Why must one lash out at the poor artist who is just trying to make a decent living by expressing his opinion with pencil and paper? It is extremely appropriate for the New York Post to apologize for unknowingly offending someone but they are completely right when they say that the people who are against the paper, saw the cartoon "as an opportunity for payback...To them, no apology is due."
Understandably, Sharpton reviewed this cartoon and interpreted it differently to what the artist was trying to portray.However, Sharpton is just taking things way out of proportion with protests and then has Peter Aviles supporting him by saying, "Just the fact that they put a monkey with gunshot wounds in his chest, it gives the idea of an assassination." The artist is probably scared to ever pick up a pencil ever again.
Sebastian Posada
1st Period
Personally, I feel I didn't learn a lot from the novel. I had previously done extensive research on the Salem Witch Trials when I lived in New York. While the drama was very emotional and riveting, the historical inaccuracies were too great to keep my interest. Furthermore, having read this book before, the book lost much of its dramatic flair for me.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the story “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” and reading some previous posts, I was dissapointed by the outrage that was so blown out of proportion because of it. Political discourse and satire are necessary for a society to function properly and I believe the President should not be immune to it. I also agree with Oscar Betancourt who said that "this cartoon shouldn't be taken seriously". By expressing such outrage at such a minor thing it desensitizes the public for when an actual crisis or threat occurs.
-Ryan Terrell
period 3
Truthfully, I did not enjoy reading “The Crucible”, a drama that is set in Salem in 1696 which focus on the witch-hunts. I thought it was just another book that we are required to read in order to complete the curriculum. Neverthless, i thought that me reading this drama made me understand the concept of themes and tones a lot better.
ReplyDeleteAfter seeing the cartoon that relates Obama to a monkey, I was shocked that someone would draw this and that it would still be aloud to be posted in the newspaper. Eventhough I thought that it was hillarious, it shouldn’t have been posted in the newspaper because Obama is now the president and it is a rascist cartoon.
-Thomas Worthington
p.1
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ReplyDeleteI highly enjoyed reading "The Crucible". Arthur Miller created an atmosphere of suspense and drama while not straying too far from actual history. In reading and analyzing "The Crucible", I've learned more about the Puritans in the late 17th century, as well as new skills in which to analyze and interpret literature.
ReplyDeleteAfter looking at the editorial cartoon and reading the article, I was shocked at how offended many people were for a simple cartoon that the New York Post had apologized for. I agree with Ryan as the President should not be exempt from political satire, and that people should laugh rather than be outraged at such a silly cartoon.
Kayl Karadjian
Period 4
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteNow that we're done with "The Crucible", I learned a great deal of information of Salem. I didn't like the inaccuracy of the drama, but reading it let me do my own research of the witch trials. I also like the fact that it's leaning more on the true story side.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the MSNBC article, i was surprised to see what other people thought of the political cartoon. When I saw the cartoon the first time, I didn't think it was related to Obama. It could be that people has misinterpreted the cartoon, and some people just have no humor. I think people shouldn't take these cartoons seriously.
Steven Marcano
Period 4
The Crucible was a intresting drama i really enjoyed it.I felt that it taught me about that time period and about the Salem and the witch trials,how the town was affected by it.The cartoon with the police shooting the chimp is unnecessary. Although i dont agree and do not like President Obama, it was uncalled for like Corey stated below, he is our president and is runnning all of our country. I do also agree that he should send a sincere apolgie to the public.
ReplyDeleteCasey Durkin
Period 3
To me "The Crucible" was a very unique story, I am glad to have read it. It opened my eyes to a lot of new things that I did not know had happened. Although I do not agree at all on how these people lead their lives and controlled their communities, it was interesting to see how they dealt with it. It was also a big changed to read a story with a play script, rather than an actual story line. I found it a bit harder to understand, but after a while I became accustomed.
ReplyDeleteThe two articles based on the publication of a cartoon in The New York Post really puzzle me. I can see where all this turmoil is coming from but I do not believe it should be made into such a big deal. Frankly the United States of America has a lot bigger problems to deal with than caring if a person likes or dislikes the president. People are always trying to make drama out of any situation. The whole point of a political cartoon is for the artist to be able to express his or her ideas, with that said these cartoons should be the last thing we criticizes.
