Flipped learning: Existentialism

 

Existentialism 

This blog is part of Flipped learning-bridge course on Existentialism assigned by Dilip sir. Before starting the blog let me introduce you with what is flipped learning.

For Further more information of bridge course visit teacher's blog : Existentialism: Video Resources

What Is flipped learning?

 Flipped learning is like flipping the script on how we usually do things in the classroom. Instead of teachers giving lectures during class time, they provide materials like videos or readings for students to go through before coming to class. This way, students can learn at their own pace and come prepared with questions and ideas.

Then, when students come to class, it's all about getting hands-on and interactive. They might work together in groups, discuss ideas, solve problems, or do experiments. The teacher is there to guide them, answer questions, and help out where needed.

What's cool about flipped learning is that it puts students in the driver's seat of their own learning journey. They're not just sitting and listening; they're actively engaging with the material, thinking critically, and collaborating with their peers.

Plus, flipped learning is super flexible. Students can review the materials as many times as they need to really understand them, and teachers can tailor activities to suit different learning styles and needs.

Oh, and technology? It's a big part of flipped learning, but it's not just about watching videos. Teachers might use all sorts of tech tools to make learning fun and engaging, like interactive games, online discussions, or virtual simulations.

Overall, flipped learning is all about making learning more hands-on, interactive, and personalized. 

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Thoughts that i like in the Video.

Video:1

The first video talks about existentialism, which is all about individuality, passion, and freedom. It suggests that our sense of existence revolves around these three things. Existentialism opposes the idea of philosophical suicide, which means giving up on finding meaning in life. Instead, it encourages embracing individuality, passion, and freedom to find purpose and fulfillment.

Video:2

In the myth of Sisyphus, Albert Camus delves into the concept of absurdity, suggesting that life lacks inherent meaning. He mentions the movie 'Stay' as an example of existentialism, where suicide seems like the only escape from life's absurdity. However, Camus argues that suicide isn't the answer; instead, we must embrace the meaninglessness of life and keep living. He emphasizes that thinking leads us to recognize life's absurdity, but philosophical suicide isn't the only option.

Regarding the three beliefs, absence of hope, rejection, and conscious dissatisfaction can collectively lead to philosophical death. In simpler terms, when you lose hope, reject possibilities, and constantly feel dissatisfied with life, it's like experiencing a philosophical death.

Video:3

In The third video i like that it discusses intriguing ideas like how suicide and God change as people do, and it emphasizes the importance of taking leaps in life. It delves into the concept of philosophical suicide, which occurs when people escape the absurdity of life through methods like losing hope, rejecting possibilities, and feeling constantly dissatisfied. This philosophical suicide stems from human desires and should not be mistaken for despair or immature unrest.

Video:4

The thoughts i liked in Fourth Video is The contrasts Dadaism and Existentialism. Dadaism questions traditional values, while Existentialism focuses on self-awareness. Nietzsche saw Dadaists as creators rather than rebels. Dadaism and Nihilism share a rejection of imposed values, emphasizing the need for individuals to create their own meaningful values. Both movements prioritize creation and reject externally imposed values.

Video:5

In the  fifth video i am impressed by how it  the highlights the importance of making our own choices and taking responsibility for them, including the consequences. Existentialism is seen as a response to the feeling of emptiness, and the absurd is seen as a rebellion against the status quo. While life may seem filled with anxiety and despair, existentialism reminds us that we have the freedom to choose our paths. It's not about escaping when things go wrong but facing them head-on. Existentialism isn't gloomy; it emerged after World War II when people sought meaning in a world filled with despair. It's about embracing individuality without becoming self-absorbed.

Video: 6

In The sixth video i like that it discusses Nihilism and Existentialism. Nihilism is portrayed as the loss of individuality, often leading to the temptation of suicide, whereas Existentialism emphasizes creating meaning in life. Existentialism focuses on subjective experiences like individuality and the absurdity of life, while Nihilism views everything as illusory and objective.

Video:7

The seventh video i am impressed by exploretion of the human condition, asking questions like why we are here and how we should live. These questions lead to the realization of absurdity, rejecting overarching systems. It emphasizes the need for a human perspective rather than a divine one. Nietzsche's idea of becoming who you are involves creating meaning, purpose, and value for oneself. Existentialism delves into questions of existence, considering life from religious, scientific, and philosophical viewpoints, and raising inquiries about human existence.

