Shakespeare Assignment Romeo and Juliet Essay Example

Shakespeare Assignment: Romeo and Juliet Paper Romeo and Juliet is a play of many themes. Like most of Shakespeares plays, it has a main plot with many subtexts, the main plot being related to love and tragedy. The story is set in Verona, Italy in the 16thcentury. It is about two young lovers, each from two different feuding families the Montagues and the Capulets which have a historical hatred for each other. It is a deeply heart-touching tragedy when two star-crossd lovers, who are desperate to be together, are torn apart by a downward spiral of events. From love to hate and from life to death are the themes Shakespeare has based Romeo and Juliet on, as well as the most important one, fate. Fate is used right from the start of the play in chorus. Fate is used a lot in the play, this is because when the play was written people of those times were incredibly superstitious and believed in curses. A pair of star crossd lovers, take their life: right from the beginning the audience knows that two people are destined to meet it is fate, something bad will happen to them. Here Shakespeare is using Greek Mythology, the Greeks they also believed in a lot of fate and star crossed lovers, but here again Shakespeare is being optimistic, he also knows that the Elizabethan audience believe in fate and how once things are destined they happen no matter what. We will write a custom essay sample on Shakespeare Assignment: Romeo and Juliet specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Shakespeare Assignment: Romeo and Juliet specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Shakespeare Assignment: Romeo and Juliet specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Act 3, is right in the middle of the 5 acts that composed the play, containing the climax of the play. It is the pivotal scene. The first two acts build up to the climax and the last two follow down from it. Act 3 is essential to the play as a whole as this is the emotional and action-packed high point of the play, with mixed emotions of love, fate and tragedy. The general contrast of love and hate in the play is very clear in this scene. Shakespeare establishes the setting of this scene through the initial dialogue between Benvolio and Mercutio, using dramatic devices such as metaphors to express the emotions between the characters, and creating a tense atmosphere between them This Scene is very important scene for many reasons; many people talk it about as the turning point in the play. This is due to the incidents and outcomes that occur in the scene. But this is also due to the placing of the scene; its structured in the middle of the five-act play allowing the scene to change the storys events in one scene. This scene is a crucial turning point as feelings explode into an array of hatred and love, when characters personalities shine through and when others lives are cut short. Shakespeare uses fantastic techniques to draw the audience into the play. He uses oxymorons, puns, alliteration and rhyming couplets, which are all used to brilliant effect in Act 3 Scene 1, and help to develop characters, add humour and define feelings. Shakespeare brings feelings like hate and anger to a new un-explored level. Now we set the scene for act 3 scene1, the most crucial scene in the play it drives the play from a humour and comedy to sadness and grief in this scene we learn how the actors actions are influenced and intervened with fate. At this point in the play the audience had already met our leading characters: Romeo, Mercutio, Benvolio and Tybalt. They also have learnt how they react to certain things for example Tybalt; he is always picking a fight for no apparent reason. We also see that how the heat and intensity of the weather is reflected in the characters personality and how it creates tension and causes dramatic effect on the audience. Benvolio and Mercutio are in the town square, the heat is intense, scorching and blistering this already makes the audience feel the tension even before the characters say a word. This is a contrasting setting to the previous scene where Romeo and Juliet are getting married. In this scene the atmosphere is cool, calm and happy. Shakespeare does this is in an attempt to add drama to the scene, Benvolio is aware that a combination of the hot weather and Mercutios hot temperament may lead to trouble with the Capulets. I pray thee, good Mercutio, lets retire: The day is hot, the Capulets are aboard, and, if we meet, we shall not scape a brawl, for now, these hot days, is the mad blood stirring. The language used by Benvolio here is peaceful and he wishes not to argue with Mercutio, but to merely leave and avoid trouble. Mercutio sees this as an opportunity for humorous argument with Benvolio, as he usually does, Come, come, thou art as hot as a jack in thy mood as any in Italy; and as soon moved to be moody, and as soon moody to be moved. The language here is of a comedic and slightly provoking