---Emanuela Verardi
P-1
I agree with most of my classmates, I enjoyed reading “The Crucible”. After reading the “The Crucible” I feel like I have learned loads about the Salem witch trials. The play was very interesting. It had numerous themes and it made you think back and forth with what Arthur Miller was living through and the drama that was going on in Salem. It also made me reflect that being a fanatic is not beneficial. You get so locked up in your narrow lines that you don’t see the huge picture. It is also interesting to see that human kind is very vulnerable, especially when they are scared!
ReplyDeleteA painting, drawing or a cartoon expresses the artist views and feelings. Each individual have their own beliefs and perspectives. Not everyone is going to have the same opinion because that is how art is! The artist and the newspaper had no intentions to portray President Barrack Obama as dead chimpanzee. If the public saw it as that, unfortunately that was their point of view. I think that the New York Post did the correct thing by apologizing. The people should take their apology and end this drama.
- Carolina Celis Period 4
In regards to "The Crucible", I believe I picked up slight new things that I may internalize. I have learned a vast amount about the history of Salem, Massachusetts in the late 17th century, and the horrid, harmful witch hunts that went on there. It was a really drawing topic and easy to learn about.
ReplyDeleteOn a completely different subject, I believe that people are being way too sensitive and reading into this cartoon more then necessary. I'm not saying this isn't a completely atrocious and unnecessary cartoon because I don't agree with it at all, but I think it shouldn't get this much play. I agree with Corey Sax in that the artist and newspaper should make a public apology and the matter should die right there. There are many ways this editorial cartoon can be explored and interpreted that I don't think the newspaper or artist realized and they should be more careful with there content.
Max Adamsky
Period 1
I feel the same way as Max does about "The Crucible." It made learning about that time period very easy, and it was a topic I've never learned before.
ReplyDeleteWhen I heard we were reading Arthur Miller's the Crucible, I was immediately excited. Aside from a fantastic drama, there are many lessons to learn from the Crucible. What doing the wrong thing can end up leading to, about lying and it's consequences, and so on. I very much enjoyed reading it, and analyzing the characters and their quirks, and what happens throughout the drama while their personalities start to unfold. I also have learned quite a wide range of vocabulary that I was not as familiar with before I had read the Crucible.
ReplyDeleteAs for the chimp cartoon, I find absolutely ridiculous. It was absolutely wrong to direct such a racist cartoon at our president. It is not necessary of him to show his feeling on what Barrack Obama decides to do, into an offensive, flat out rude, and uncalled for cartoon.
Paulina Gregory
Period 1
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ReplyDelete"The Crucible" was a remarkable drama to read. The plot of the drama surpassed my low prospect from it. When we began reading the drama it didn't catch my attention at all but as we did the web quest it helped me see the real story the Dr. Miller was trying to present to the reader. Then I became more curious to the subject because it helped me understand that what is written in words isn't always what is meant. The bases of "The Crucible" are so strong that once a person really reads the drama they began to understand what the author is putting in front of them. For me it was a true pleasure reading the drama because it gave me an insight to what people were like and it similarly forced me to question that fact that do we still today do what was done before but behind different curtains. The denotation of "Crucible" itself sums up the entity of the drama. "The Crucible" did has olden language in order to expose the reader to the time frame it was referring to but it isn't too the depth that it would surpass the readers capability to understand the concept of the drama. I guess, "Don't judge a book by its cover" really came into play in my situation. Overall, It was a good experience reading "The Crucible". As for my reaction to the news article, I would like to say that an editorial cartoon expresses ones feelings to a particular situation and once expressed then it’s up to the public to decide what perspective they will look at it with. It was a very double-meaning cartoon and any average person can see the racism and stereotyping presented in the cartoon. New York Times is such a reputable newspaper and magazine that it’s a very big irresponsible act on their behalf to expose such a controversial cartoon to the public eye. No excuses can be given for the misunderstanding because everyone noticed it and it can’t just a coincidence when we actually had hundreds of people protesting against it. Everyone has their own way of looking at things and as a cartoonist this has to be the first thought in mind. The following article talks about Al Sharpton, Civil rights activist, who called the cartoon "troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys." Later in the same article Al Sharpton was refereed to as an opportunist. In a statement, Post Editor-in-Chief Col Allan said: "The cartoon is a clear parody of a current news event, to wit the shooting of a violent chimpanzee in Connecticut. It broadly mocks Washington's efforts to revive the economy. Again, Al Sharpton reveals himself as nothing more than a publicity opportunist." All I can say is that indeed the cartoon depicts insensitivity towards the efforts of the stimulus plan and such a “mistake” next time may cost a more severe conscious, saying this from what the reaction of the audience was.