Video:9

In the ninth video i liked that, Eric Dodson explains that existentialism is a way of life that helps us deeply understand life. It encourages honesty by accepting our faults and abilities. Existentialism is broad, allowing us to explore the deeper meaning of life not only with our minds but also with our hearts, which is called existential sensibility. This means that just as our minds seek to understand life's meaning, our hearts also seek to enjoy and experience it.

Existentialism helps us grasp our surroundings better, providing both intellectual depth and acceptance. It's about honestly facing life's absurdities and accepting them. Additionally, it naturally encourages a rebellious way of thinking.

Video:10

In the last Video i am impressed by The concept presented which suggests that our choices are either reasoned by us or simply exist as choices without inherent meaning. Similarly, it proposes that life itself lacks inherent meaning, but we imbue it with significance through our actions and interpretations.

Learning outcome

The learning outcomes of this flipped learning experience is that its

develops a deeper understanding of existential themes, including the absurdity of life, the rejection of overarching systems, and the concept of creating meaning and purpose for oneself.

Through exploring existential questions from religious, scientific, and philosophical viewpoints, students will enhance their critical thinking skills by analyzing and evaluating different perspectives on human existence. By engaging with concepts such as Nietzsche's idea of "becoming who you are," students will develop an appreciation for philosophical ideas and their relevance to their own lives and society. This encouraged to reflect on our own beliefs, values, and perspectives in light of the existential themes discussed, fostering self-awareness and introspection.

 

The exploration of existentialism from religious, scientific, and philosophical viewpoints will encourage students to make connections across different disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding of complex concepts.I had the opportunity to apply my  understanding of existentialism to real-life situations, such as reflecting on personal experiences or analyzing literary or artistic works that explore existential themes.

The Video That I liked The most 

This video really caught my attention because it talked about some big questions that have always fascinated me. It looked at things like why we're here and what the point of life is, which are pretty deep topics. One thing that stood out to me was how it said life can seem kind of crazy and random sometimes, but that doesn't mean we can't find our own meaning in it.

I liked how the video talked about how we don't have to just accept things the way they are – we can actually decide for ourselves what matters and what's important. That idea reminded me of something I've heard before about how we can shape our own futures and become the person we want to be.

Also, I found it interesting how the video looked at these questions from different angles – like from religious, scientific, and philosophical points of view. It made me realize that there are lots of ways to think about these things, and it's cool to explore them all. Overall, it was a really thought-provoking video that got me thinking about life in a whole new way.

Thank you...

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Hello everyone, This blog is thinking activity given by Dilip Sir on the Novel "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Here i am going to discuss the topic of critical percepactive of the novel, but before that let introduce you with "The Great Gatsby" Novel.

The Great Gatsby 

"The Great Gatsby" is like peeking through a window into the lives of people who are trying to find themselves in the whirlwind of the 1920s. At the center is Jay Gatsby, a man with a heart full of dreams and a pocket full of wealth. He throws these lavish parties not just for the sake of it, but in hopes of catching the attention of Daisy Buchanan, the one who got away. Daisy, on the other hand, is caught between the comfort of her current life with Tom and the memories of her past with Gatsby. And then there's Nick Carraway, the newcomer to this world, trying to make sense of it all.

In this story, we see people chasing after happiness, love, and identity, only to find that these things are more elusive than they imagined. Gatsby's mansion and extravagant parties may dazzle on the outside, but inside, he's just a man yearning for a love that feels like home. Daisy may seem to have it all, but beneath her glamorous facade lies a woman torn between her heart and her societal obligations. And Nick, well, he's the everyman caught up in the drama, trying to navigate through the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery.

Through their trials and tribulations, we're reminded that beneath the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age, people are just that—people, with hopes and fears, dreams and disappointments. "The Great Gatsby" isn't just a story about the Roaring Twenties; it's a timeless tale about the human condition, the pursuit of happiness, and the price we're willing to pay for it.

Critical Perspectives:

Feminist perspective:

 American literature, primarily written in the English language, is a significant part of the United States and its colonies. F. Scott Fitzgerald, a renowned American writer, is considered one of the greatest of the 20th century. His works include The Great Gatsby, This Side of Paradise, The Beautiful and Damned, Tender Is the Night, and The Love of the Last Tycoon. Fitzgerald also wrote numerous short stories, often addressing themes of youth, promise, and age.