style. Shakespeare uses this type and style and language to indicate to the audience that something dramatic is yet to happen, Romeo and Juliet play is based around the hatred of the Montagues and the Capulets. Hatred is crucial in this play because it is the main theme of the play; hate controls the play and shows the consequences to peoples violent actions. The Montague and Capulet family demonstrate hatred and violence as soon as they are introduced to the audience. The families seem to be in competition with each other. We are not told why or when this quarrel began but we are told it is an ancient grudge, a constant conflict between the two names. They are very alike and well known throughout Verona. The people of Verona are aware of the grudge between the two families. Mercutio accuses Benvolio of being a trouble maker by saying inappropriate things about him. Thou wilt quarrel with a man for cracking nuts, having no other reason but because thou hast hazel eyesThou hast quarrelled with a man for coughing in the street, because he hath wakened thy dog that hath lain asleep in the sunThis shows us Mercutios blatant disregard for the truth just so he can argue and provoke other people. Also, these statements are ironic, because they are actually about him but he is pinpointing them on Benvolio. At this point the audience know that it is Mercutio who wishes to quarrel and not Benvolio. He is saying that Benvolio is such a peace maker that he would never quarrel with anyone over something ridiculous. Shakespeare is basically saying that young that young men fight for no reason and just fight to prove that they are better than each other. When we first meet Mercutio we see him as being calm and relaxed. He is trying to cheer up his friend Romeo as he is love struck. He shows he cares by saying Nay gentle Romeo we must have you dance. The qualities that Mercutio portray are being kind and considerate. The tone of language that Mercutio uses is one of a very friendly and relaxed nature. He is not acting in a way that should attract attention towards him. He is very restrained and is acting in a normal manner. Then Mercutio starts to mock Romeo by referring to classical references of love, because at this point Romeo is deeply in love with Roseline. You are a lover; borrow cupids wings. When Mercutio says this we admire him for his wit and cleverness but we dont like the way he is mocking his friend. By referring to words like cupid we automatically think of love which we admire. Also to mock his friend Mercutio also refers to physical views of love. By saying If love be rough with you be rough with love, he shows us tha t he has a vulgar mind and that he sees love more physical than spiritual (Romeo sees love spiritually). Mercutio also shows his spontaneity and creativity very vividly. The Queen Mabth speech goes from being a speech with a fairytale quality to a speech with very violent images. Her wagon-spokes made of long spiders legs, shows this magical quality, while and then dreams of cutting foreign throats, has the opposite affect and is very violent. Mercutios famous Queen Mab speech is important for the stunning quality of its poetry and for what it reveals about Mercutios character, but it also has some interesting thematic implications. Mercutio is trying to convince Romeo to set aside his lovesick melancholy over Rosaline and come along to the Capulet feast. When Romeo says that he is depressed because of a dream, Mercutio launches on a lengthy, playful description of Queen Mab, the fairy who supposedly brings dreams to sleeping humans. The main point of the passage is that the dreams Queen Mab brings are directly related to the person who dreams them-lovers dream of love, soldiers of war, etc. But in the process of making this rather prosaic point Mercutio falls into a sort of wild bitterness in which he seems to see dreams as destructive and delusional. Mercutios name comes from the word Mercury which suggests that Mercutio is not only fast with movement but is also fast with words. His name also means Messenger of the Gods, which also means that he is a powerful man. The arrival of Tybalt brings a lot of tension to the scene. Benvolios fear comes true as the Capulets approach; Benvolio forewarns Mercutio; Here by my head, here come the Capulets! Benvolio is panic stricken ,here we notice Shakespeares use of exclamation mark, this would cause the actor on stage to act like he is panic stricken, causing the audience to feel the further build up of tension. Mercutio being Mercutio says he doesnt care; By my heel I care not. Here again we see lots of word play; Shakespeare using body parts to contrast and compare for example the head is the most important and the heel is the least we also see Mercutio mocking Benvolio putting all his effort to Waste. Mercutio thinks of Tybalt as very good swordsman, who keeps in time, distance and proportions. He is a duellist, a gentleman He makes a big deal of sword fighting being as precise as music; he could