ReplyDeleteSahar Jafar
Period 2
After reading the drama "The Crucible" I have retained useful and interesting facts and information. It has an exciting and suspenseful plot based on true events. After working with this drama, I now have knowledge on both McCarthyism and the Salem witch trials which are both extremely similar events.
ReplyDeleteI agree with that people who believe that the cartoon is extremely racist. There is no excuse for a cartoon such as that one to be printed. It is a racist cartoon that I believe is comparing our new president to a monkey. It is unacceptable and the newspaper should suffer great consequences for such an act. The editorial cartoon is offensive and is an act of racism which should be dealt with. Our country has been improving on the declining racism and this is an obstruction to that.
Ryan Hodges
Period 1
I honestly really enjoy "The Crucible" its was and interesting drama/play and the fact that its based on a true event of the salem witch trails back in the 1600's is fasinating. I did learn a lot from this drama, it's some completely different from anything i've ever read. I think the cartoon that is an insult to president Obama is really inapropriate, rude,and disrespectful beacuse if he won the election this should show that we're better than that, that race isn't such a big deal and whether your an african american, asian, white, european, etc. we're all human beings that deserve equal rights and respect. The person that created this cartoon should apologize to him.
ReplyDeleteI think that after reading "The Crucible" I gained knowledge. I learned all about the witch-hunts in Salem Massachusetts in 1692. I learned about all the people that were alive then and how some of them reacted to everything going on. It was a good drama to have read.
ReplyDeleteAfter looking and reading over the articles and pictures posted from msnbc, I was shocked at what some people were actually saying. I think that even after The New york Post said sorry that nothing was going to change. The cartoon was already out there and you just cant take it back. The cartoon, in some ways, could be seen as pointed at Obama, and in others, not at all. Its just the way you were reading it. The cartoon was to make people laugh and not for people to take too seriously.
Danielle Leon
P-1
When I first started to read the drama of "The Crucible" i thought that this would just be a boring story about some old counrty and about religion. but the story intrigued me, and I am surprised to say that i enjoed it! The story got interesting after act 2 and I enjoyed reading all of it. Although im not sure if I learned too much from it, except that it was a pretty good story, and about how people thought that witches were actually running around attacking people with their "spirits".
ReplyDeleteMy reaction to the cartoon in the newspaper is that the cartoon does not seem to me like it is discriminating against blacks. It would not make sesnse for such a huge newspaper would just post something racial against all blacks or Barrack Obama. If they are, I wouldnt know why they would take such a risk as to maybe getting sued or anything on that type of page. If they actually meant harm by this cartoon i think that they should send out an apology and end it there.
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ReplyDeleteI have had some previous knowledge on the Salem witch trials, but after reading the Crucible my interest in such literature has risen. I feel that by reading the drama in class and at home my enforced analysis skills enable me to more actively be involved in any reading for better interpretation and understanding.
ReplyDeleteRealting to the article about the Obama cartoon, there should be no reason why a cartoon like that should be published. If it in fact had a direct relation to Obama and African Americans, it takes it to a new level of racism. Altough the New York Times apologized, that cartoon should not have been published.
Jose Maldonado Period 1
ReplyDeleteBefore reading “The Crucible,” I must admit that I had known little about the Salem Witch Trials. Now, after completing the reading of “The Crucible,” I have a surfeit of knowledge about what really took place. Throughout the whole drama, I was interested to see how things turned out, making mental notes that one should never lie because once one does, one will begin to live in a web of lies. Even though Thomas Worthington, from first period, didn’t enjoy reading “The Crucible,” I would have to agree with him on the part that reading this piece of writing helped one understand the concept of themes and tones better.
ReplyDeleteThe articles, “Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp” and “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” are something that I found quite interesting. I agree with Alma, stating that people should be more careful with what they joke about. I do believe that The New York Post did not mean anything bad about this editorial cartoon; however people always take things out concept. One can see how such people like Al Sharpton, a 2004 black-presidential candidate, would take offense from this. You may see the connection of the cartoon with President Obama, by stating, “They’ll have to find someone else to write the next stimulus bill” relating the chimp to Obama. I feel that The New York Post’s apology was well stated and was much needed to calm down all of the protesters.