The Great Gatsby is a tale of luxury, lust, and deceit, set in the 1920s New York City. Nick Carraway, a young writer, lives next door to the mysterious Jay Gatsby, owner of a lavish mansion and host of frequent parties. As Nick spends more time with Gatsby, he learns about his past, strange profession, and love for his cousin, Daisy. Daisy and Gatsby's affair turns into a scandal, and Daisy chooses Tom to leave town. The novel highlights the scandalous and risky nature of the 1920s, and the relevance of feminism in society.

The Great Gatsby is a novel that explores the stereotypes and expectations of women in the 1920s. Women are often depicted as 'girls' and property for men, based on appearance and charm. The characters, including Daisy Buchanan, Jordan Baker, and Myrtle Wilson, are all versions of the New Woman, reflecting the flapper culture of the time. However, women are not always shown in a positive light, and are often seen as negative things. Daisy, for example, is bought like a piece of property in an economic transaction, marrying Tom Buchanan, a misogynist and patriarch, rather than waiting for Jay Gatsby, her true, but poor former love. Gatsby, a suspected criminal, moves to Long Island to buy Daisy back his wealth, contradicting the feminist ideal of women being able to provide for themselves. Daisy and Myrtle Wilson, both dependent and attracted to Tom Buchanan, are also examples of females as property in the novel.

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Marxist perspective:

In "The Great Gatsby," some folks look at the story from a viewpoint called Marxism. It's like looking at how people are treated in society, especially based on their money and jobs. So, when they read Gatsby's tale, they see a big gap between rich folks like Tom and Daisy, and regular workers like George.

They notice that the rich characters seem to care more about themselves than the struggles of those with less money. Like Tom and Daisy—they're kinda selfish and don't seem to care much about how their actions hurt others. It's like they think they're better just because they have more money.

Then, there's this idea that people might get tricked into believing that being rich will solve all their problems. Gatsby, for example, chases after wealth and status, thinking it'll make him happy. But in the end, he realizes it's not all it's cracked up to be.

In the story, relationships also seem to be treated like things you can buy and sell. Like Tom and Daisy—they don't always treat people like they're important. They treat them more like objects.

And even though Gatsby works really hard to move up in society, he never really fits in with the rich crowd. It shows how tough it can be to climb the social ladder when you're not born into wealth.

So, from this perspective, "The Great Gatsby" isn't just a story about love and parties. It's also about how money can mess with people's heads, and how some folks get hurt because of it.

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Conclusion:

In wrapping up our discussion on "The Great Gatsby" from feminist and Marxist viewpoints, it's like we're looking at the story through different glasses, you know?

From a feminist angle, we see how women like Daisy and Myrtle face tough challenges in a world mostly controlled by men. They struggle to find their own voice and freedom in a society where guys hold most of the power.

And from a Marxist perspective, we notice the big gap between the rich and the regular folks. Characters like Tom and Daisy represent the wealthy elite who don't always care about the struggles of the working class, like George.

When we blend these two views together, we get a clearer picture of how power, privilege, and inequality shape the story. It's like peeling back layers to understand the deeper meanings behind the characters' actions and the society they live in.

So, by looking at "The Great Gatsby" from these different angles, we can learn a lot about the way gender, class, and power play out in both the past and the present. It's not just a story about love and parties—it's a window into the complexities of society and human relationships that still resonate with us today.

Thank you...

Movie screening - Vita and Virgina

 Hello everyone, This blog is thinking activity given by vaidehi mam on the movie screening of Vita and Virgina. Here i am going to answer the questions asked by mam in the task but before that let introduce you with Vita and Virgina, on whom this movie is created.

Virginia Woolf 

Virginia Woolf was an important writer from England. She lived from 1882 to 1941. Virginia was born in London and grew up in a family that loved books and art. She became famous for writing in a new and different way called modernism.

Virginia was part of a group called the Bloomsbury Group. They were writers and artists who liked to talk about new ideas. Virginia wrote many novels that people still read today. Some of her famous books are "Mrs. Dalloway," "To the Lighthouse," and "Orlando."

One thing that made Virginia's writing special was how she showed what people were thinking in their minds. It's like she let us listen to their thoughts as they happen. This way of writing is called "stream-of-consciousness."

