English Literature Học phần năm 4 học kỳ 1 - ĐHNN - ĐHĐN Cung cấp những kiến thức tổng hợp về miêu tả các nhân vật và nghị luận các tác phẩm văn
Trang 1Summary
"David Copperfield" is a semi-autobiographical novel by Charles Dickens The story follows the life of the titular character, David Copperfield, from his birth to adulthood David faces various challenges and hardships, including the death of his mother, the cruelty of his stepfather, Mr Murdstone, and the struggles of his early years.As David grows older, he experiences love, friendship, and betrayal The novel introduces a cast of memorable characters, including the eccentric Mr Micawber and the kind-hearted Peggotty David's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience as he navigates the complexities of Victorian society.
Throughout the narrative, Dickens addresses social issues such as class
disparities, the harsh treatment of children, and the flaws within the legal system The novel remains a classic example of Victorian literature, capturing the essence of the era while providing timeless insights into the complexities of life and human relationships.
Figurative language ( phép tu từ + tính nghệ thuật)
"David Copperfield" by Charles Dickens is a literary tapestry woven with an array of figurative language that enriches the narrative and captivates the reader Dickens, a master of vivid description, employs various literarydevices to breathe life into his characters and settings.Throughout the novel, similes and metaphors abound, painting scenes with colors of imagination Characters are not merely individuals but metaphors for societal issues, their names often revealing deeper truths For instance, the character Uriah Heep embodies the deceitful and obsequious, his very name echoing his duplicitous nature.Dickens's use of personification brings inanimate objects and nature to life, infusing them with human qualities The author's adept use of symbolism enhances the depth of the narrative The ebb and flow of David's fortunes mirror the societal struggles of the time Nameslike Mr Micawber have become synonymous with certain traits, transcending their literal meanings to become symbols in their own right.Dickens's language is a symphony, with the rhythm of alliteration creating a melodicundertone
4.2.Complexities of love and relationships (Hoai)
The novel also explores the complexities of love and relationships, eliciting a range of emotions from the reader From the innocent and pure love of characters like Peggotty to the tumultuous and passionate
relationships that David experiences, the novel delves into the intricate nuances of human connections The joysof friendship, the pains of betrayal, and the redemptive power of love contribute to a tapestry of emotions that resonate on a personal level.
4.3.Nostalgia and reflection (Trang)
Trang 2There's a pervasive theme of nostalgia and reflection as David recounts his life The novel captures the
bittersweet emotions of looking back on one's past, with moments of joy and sorrow interwoven into the fabric of memory This reflection adds a poignant and introspective element to the narrative, inviting readers to connect with the universal experience of reminiscing about one's own journey.
4.4.A sense of social consciousness (Thao)
Dickens infuses a sense of social consciousness into the novel, addressing issues such as class disparity and the mistreatment of children The reader may feel a mixture of empathy and indignation, as the characters navigate a society marked by injustice and inequality These social commentaries heighten the emotional impact of the novel, fostering a sense of awareness and reflection on the world beyond the pages.
About David ‘s life and opinion
David begins his life as a boy born into a lower-middle-class family He faces early hardships, including the death of his father and the cruel treatment by his stepfather, Mr Murdstone Despite these adversities, David's resilient spirit and determination shape his journey His relationships with various characters, such as Peggotty, Mr Micawber, and Agnes, contribute to his emotional and intellectual development.As David matures, he undergoes a series of transformations He navigates the complexities of love, experiencing both heartbreak and enduring affection His career path reflects the societal challenges of the time, ranging from working in a factory to pursuing a career in writing
Through David's observations and experiences, Dickens critiques the societal norms and injustices of the time The novel addresses issues such as class distinctions, the mistreatment of children, and the inadequacies of the legal system Besides,David's narrative is characterized by self-reflection and maturation He gains insight into his own flaws and acknowledges the impact of his decisions on those around him.
ĐỀ 1: Some people say literature reflects the society, its good values and its ills Others,however, comment that great literature is more than a mere reflection of the society
The role of literature in society has been a subject of debate for centuries Some argue that literature primarily serves as a reflection of society, capturing its virtues and ills Others contend that great literature transcends mere reflection and serves as a vehicle for deeper exploration of the human condition This essay will examine this view through the lens of five British literary works: "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity." These works will help us explore the complex interplay between literature and society, shedding light on the idea that literature is more than just a mirror.