cut through any shirt button you chose. Mercutio also thinks that Tybalt is a poser a very tall man, also a very good whore! These fashion manges, these pardon-mes, who stand so much on the new form, that they cannot sit at ease on the old bench He is implying that a man who wears clothes so tight must be very effeminate and proud of his body like a women, who shows off her body to appeal to men, he is saying that Tybalt is homosexual, because of the way he dresses, and he must have great difficulty in sitting down. In the play Mercutio uses words such as alla stoccata and passado because they are fencing terms. Mercutio uses these words because he is mocking Tybalt as Mercutio thinks he fights by the book of arithmetic, meaning he fights accurately without permission. Tybalt wants to fight Romeo in Act 3 scene 1 because they have learnt to hate each other while growing up, because the quarrel is an ancient grudge. A family name is very a precious feature, they believed they had to honour their family name and be strong in all situations to come be the best, so everyone looked up to them. We also discover in the play that Tybalt hates Romeo because he is of the Montague family. In Act 3 scene 1 Tybalt is furious at Romeos friends but mainly at Romeo because they gate crashed the Capulets party. Tybalt felt as if they were being imprudent towards the Capulets and their guests. So by doing this Tybalt agrees with Lord Capulet not to cause a fight but in his soliloquy he speaks out his revenge; Patience performance with whitful choler meeting makes my flesh tremble in their different greeting: I will withdraw, but this intrusion shall, Now seaming sweet, covert to bittrest gall. This is a key part of the play showing Tybalts volatile temper and how al though he had to retreat from fighting he will hold the grudge on to brings up on a later date. These lines cleverly used by Shakespeare to hint to the audience of what is to come. His actions throughout this scene seam to suggest that he is a catalyst for tragedy through his indignant attitude and family honour. After Benvolio and Mercutios small argument, true to Benvolios prediction, Tybalt and other Capulets arrive. Tybalt says to his companions to stay close follow me close, for I will speak to them. He says this because he wants them to belt up in case a fight breaks out. Tybalt greets his enemies Gentleman, good den, a word with one of you. The way he greats the Montagues shows that his purpose for arrival is strictly formal and not for fighting, Tybalts arrival and greeting irritates Mercutio who is already feeling irritated by the heat, and because they are enemies he takes it as an insult to be greeted by them. Mercutio also thinks that Tybalt is trying to intimidate him, which also makes him want to fight him. This is the start of the slow build up to the dramatic high point in the play. Shakespeare also shows how the conversation between Mercutio and Tybalt is getting less friendly from the way the language is used when they talk to each other, from you to thou. In Shakespearian t imes, it was ruder to address someone as thou then as you. Unusually Tybalt refuses to fight with Mercutio at this moment. The arrival of the Capulets makes a fight look more and more likely and Tybalts conversation with Mercutio makes it clear that he does not want to leave without one, so he deliberately twists Tybalts words to provoke him into having a fight And but one word with one of us? Couple it with something; make it a word and a blow. This may spark off anger in Tybalt because he is being made to look the fool because he doesnt actually want to fight with Mercutio. He still continues trying to provoke Tybalt into having a fight Consort? What, dost thou make us minstrels? Mercutio deliberately takes the word consort to mean a musical player, rather than a friend. He is goes to every extent to provoke Tybalt in to having a fight but the audience doesnt approve of the way he is proving Tybalt is aggressive. Mercutios language puns on what Tybalt says and insults him using his own words, Heres my fiddlestick, heres that shall make you dance At this point in the scene we only approve of what Mercut io is doing because of his language and wit, As Tybalt and Mercutio exchange verbal blows the excitement builds up and a fight seems almost inevitable. Neither of them wants to be humiliated by the other especially in front of the other men. At this point Benvolio intervenes because he doesnt want them to fight, he tells Mercutio and Tybalt that they are in the public and everyone can see them so either just drop the matter or fight somewhere else. We talk in the public haunt of men; either withdraw into some private place or reason coldly of your grievance or else depart. Here, all eyes gaze on us .Benvolio suggests that they take this somewhere private; Benvolio and the audience are worried that Mercutio and Tybalt could do something fatal given the situation; the intense heat but also bearing in mind Mercutios mad