Virginia also wrote essays. One of her famous essays is called "A Room of One's Own." In this essay, she talked about how important it is for women to have their own space and freedom so they can be creative.

Even though Virginia had some difficult times with her feelings and emotions, she kept writing until she died. Her books and ideas are still important today. People study her work to understand more about literature and about life. Virginia Woolf is remembered as one of the most important writers of the 20th century.

Vita Sackville- west

Vita Sackville-West was a famous writer and gardener from England. She was born on March 9, 1892, in a place called Kent. Vita's family was rich and she had a good education.

She wrote many books and poems about love, nature, and life. One of her famous books is called "The Edwardians," and she also wrote a beautiful poem about the countryside called "The Land."

Besides writing, Vita loved gardening. She made beautiful gardens at her family's home called Sissinghurst Castle. Her gardens were special and many people still visit them today.

Vita had a close friendship with another writer named Virginia Woolf. They wrote letters to each other and spent a lot of time together. Their friendship was important and interesting because it was different from what people expected at that time.

Vita was brave and lived her life in her own way. She was attracted to both men and women, which was not common back then. She showed that it's okay to be different and to follow your heart.

Vita Sackville-West passed away on June 2, 1962, but her writing, gardening, and courage continue to inspire people all over the world.

Relationship Between Vita and Virgina

Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf were close friends who shared a special bond. They met through a group of creative people called the Bloomsbury Group. Vita was a writer and a gardener, while Virginia was a famous author. They spent a lot of time together, talking about books, life, and everything in between.

Their friendship was more than just a regular friendship. They deeply cared for each other and wrote many letters expressing their feelings. Some people believe they were in love, like in a romantic relationship, even though they were both married to men. Their relationship was very different from what most people expected at the time.

Virginia even wrote a book called "Orlando," which is said to be inspired by Vita's life. In the book, the main character changes gender and lives for centuries, just like Vita's adventurous life.

Their friendship had its ups and downs, like any relationship, but it was an important part of both their lives. They supported each other through difficult times and celebrated each other's successes. Even though they are no longer alive, their friendship and the letters they wrote to each other are still talked about and studied today.

Who do you think is initiating the relationship, Vita or Virginia? Who do you think is taking advantage of this relationship? 

Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf were two extraordinary women who became very close friends. Vita, with her bold and adventurous personality, was the one who first showed romantic interest in Virginia. She was drawn to Virginia's intelligence and creativity, seeing something special in her.

Virginia, who was quieter and sometimes struggled with her feelings, found comfort and understanding in Vita's friendship. She appreciated Vita's confidence and the way she seemed to see the world differently.

As for who might be taking advantage, it's not that one person was using the other. Instead, they both found something they needed in each other. Vita felt inspired by Virginia's ideas and writing, while Virginia found support and encouragement from Vita.

Their relationship wasn't always easy. They faced challenges like any friendship does. But through it all, they stuck together, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life.

In the end, Vita and Virginia's friendship was a special bond between two very different but equally remarkable women. They shared their lives, their thoughts, and their dreams, making each other better along the way.

Who do you think is confused about their identity Vita or Virginia? Explain with illustrations.

Imagine Vita as someone with lots of different interests and feelings, like a big box of colorful crayons. Each crayon represents a part of her personality - her adventurous side, her love for writing, her desire to be free. But sometimes, Vita feels like she's not sure which crayon to use or how to put them all together. She wonders if she's supposed to be a certain way or if it's okay to just be herself.

Now, picture Virginia as someone who thinks a lot about things, like a deep, flowing river. She's always pondering questions about herself and the world around her. But sometimes, Virginia feels like she's swimming against the current, struggling to find clarity in her thoughts and emotions. She faces challenges with her mental health, which can make it hard for her to see herself clearly.

Despite their own struggles, Vita and Virginia find comfort in each other's company. They're like two best friends, sharing secrets and supporting each other through tough times. They talk and laugh together, helping each other figure out who they are and where they fit in the world. Their friendship is like a warm blanket on a cold night, giving them strength and comfort as they journey through life together.

What is society’s thought about women and identity? Do you agree with them? If Yes then why? If no then why?

In society, there are ideas about how women should act and who they should be. These ideas have changed over time, but some still stick around.

One idea is that women should behave in certain ways because they're women. For example, they're often expected to take care of the home and family while men go out to work. This idea can affect how women see themselves and what they choose to do with their lives.