Literature as a Reflection of Society
One of the fundamental functions of literature is to mirror society and its values William Shakespeare's
"Hamlet" is a quintessential example of how literature reflects the moral and political complexities of a society Set in the Danish kingdom of Elsinore, the play explores themes such as revenge, madness, and political
intrigue Through the character of Hamlet, we witness a society plagued by deceit and treachery, which echoes the political uncertainties of Shakespeare's own time.
William Wordsworth's poem "The Daffodils" reflects the Romantic era's reverence for nature and its beauty The poem captures the essence of the English countryside, celebrating the tranquility and harmony of the natural world Wordsworth's work reflects the Romantic movement's emphasis on the sublime in nature, mirroring the society's growing fascination with the natural world.
Great Literature as More Than Reflection
While literature certainly reflects society, it also transcends this role by offering profound insights and engagingreaders in a deeper exploration of the human experience Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield" is not merely a reflection of Victorian England but a vivid exploration of the human spirit and resilience in the face of
adversity Through David's journey from childhood to adulthood, Dickens delves into themes of social
injustice, personal growth, and the triumph of the human spirit The novel serves as a mirror of its time but also transcends it, offering universal lessons about resilience and self-discovery.
In W Somerset Maugham's "The Moon and Sixpence," the character of Charles Strickland represents an exploration of the unconventional artist's psyche Strickland's relentless pursuit of art at the expense of social norms challenges the boundaries of societal expectations and artistic freedom The novel goes beyond reflectionto delve into the complexities of creativity, individualism, and the sacrifices made for art.
Trang 3Mary Robinson's "Fair Vanity" similarly moves beyond mere reflection by delving into the consequences of vanity and superficiality Through the character of Louisa, the story explores the human struggle with self-image and societal pressures It serves as a critique of societal shallowness but also prompts readers to reflect on their own values and priorities.
In conclusion, British literature, as exemplified by "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity," is a multifaceted art form While it does reflect society, its values, and its ills, great literature goes beyond this role It offers a deeper exploration of the human experience, challenges societal norms, and invites readers to ponder universal truths These literary works, by transcending mere reflection, continue to be sources of inspiration, enlightenment, and transformation for generations of readers They remind us that literature is not just a mirror; it is a dynamic force that engages us in profound
contemplation of the world and ourselves.
ĐỀ 2: Reading literature transports us out of our current context and into other ages andplaces Great works of literature train the mind to be flexible, enabling us to see the worldthrough the eyes of others
British literature has produced an abundance of timeless classics that serve as portals to other ages and places These literary masterpieces enable readers to transcend the boundaries of their current context, encouraging them to explore different eras, cultures, and viewpoints In this essay, we will examine the transformative power of British literature through five diverse works: "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity." These works demonstrate how great literature, by training the mind to be flexible, allows us to see the world through the eyes of others and embark on journeys of imagination.
Transporting Through Time and Place
Shakespeare's "Hamlet," set in the Danish kingdom of Elsinore, transports us to the 16th century Through the troubled mind of Prince Hamlet, we explore themes of revenge, madness, and existential questioning The play immerses us in a world of royal intrigue and moral dilemmas, offering a glimpse into the complexities of Renaissance-era Denmark.
On the other hand, William Wordsworth's poem "The Daffodils" sweeps readers into the natural beauty of the English countryside during the Romantic era Wordsworth's vivid descriptions of a field of dancing daffodils evoke the sensory experience of being in that tranquil landscape, allowing us to time-travel to a moment of pureawe and wonder.
Meeting Characters and Experiencing Their World
Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield" introduces us to a rich tapestry of characters inhabiting 19th-century England Through the eyes of the titular character, we witness the social inequalities, child labor, and personal struggles of the era We become participants in David's life journey, experiencing his joys and sorrows, and gaining insight into the society in which he lives.