mood. This situation could go from worse to bad. Benvolios fear soon becomes reality Mercutio refuses to back off and replies; mens eyes were made to look, and let them look gaze. I will not budge for no mans pleasure I. Mercutio here is saying that Tybalt and his gang can stay because hes not going anywhere; he is again mocking Benvolio and taking no heed from him whatsoever. The I is used twice in this quote, which emphasises his stubbornness. After all the tension on stage between the characters, Romeo enters into this scene feeling peace loving and good-tempered. He is not in the mood for fighting with anyone. Whereas Mercutio and Tybalt are both in anger and provocative moods. Romeo is happy because he just got married to Juliet, but obviously the other characters on stage are unaware or this, at this point the audience knows more. The timing of Romeos entrance is very crucial as it gives the first sign of turning point of the play in my opinion. The mood of the audience changes from tense to worried and sympathetic. The audience now feel sorry for Romeo but also they want to know what he will do giving the thought that he has landed in a situation which has no intention of getting better. They feel sorry because he has to face a fight straight after his marriage, which no newly wed would ever think of doing. But now that Romeo had entered the scene there is no way that he could turn back, the audience is eager to know if he will live up to his reputation or be forgiving to Tybalt because to just married his cousin Juliet. Shakespeare is really building up tension here for the forthcoming tragedy. Here again we can link this to fate if Romeo hadnt entered the scene was not his fault that Mercutio died would we still have the same outcome? Would Romeo still be destined for the same fate, here again the audience are forced to rethink all the possibilities and also that is this really fate or just accidents happening one after the other. Tybalt now tries to provoke Romeo into having a fight; he uses Mercutios tactics by insulting him. Romeo, the love I bear thee can afford no better term than this: thou art a villain. Tybalt says that the only reason he loves him is because he is a villain, however Romeo doesnt have a clue what he is talking about because he is unaware that the only reason Tybalt is here because he wont let the fact slip that Romeo a Montague attended a Capulet party. By calling him a villain he really is insulting Romeo and is expecting Romeo to fire up and fight him at once, but so are the other characters on stage. The audience now really knows that this is going to be a tragedy and the outcome will be tragic despite all the possibilities. But everyone is surprised when Romeo replies calmly to Tybalts insult, but acknowledges that it is an insult, but makes it seem like to everyone it isnt. Tybalt, the reason that I have to love thee doth much excuse the appertaining rage to such greeting, villain am I none; therefore farewell, I see thou knowest me not Romeo here is not only being patient but he is explaining to Tybalt that he knows that he is angry; hes not even showing any concern to the fact he has been insulted straight in his face. Here Shakespeare is again using dramatic irony; the audience again know more than the characters on stage. Shakespeare had Romeo tell Tybalt in a riddle rather then tell him straight, that he and Juliet have got married. The riddle makes it a lot more confusing for the people on stage. Tybalt continues to make it clear that he is expecting Romeo to fight he does in two different ways: Firstly by verbally challenging and insulting him and secondly by physically reacting; drawing his sword. Boy this shall not excuse the injuries thou hast done me, therefore turn and draw. Tybalt insults him by calling him a boy and at that time the word boy used to be used for slaves. Romeo replies in a riddle again so no one knows what he is talking about and think he is a coward trying to get out of a fight. He says he loves the Capulets just as much as he loves his own family. I do protest I never injured thee, but love thee better than thou canst devise. Till thou shalt know the reason of my love; and so good Capulet which I tender none so clearly as mine own will be satisfied. This establishes that Romeo wants to get on with Tybalt for the sake of his true love, Juliet. This shows the contrast between love and hate because Romeo wont fight because of his love for Juliet overpowers his hate for Tybalt. Mercutio intervenes because he knows Romeo wont fight and he doesnt want to be seen as a coward because he is friends with Romeo, also because feels the need for vengeance: Tybalt mocks him and Romeo, but Romeo will not fight so Mercutio feels it is his duty in honour of the Capulets to fight, Mercutio is also very hung up on the offensive remarks Tybalt said both about him and Romeo, so he makes it difficult for Tybalt to reject his challenge by insulting him and drawing swords. Tybalt then reacts by drawing his