Another idea is about how women should look. There's often a lot of focus on being pretty and looking a certain way. This can make women feel like their value depends on how they look, which isn't fair.

Then there's the question of jobs and careers. Some people still think that certain jobs are only for men, while others are for women. This can make it hard for women to pursue their dreams if they don't fit into these old ideas.

And there's also the topic of being a mom. Society sometimes puts a lot of pressure on women to get married and have kids. This can make it seem like that's the only thing women are good for, which isn't true at all.

Now, whether I agree with all of these ideas or not depends on a few things. Personally, I believe that everyone should have the freedom to be themselves and do what makes them happy. I don't think anyone should be told they can't do something just because of their gender.

So, no, I don't agree with all of society's ideas about women and identity. I think women should be able to make their own choices and live their lives in a way that feels right for them, without being held back by outdated beliefs. Everyone deserves that kind of freedom and respect.

Write a note on your observations of the society during that era.

Back when Vita and Virginia were alive, things were a bit different than they are now. People had certain ideas about how men and women should act. Women were mostly expected to take care of the home and family, while men went out to work. But some people, like Vita and Virginia, didn't fit neatly into these boxes. They challenged these ideas and lived their lives on their own terms.

During that time, there were also big changes happening in art and culture. Writers like Virginia Woolf were part of a movement called modernism, which questioned old traditions and explored new ways of thinking about the world.despite the progress, there were still many things people didn't talk about much, like mental health and different kinds of relationships. Virginia struggled with mental illness, and Vita had relationships with both men and women, which was unusual for that time.

There were also big political changes going on, with movements fighting for things like women's rights and independence for countries under colonial rule.verall, it was a time of both challenges and progress. Vita, Virginia, and many others were part of a changing world, pushing bound byaries and questioning the status quo.

 Write a note on the direction of the movie. Which symbols and space caught your attention while watching the movie?

  The way the movie  "Vita and Virginia" was directed made me feel like I was right there with Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf, experiencing their ups and downs.

I loved how the camera captured the beautiful scenery and the cozy interiors where the characters spent their time. It made me feel like I was really there, walking through the English countryside or sitting in Virginia's study.

I noticed how certain things, like the letters exchanged between Vita and Virginia, kept popping up throughout the movie. It felt like these symbols were there to remind us of the deep connection between the two women and the importance of their relationship.

The different settings in the movie helped set the mood for each scene. Vita's grand estate felt luxurious and extravagant, while Virginia's home was more modest and cozy. It was interesting to see how these spaces reflected the personalities of the characters.

The way Vita and Virginia interacted with each other felt so real. You could really sense the chemistry between them, as well as the tension and conflict that sometimes arose. The actors did an amazing job bringing these complex characters to life.

"Vita and Virginia" had to be made into a Bollywood Adaptation, who do you think would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia 

For this question i have Two options that would be fit for the role of Vita and Virginia if the movie "Vita and Virginia" had to be made into Bollywood adaptation.

Rekha ji As "Vita"

As a 90's Superstar Rekhaji is Perfect character for Vita Sackville according to me. The first Name that comes in my mind when i Think about Vita's Character is her. 

Jaya Bachchan as "Virginia"

This is not about the Bollywood adaptation but its about my point of view that whenever i think that who is more alike Vita and Virginia its Them. It would be them in past if someone had decided to made movie on Vita and Virginia 

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as "Vita Sackville West"

Katrina Kaif As " Virginia"

Conclusion 

Looking at Vita Sackville-West and Virginia Woolf's story and the movie "Vita and Virginia," we see a lot about how people think about love, identity, and society.

Back then, people had specific ideas about how women should act and who they should be. But Vita and Virginia didn't fit those ideas perfectly. They challenged the norms of their time and lived their lives in their own way.

"Vita and Virginia" does a great job of showing us their relationship. The way it's filmed makes us feel like we're right there with them, experiencing everything they go through. We see the beautiful places they visit and the intimate moments they share.

 Throughout the movie, there are things that symbolize deeper meanings, like letters or certain settings. These symbols help us understand the story better and feel connected to the characters' emotions.The actors in the movie really bring Vita and Virginia to life. We see how they interact and how their relationship changes over time. It feels real and helps us understand the complexities of their connection.