In W Somerset Maugham's "The Moon and Sixpence," readers are transported to the early 20th century and theexotic locales of Paris and Tahiti The novel follows the unconventional artist Charles Strickland, and through his eyes, we explore the world of bohemian artistry and the sacrifices one makes for creative expression.Perceiving Truth and Shaping Perspective
Mary Robinson's "Fair Vanity" delves into the consequences of vanity and superficiality in the society of its time The story's protagonist, Louisa, becomes ensnared by the pursuit of beauty and wealth, leading to her moral decay Through Louisa's downfall, we perceive truths about the shallowness of a life focused solely on appearances, challenging our own perspectives on what truly matters.
In conclusion, British literature, as exemplified by "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity," serves as a vehicle that transports readers to other ages and places, allowing them to meet characters, experience their worlds, and perceive truths These literary works train the mind to be flexible, enabling readers to see the world through the eyes of others, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the human experience British literature, with its rich tapestry of narratives and perspectives, continues to be a source of inspiration, enlightenment, and transformation for generations of
Trang 4readers Through these literary journeys, we not only gain insights into the past but also develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of the world in which we live.
ĐỀ 3: Reading great literature exercises our imagination Great works of literature enableus to meet characters and to live in their world, to experience their joys and sorrows, toperceive truth, and make value judgement.
British literature has produced a wealth of timeless classics that have the power to exercise our imagination and transport us into the worlds of its characters In this essay, we will delve into five diverse works of British literature— "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity"—todemonstrate how great literature enables us to meet characters, experience their emotions, perceive truth, and make value judgments These literary masterpieces offer unique perspectives and engage the reader's
imagination in various ways.
Meeting Characters and Experiencing Their World
Shakespeare's "Hamlet" introduces us to one of the most iconic characters in literary history, Prince Hamlet Through his soliloquies and internal struggles, we delve deep into the mind of a complex and tormented protagonist We become participants in Hamlet's world, sharing in his grief, anger, and existential questioning The play's rich character development and intricate plot invite us to ponder the depths of human psychology and the consequences of revenge.
Wordsworth's "The Daffodils" offers a contrasting yet equally immersive experience Through the eyes of the poet, we encounter a field of dancing daffodils, and we are transported to the serene and picturesque English countryside Wordsworth's vivid descriptions evoke the sensory experience of being surrounded by nature's beauty, allowing us to share in the poet's profound sense of awe and joy.
Perceiving Truth and Making Value Judgments
Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield" is a bildungsroman that takes us on a journey through the life of the titular character As we follow David's growth from childhood to adulthood, we witness the complexities of Victorian society, including the stark realities of child labor and poverty Through David's experiences, we perceive the truths of social injustice and inequality, compelling us to make value judgments about the society in which he lives.
Somerset Maugham's "The Moon and Sixpence" introduces us to the enigmatic character of Charles Strickland, a man who abandons conventional life to pursue his passion for art As we delve into Strickland's world of artistic obsession, we grapple with questions about the nature of creativity and the sacrifices one must make for artistic expression The novel challenges us to make value judgments about the pursuit of personal passion versus societal norms.
"Fair Vanity," a lesser-known work by Mary Robinson, explores the consequences of superficiality and vanity in society The story follows the character of Louisa, who becomes enamored with the pursuit of beauty and wealth As we witness Louisa's descent into shallowness and moral decay, we are prompted to perceive the truths about the emptiness of a life solely focused on appearances, forcing us to make value judgments about the importance of inner character.
In British literature, as exemplified by "Hamlet," "The Daffodils," "David Copperfield," "The Moon and Sixpence," and "Fair Vanity," we find a rich tapestry of characters and narratives that engage our imagination, enable us to experience their joys and sorrows, and encourage us to perceive truth and make value judgments These works not only entertain but also enlighten, offering insights into the human condition and the
complexities of society Through the power of storytelling, British literature continues to exercise our imagination and inspire critical thinking, proving its enduring relevance in our lives.