sword too, because he never backs out of a fight once provoked, Although we learn a lot about the power of hate in this scene, we also see the power of love and devotion towards friends. We see the powerful force of love when Romeo puts aside his hatred towards Montagues and refuses to fight Tybalt because they are now related because of his utmost adoration for Juliet Mercutio plays with Tybalts name by calling him a rat- catcher which in Elizabethan times was the lowest of all jobs. Here Shakespeare is using word play Mercutio is continuously taunting Tybalt and making a fool out of him in front of his own men. The audience are worried about Mercutio now due to his restless and rude behaviour and the fact that he has taken up a fight with Tybalt doesnt seem to cheer him up either. But bear in mind from here on Mercutios actions are due to lack of knowledge and foolishness, but also one might link this reputation and how Mercutio is trying to live up to the reputation of Montagues. In reply Tybalt says what wouldst thou have with me? Mercutio then says Good King of cats, nothing but one of your nine lives This is a sneer at Tybalts name as it is the name of the King of Cats in Reynard the Fox. Mercutios reference to one of Tybalts nine lives shows he is fighting to defend the Montague rather than to kill. The theme of conflict is made evident by copious use of swordplay throughout the play. This dramatic affect reminds the audience of the theme. Mercutio and Tybalt both draw their swords to create a dramatic effect. Shakespeares language suggests their reasons as he uses short speeches for Tybalt and long speeches for Mercutio. This annoys Mercutio as Tybalt pays no attention to him Romeo tries to break the fight between Mercutio and Tybalt by stepping between them in order to prevent them both from doing something stupid like getting injured or even killed. He tries telling them both that they are doing a shameful thing, but none of this does any good. Gentlemen, for shame, forbear this outrage! This shows that Romeo is beginning to get worried about the situation. His entrance also breaks up Tybalt and Mercutios argument and seems to calm Tybalt down. Romeo seems worried and anxious at the fact that he may be seen by someone nearby who may possibly tell the Prince. His anxiety sustains the tension in the scene. His intervention changes the outcome of the fight, if he had not interfered, Mercutio may have survived. Furthermore the audience and the characters on stage dont know it is fatal wound. Mercutio uses the word scratch to show that he is a tough man and a blow like that from Tybalt only feels like a scratch to him. He also says cat-scratch so he is insulting Tybalt even when wounded. Mercutio responds to Romeos intervention by shouting short words and phrases of abuse. His use of puns are not as light-hearted as they were at the beginning of the scene, he uses them more seriously to get at Romeo. Ask for me tomorrow, and you shall find me a grave man. Here, he uses curses as direct accusations towards both Romeo and Tybalt, which show his emotions. This means that come tomorrow and you will find me a dead man, it also means come tomorrow and youll find me a brave man. This shows that it is serious enough tis not so deep as a well, nor so wide as a church door. If he fell down a well he wouldnt b able to find his way out, and the only way he will be going through is through the church door in a coffin. Shakespeare has him saying and making theses jokes to show how even when fatally wounded Mercutio still wants to be the centre of attention Being attacked by a man who Mercutio calls a dog, a rat, a mouse, a cat to scratch a man to dead. A man who he thinks of lower in status to him annoys him because his reputation is tarnished. Shakespeare is suggesting that young men only fight to show who is stronger, to show who the real man is also to save their reputation. Mercutio gets really annoyed about the way he is injured because he was protecting his best friend but his best friend got in the way.Shakespeare is suggesting Mercutio is more bothered about his reputation. Mercutio is annoyed about the way he is injured. A baggort, a rouge a villain, that fights by the book of arithmetic, why devil you come between us? I was hurt under your arm. He is saying that Tybalt always plays by the rules and he is a low life. As he is dying he curses both households A plague o both your houses. Repeating this curse three times as he wants them to realize the impact of their actions, and will not forgive them. In the 1500s to do something three times was considered a kind of magical power which was believed to come true. The reason he does this is because he realizes that his forthcoming death is as a direct result of their feud. He tried to help the Montagues but did not receive anything in return. Mercutios death is a pivotal moment in the scene, there is an abrupt change in mood from the immediately previous scene, after he is killed by Tybalt. He is a character