In the end, Vita and Virginia's story teaches us a lot about love, friendship, and being true to ourselves. Their journey reminds us that it's okay to be different and to challenge the expectations placed on us by society. And "Vita and Virginia" does a fantastic job of bringing their story to life for us to learn from and enjoy.

The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot

This blog based on famous poem "The Waste land" by T.s. Eliot in this blog you can find some Q&A. This task assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir. 

About the Poem

"The Waste Land" is a modernist poem written by T.S. Eliot, first published in 1922. It's considered one of the most important poems of the 20th century. The poem explores themes of disillusionment, fragmentation, spiritual desolation, and the decline of civilization in the aftermath of World War I. It's highly allusive, drawing on a wide range of literary, mythological, and religious sources, and it's known for its complex structure and dense imagery. "The Waste Land" is divided into five sections: "The Burial of the Dead," "A Game of Chess," "The Fire Sermon," "Death by Water," and "What the Thunder Said." It's a challenging but rewarding work that continues to captivate readers with its depth and richness.

"The Waste Land" is noted for its intricate and multi-layered structure, which reflects the fragmented and disillusioned worldview it portrays. Eliot incorporates numerous literary, mythological, and religious allusions throughout the poem, including references to Dante's "Inferno," Shakespeare's "The Tempest," the Grail legend, Hindu scriptures, and more. These references enrich the text and contribute to its complexity.The poem's fragmented structure mirrors the dislocation and disorientation of the modern world. It moves abruptly between different voices, perspectives, and historical periods, reflecting the fractured nature of contemporary experience."The Waste Land" is rich in symbolic imagery, including motifs of water, fertility, death, and rebirth. These symbols often carry multiple layers of meaning and contribute to the poem's thematic depth.The poem explores themes such as spiritual emptiness, cultural decay, the search for meaning, and the possibility of redemption. These themes are woven throughout the poem's various sections and contribute to its overall coherence.Eliot's language is highly poetic and evocative, incorporating elements of free verse, traditional forms, and experimental techniques. His use of imagery, metaphor, and rhythm creates a powerful and immersive reading experience.

Overall, "The Waste Land" is a complex and challenging work that rewards close reading and careful analysis. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the complexities of the human condition and the struggles of the modern world.

1) WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS ON THE FOLLOWING IMAGE AFTER READING 'THE WASTE LAND'? DO YOU THINK THAT ELIOT IS REGRESSIVE AS COMPARED TO NIETZSCHE’S VIEWS? OR HAS ELIOT ACHIEVED UNIVERSALITY OF THOUGHT BY RECALLING MYTHO - HISTORICAL ANSWER TO THE CONTEMPORARY MALAISE?

'The Waste Land' and pondered its themes, I find the image evocative of the fragmented, disillusioned world depicted in Eliot's poem. The juxtaposition of Eliot's perspective with Nietzsche's philosophy is intriguing. While Nietzsche advocates for the individual's pursuit of strength and self-realization, Eliot seems to suggest that such individualism might lead to a deeper sense of fragmentation and alienation.

Eliot's incorporation of mythological and historical references in 'The Waste Land' serves to remind us of the universal human experience across time. In recalling these ancient stories and symbols, Eliot doesn't seem regressive but rather seeks to offer a broader perspective on contemporary malaise. He suggests that the issues of his time are not entirely new but are part of a larger, cyclical pattern of human existence.

In this light, Eliot's work achieves a universality of thought by bridging the gap between the past and the present, offering insights into the human condition that resonate across time and culture. While Nietzsche's ideas may appear more progressive in their emphasis on individual strength, Eliot's exploration of tradition and cultural values adds depth and richness to the discussion of existential themes. Overall, I believe that Eliot's approach in 'The Waste Land' offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of the human experience and the quest for meaning in a fragmented world.

2) PRIOR TO THE SPEECH, GUSTAF HELLSTRÖM OF THE SWEDISH ACADEMY MADE THESE REMARKS:

WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS REGARDING THESE COMMENTS? IS IT TRUE THAT GIVING FREE VENT TO THE REPRESSED 'PRIMITIVE INSTINCT' LEAD US TO HAPPY AND SATISFIED LIFE? OR DO YOU AGREE WITH ELIOT'S VIEW THAT 'SALVATION OF MAN LIES IN THE PRESERVATION OF THE CULTURAL TRADITION'?