-Ashley Fuchs
Period 4
The Crucible was a very good drama. I liked reading how Author Miller had reseached the information about the Salem Witch Trils. I personally did not like some parts of the play like how the accused the people of doing witch craft. It was a good story when Miller had used ironey through out the story. It was that kind of story that you wanted to know what will happen next.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the aritcles, "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon" and "Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp", that the New York Post is apologizing for a cartoon that critics say links President Barack Obama to a raging chimpanzee shot dead by police in Connecticut. They were mocking the economic stimulus bill.
Matthew Ramkissoon
Per-3
The crucible was an interesting story which i enjoyed reading. From the crucible, I learned the dangers of lust, jealousy, and lies.As abigail used lies aginats the people of salem, i realized how harmful rumors can be It was also a great achronism for the mycarthy era, and gave me a more vivid understanding of blacklisting.
ReplyDeleteThough the political cartoon is controversial, this is a prime example of the banes of political correctness. The general public id focusing too much on minute details while forsaking the min issue, the stimulus bill. People like rev. Shaprton enjoy making problems out of nothing just to strike up contreversie. This objection is just another impediment to the free creative and intellectual thought of an artist, In a time where media outlets find themselves under the microscope of public opinion,i know that the NYP whould not have released the cartoon if they in any way suspected it to be racist. This is just another example of how political correctness has grown out of hand from the way it should be. This ma be the only time ever defend a publication of the Murdoch empire, but in order to have a true free functioning democracy, we must be able to face the big picture and not pick on any example of political correctness.
The Crucible is a very intresting story it coutivated me. I found it facinating to learn about such differents belives as mine. this story showed me that when a person is selfish and wants something they can go to an extream of taking peoples lifes and sacrificing others for the wellness of themselves. Now for the article and the cartoon i belive its incredible that a racist attempt is apering in such an advance time in America. The fact that they apologize did not convince me, instead of saying sorry why didnt they think about it before publishing it. I agree with paulina, the author should have kept his felings togards our president for himself.
ReplyDeleteLaura Caleron
Perdiod 3
I believe the Crucible has taught me alot. It didn't teach me so much factual information but more on how to deduce themes within a play and analyze symbolizism. The articles, “Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp” and “Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon” proved to be very controversial. I understand how people can take offense to this and I belive the apology was needed. However I don't believe the New York Post ment any harm by it. The cartoon caused alot of debate and I think people should think twice about what they are about to post.
ReplyDeleteMichael Rufrano
Period 1
From reading "The Crucible" I have learned many things about hysteria, McCarthyism and The Salem Witch Trials. The play showed clear paralellism with the McCarthyism that took place during the 1950's. I now have much knowledge regarding the topic of both The Salem Witch Trials and McCarthyism. "The Crucible" has taught me how people can conform to the evils of society very quickly if they feel threatened. This theme, known as hysteria, is a major one in the play. Overall, I believe that this play was very constructive in shaping my literary knowledge as well as my historical knowledge of past events.
ReplyDeleteMorgan Stewart
Period 4
I said at the beginning of the semester that I did not like “The Crucible” and I stand by it. Not only is the “Drama” rather simple and predictable, but also, it is boring and plain with undemanding, basic and trouble-free themes not to mention a monotonous tone. I am usually a pretty good reader and if I find an interesting book I can read it in hours, however, I struggled reading this book, I would easily fall asleep or my mind would simply wander off. In the ninth grade I read “Death of a salesmen,” the book, while more interesting, it was also dull and I can barely remember it; and so it is safe to assume that the writing of Arthur Miller is not one that I enjoy.
ReplyDeleteAbout the cartoon I can only say that it is like an abstract painting, as any satirical cartoon, open to interpretation and people, by nature, see what they want to see. Therefore, I can only respectfully refuse to comment on it because I will not collaborate in a baseless argument. I will say that anyone who takes offense at something open to interpretation is fairly paranoid and pessimistic.
About other people’s comment I will say that I am happy for those of you who enjoyed the play, it seemed like a lot more people than I thought. I will also add that, although I am not very good at grammar and spelling, people should pay a little bit more attention to the capitalization of “I’s.”
