In his prologue, the Friar is called a "beggar" with a "scowling face at the Summoner." In the "General Prologue" the Friar is characterized as a "wantowne" and "merye" man who dwells within an assigned region. He has a white neck like a 'lily flower,' and he knows great dalliance and fair speech. He is … Continue reading Intentionality in The Friar’s Tale
classics
A Parody of Greek Mythology In The Peace
As with other comedies by Aristophanes, The Peace ("Eirene"), begins in an ordinary and everyday situation and extends out into the absurd, or the impossible. Like The Wasps, it also features a wealthy gentleman overcome by a unique and ridiculous appearance of a mental disease -he plans to fly up to the gods on a giant … Continue reading A Parody of Greek Mythology In The Peace
Tobit: An Apocryphal Romance
The Book of Tobit can be found in Catholic and other Orthodox biblical texts, however it is not canonical in the Protestant or Hebrew canons. It is considered an apocryphal book. It was announced to be canonical at the Council of Hippo 393, as well as other councils extending into the 16th century. Aramaic and Hebrew copies were found … Continue reading Tobit: An Apocryphal Romance
The Peloponnesian War, Book IV: Armistice and Mounting Losses
Book IV opens with yet another revolt from allies of the Athenians, this time the city of Messana. Syracuse encouraged the revolt to prevent Athens from a clear path to Sicily. Additionally, Athens is again invaded by the Spartans under King Agis, son of Archidamus. Meanwhile an Athenian fleet builds a fort as an outpost … Continue reading The Peloponnesian War, Book IV: Armistice and Mounting Losses
La Chienne
La Chienne (1931) Director: Jean Renoir La Chienne (sometimes called "The Bitch") is the second sound film of the great Jean Renoir's career, son of painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir. It was later remade by Fritz Lang as Scarlet Street in 1945. Michel Simon, the lead actor, is best remembered for his roles in other films: Boudu Saved From Drowning and L'Atalante by Jean Vigo. … Continue reading La Chienne
Napoleon
Napoleon (1927) Director: Abel Gance Abel Gance's magnum opus is the likely behemoth of silent film history. It is a towering epic that looms over silent cinema. Today, it is somewhat difficult to find - the most common version is the result of twenty years of restoration work Kevin Brownlow, to whom silent film owes … Continue reading Napoleon