In my opinion, Gustaf Hellström's remarks suggesting that giving free vent to repressed primitive instincts leads to a happy and satisfied life resonate with certain truths about human nature. There's a liberating quality to embracing our natural desires and instincts, which can lead to a sense of authenticity and fulfillment. This perspective aligns with the idea that individual freedom and self-expression are crucial for personal happiness.

However, I also find myself agreeing with T.S. Eliot's view that the salvation of humanity lies in the preservation of cultural tradition. Cultural heritage provides a sense of continuity and belonging, grounding us in something greater than ourselves. It offers a framework for understanding our place in the world and provides values and principles that guide our actions.

While embracing our primitive instincts may offer short-term satisfaction, I believe that true fulfillment and happiness come from finding a balance between our innate desires and the values instilled by cultural tradition. By honoring our cultural heritage while also allowing for individual expression, we can navigate life's complexities with greater purpose and meaning. Ultimately, it's the integration of both aspects that leads to a truly satisfying and meaningful life.

Click here to read gustaf hellstrom's Remarks in detailed 

3) WRITE ABOUT ALLUSIONS TO THE INDIAN THOUGHTS IN 'THE WASTE LAND'. (WHERE, HOW AND WHY ARE THE INDIAN THOUGHTS REFERRED?

In T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land," there are several allusions to Indian thoughts and philosophy, particularly through references to Hindu scriptures and mythology. These allusions are scattered throughout the poem, serving various thematic purposes and adding layers of meaning to the work.

One prominent reference to Indian thought occurs in the third section of the poem, "The Fire Sermon." Here, Eliot incorporates elements from the Bhagavad Gita, one of the central texts of Hindu philosophy. The lines "Datta. Dayadhvam. Damyata. / Shantih shantih shantih" are repeated at the end of the section. These words are taken from the Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, and they represent the concepts of giving, compassion, and self-control. By including these Sanskrit phrases, Eliot infuses the poem with a sense of spiritual wisdom and guidance, suggesting that these principles are essential for navigating the wasteland of modern existence.

Additionally, the figure of the Fisher King in "The Waste Land" can be seen as echoing themes found in Indian mythology. The Fisher King is a mythical ruler whose kingdom has been laid to waste, mirroring the desolation depicted throughout the poem. This archetype bears similarities to figures found in Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, where kingship and the restoration of order are central themes.

Furthermore, the use of the concept of "Shantih" (peace) at the end of the poem can be interpreted as a nod to Indian spirituality. The repetition of "Shantih" three times echoes the traditional structure of Hindu prayers, reinforcing the poem's overarching theme of seeking spiritual tranquility amidst the chaos of the modern world.

Click here for reading a Facebook post regarding to Indian reference in the poem

4).IS IT POSSIBLE TO READ 'THE WASTE LAND' AS A PANDEMIC POEM?

Viewing "The Waste Land" through the lens of a pandemic offers a compelling interpretation that resonates with the experiences and emotions evoked by widespread disease outbreaks. Although T.S. Eliot wrote the poem in the early 20th century, its themes of isolation, fragmentation, and existential despair can mirror the feelings of individuals grappling with the challenges of a pandemic.

In "The Waste Land," Eliot paints a bleak portrait of a world in disarray, where societal structures have crumbled, leaving individuals adrift and disconnected. This sense of disintegration and loss of connection parallels the disruptions and isolation experienced during a pandemic, as people grapple with illness, death, and the breakdown of familiar routines.

The poem's imagery of barren landscapes and cycles of death and rebirth can also be interpreted through the lens of a pandemic, reflecting the uncertainty and fear that accompany widespread disease outbreaks. Just as characters in the poem search for meaning amid chaos, individuals facing a pandemic may find themselves grappling with questions of mortality, purpose, and human connection.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, while T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land" was not explicitly written about a pandemic, it can be interpreted through the lens of widespread disease outbreaks to offer poignant insights into the human experience during times of crisis. The themes of isolation, fragmentation, and existential despair depicted in the poem resonate with the challenges faced by individuals grappling with the disruptions and uncertainties of a pandemic. By viewing "The Waste Land" as a pandemic poem, readers can appreciate its relevance to contemporary struggles and gain new perspectives on its timeless themes of loss, renewal, and the search for meaning amid chaos. Ultimately, the poem's enduring power lies in its ability to evoke universal emotions and provoke contemplation across different contexts and historical periods.