Nicolas Santacruz
Period 4
The crucible was a good drama. i like the way it is and how Miller post the irony and hypocrasy in the story. but i dont like when they accussed inocent people and kill them for no reason. the piece of article "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon" and "Cartoon said to link Obama to dead chimp", that the New York Post, is an apologieg for a cartoon that critics say links President Barack Obama to a raging chimpanzee shot dead by police in Connecticut. They were mocking the economic stimulus bill.
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ReplyDeleteThe Crucible is a very interesting story. I found it very interesting to learn about different beliefs than mine. This story showed me that when a person is selfish and really wants something, they can go to a gre4at amount of trouble of taking peoples lives and sacrificing others for the wellness of themselves. For the article and the cartoon i believe its amazing that a racist attempt is appearing in such a time in America. The fact that they apologize did not convince me enough, instead of saying sorry why didn't they think about it before publishing it.
ReplyDeleteAfter completing a basic analytical study of the drama, “The Crucible”, I feel that I have a better understanding of the tragedy that took place in the Salem Witch Trials. The knowledge I acquired I will most likely internalize for use as a literature reference for an SAT essay. As Jonathon Lenett mentioned in his blog, I agree that the drama was much more interesting, and hooked me into it much faster because it is in fact nonfiction. Before reading “The Crucible” I had no knowledge on the Salem witch trials, but now I am well informed surrounding that sad moment in history.
ReplyDeleteIn regards to the cartoon "Post sorry for controversial chimp cartoon", I completely disagree with everyone so far. I in no way believe the New York Post; one of the most respected newspapers in America would "put out a threat to his (Obama's) death." That is pure ludicrous that the paper would have the gall to even insinuate that or imply that blacks and Obama are chimpanzee's. Honestly even if they (the Post) were racist; no one would be stupid enough to be so blunt about it or even make reference to it. All it was a broad attempt to criticize the stimulus package saying that even monkey's could do it. There were no underlying racist tones to that cartoon. All you need is a bit of common sense to see that.
Martin Perry
Period 4
After reading “The Crucible”, I feel that I have acquired some knowledge that I will keep with me. One piece of knowledge is that no matter the situation, telling the truth is the only option and lies will get you nowhere. I also learned about hidden ironies that some authors like to embed in their piece of writing. Arthur Miller used many ironies throughout the play and it made the plot a lot more interesting than it would have been without it.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading the article and looking at the editorial cartoon, I feel that people overreacted and dealt with the situation incorrectly. They immediately related the monkey to President Obama and didn’t try to analyze or relate it to any current events. I can see how this cartoon obviously relates to the monkey that was shot earlier this week. A columnist of the Post described the cartoon as suggesting that the “stimulus bill was so bad, monkeys may as well have written it.” I can see how this columnist interpreted the cartoon in this manner. I would have to agree with this interpretation rather than the other which states that the illustrator of the cartoon is racist. It just doesn’t make any sense.
~Krystal Taveras
Period 4
I had heard about "The Crucible" through many of my peers and SAT mentors, and learned that it is essential to the development of a strong vocabulary, and could greatly aid in the essay and reading portions of the SAT test. I feel very grateful and knowledgeable after completing this classic, and look forward to applying the vocabulary and the analyzing techniques I have learned. I feel "The Crucible" was very well written, with enough details to form mental images but not so intricately to the point where the story became monotonous. The literary techniques were also used widely, some in discrete ways that affect the reader subliminally. I personally disagree with Brandon S. when he states that the story "dragged on", as I believe the play was extremely lively and lived up to its expectations .
ReplyDeleteAs a response to the article and the editorial cartoon, I strongly agree with Krystal Taveras. The picture was taken out of context and the reactions of many were exaggerated. However, the second website provided Al Sharpton makes a strong case when he says, "troubling at best given the historic racist attacks of African-Americans as being synonymous with monkeys.". This scandal may have possibly been controlled if the historic remarks of African-Americans resembling monkeys, would not have been so worldly acknowledged. The New York Post probably did not do this with a racist thought in mind, but they must be more careful when making public images and think about its possible consequences.
-Daniela Gonzalez-Jatar
Period 4
The Story the crucible was a great drama and cept me occupied for a while. The crucible wasnt that bad it was suspenseful and ironic the whole time but in the end I think it really cme together and hit a homerun. But i got to say the best part was the end and the fact that i didnt have to read it any more. The end was also good because of the fact that John Proctor died. Not that i wanted him to die, but if he wouldnt have died it wouldnt have been as good.
ReplyDeleteThe student who left the comment above is in Period 3
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