Great literature has the power to transport us into different worlds and immerse us inthe lives of its characters It exercises our imagination, allowing us to explore newperspectives, experiences, and emotions Through the works of different eras, such asWilliam Shakespeare's Hamlet, Wordsworth's The Daffodils, Charles Dickens's DavidCopperfield, and Somerset Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence, this essay will delve intohow literature enables us to meet characters, experience their joys and sorrows,
perceive truth, and make value judgments These works span across different periods,
Trang 5showcasing the enduring impact of literature on our psyche.
Renaissance (Thời kỳ phục hưng)Hamlet – Prince of Denmark (1600)William Shakespeare
ĐẮM CHÌM VÀO THẾ GIỚI NỘI TÂM NHÂN VẬT
As the protagonist of the play “Hamlet – Prince of Denmark” by William Shakespeare,Hamlet undergoes a profound inner struggle, contemplating the nature of life, death, andmorality Through his soliloquies, Hamlet invites readers to share in his thoughts and
emotions For instance, in the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy, Hamlet ponders the
meaning of existence and the merits of action versus inaction This introspectiveexploration of human experience prompts readers to reflect on their own lives andconsider philosophical questions.
‘To be, or not to be, that is the question:Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to sufferThe slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,Or to take arms against a sea of troublesAnd by opposing end them To die—to sleep,No more; and by a sleep to say we end
The heart-ache and the thousand natural shocksThat flesh is heir to: 'tis a consummation
Devoutly to be wish'd To die, to sleep;…”
Moreover, the play provides a compelling portrait of the consequences of deceit andbetrayal The character of Claudius, who usurps the throne and marries Hamlet's mother,Gertrude, represents the corrupting influence of power Claudius's actions not only leadto the murder of the rightful king, but also bring about a chain of tragic events The playdelves into the psychological and emotional ramifications of betrayal, allowing readersto empathize with the characters' experiences of sorrow, anger, and guilt This
exploration of the human condition encourages readers to critically analyze the actionsand motives of the characters and consider the ethical implications of their choices.
Romanticism (Lãng mạn)The Daffodils (1804)
"I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills.”
By employing this simile, Wordsworth creates a vivid image of the speaker's solitarystate, setting the stage for a transformative encounter with nature As the speaker's gazelands on a field of daffodils, they are struck by the sheer abundance and beauty of the
flowers, describing them as "a crowd, / A host, of golden daffodils." These vivid
descriptions allow readers to visualize the abundance of nature's beauty, engaging theimagination and stimulating a sense of wonder Through this work, Wordsworth conveysthe idea that a connection with nature can bring immense joy and stir the deepest
emotions within us, enabling us to perceive profound truths about the world and ourplace in it.
Critical realism (Hiện thực phê phán)David Copperfield (1850)
Charles Dickens
Trang 6 NHÂN VẬT, TÍNH CÁCH, THÂN PHẬN CON NGƯỜI
In "David Copperfield", each character is meticulously drawn by Dickens, portraying arange of personalities, motivations, and moral dilemmas For instance, the character ofUriah Heep, a symbol of cunning and deceit, highlights the impact of dishonesty andmanipulation in society The novel explores themes such as love, loss, resilience, and thepursuit of identity One of the most memorable lines that encapsulates this exploration is
David Copperfield's reflection on the pain of unrequited love: "Of all the creatures in theworld, I believe a girl in love with a man [ ] is the most determined to be unhappy"
(Dickens 629) This poignant observation highlights the emotional intensity anduniversal human struggle of unfulfilled desires.
poignant reflection on this conflict can be found in the following lines: "If you want tomake a success of life you must know what you want and make up your mind to get it.You mustn't be sidetracked Distinctions are odious" (Maugham 30) The pursuit of truthand personal fulfillment often requires breaking away from societal expectations andembracing the consequences By exposing readers to these moral dilemmas, "The Moonand Sixpence" challenges them to reflect on their own values and make judgments aboutthe nature of art, personal sacrifices, and the pursuit of passion.
In conclusion, above works are prime examples of great literature that exercises ourimagination, enables us to connect with characters, perceive truth, and make valuejudgments By engaging with these works, we broaden our understanding of the humanexperience, cultivate empathy, and develop critical thinking skills It is through theseencounters with great literature that we open our minds to new perspectives, deepenour insights, and ultimately become more well-rounded individuals.