full of life and energy, making the scene comedic and humorous. When Mercutio is killed the tone to the rest of the play becomes more serious and violent. Changing the play from what seemed to be a comedy into a tragedy. At this point the audience would be shocked by, and angry with Tybalt as Mercutio was only joking with him. After Mercutio dies Romeo says my reputation stained meaning that he now has a bad reputation. Shakespeare has him saying this to show that all boys care about is what other people think of them and they dont care about anyone but themselves. Romeo is left alone on stage for a moment and speaks aloud. O sweet Juliet! Thy beauty hath made me effeminate, and in my temper softend valors steel! Romeos soliloquy reveals his thoughts and emotions to the audience. He is annoyed about what has happened to his best friend and will take it out on Tybalt. When Benvolio brings the news that Mercutio is dead, Romeo seeks out and slays Tybalt in revenge. Romeo blames Mercutios death partly on himself and feels guilty of his actions, ashamed that love has softened his bravery. The reason he acted the way he did was because of his marriage with Tybalts cousin. Shakespeare has him saying these to show young men are supposed to be brave and strong and he isnt. Romeo yet again is worried about what people think of him; also Shakespeare is asking the question why young men think being in love makes them soft. Benvolio praises Mercutio that gallant spirit hath aspired the clouds. As he thinks Mercutio was brave fighting like that but Shakespeare is being sarcastic and he wants the audience to think and ask questions like what is brave about picking a fight? At first it appears that Romeo is not going to avenge his friends death. This days black fate on moe days doth depend Romeo is saying that he is going to do nothing about his friends death and let others sort it out. Shakespeare has Tybalt return on stage as he wants the audience to think there is going to be another fight. Romeo is very angry with Tybalt because he has just killed his best friend so this fuels another fight in which Romeo wants to kill Tybalt. Shakespeare has Romeo speak with fury for the first time in the play and fiery eyed fury be my conduct of new he does this to show a different side of Romeo because all we have seen so far is a happy peaceful loving character. Romeo isnt a very good fighter but he is able to beat Tybalt in a fight . I think he is able to do this because he can fuel others to make them do things. When Tybalt returns, Romeo ignores his previous respectful attitude and instead challenges Tybalt, reminding him that it was he who killed Mercutio and consequently Tybalts soul must join his. Either thou, or I, or both, must go with him. His reason for killing Tybalt is simply because he loathes Tybalt for causing Mercutios death, and wants to show how annoyed he is by fighting Tybalt. It was common in the 1500s that a friend would avenge another friends life if it was taken away. Tybalt also speaks the language of hate to him. thou wretched boy he is still insulting Romeo as he fights him. He is trying to show Mercutios death hasnt troubled him in the slightest way. I think the audience would think Tybalt deserved it as he was just as bad as Mercutio in the sense that he insulted both Mercutio and Romeo, even though Romeo was trying to make peace between them by speaking words of love. The audience would also feel sympathetic towards Mercutio because he was only intending it to be a joke between him and Tybalt. The killing of Tybalt is simply the tail end of the climatically killing of Mercutio. Without Mercutios death, there is no need for Tybalts death. Perhaps Tybalts death is better described as the reason for Mercutio death. As soon as Tybalt falls to the ground, Romeo stands in a daze, realizing what he has done and is immediately shocked, stunned. He realizes he should not have said what he said, and should have thought about his actions more carefully, controlling his temper. O, I am fortunes fool. Here, Romeo regrets his actions and claims he is a victim of bad luck. The audience knows there is worse to come, but Romeo, himself, does not. This is an example of dramatic irony, where the audience knows what the character does not. Murdering Tybalt was a terrible thing to do because he was Juliets favourite cousin and also Romeo is now a part of the Capulet family and murdering Tybalt would surely mean the Capulets will be against him being accepted as one of them. Fate played a major role in this scene because the duel could have happened anywhere in Verona. The fact that it took place at the exact time and place where Romeo was heading could only have happened by fate. The line which is most telling to the theme of fate in this scene of Romeo and Juliet is. O, I am fortunes fool. At this point Romeo realizes his life is out of control. Right after Mercutios death Romeo says: This days black fate on mo days doth depend; Romeo knows fate has entered into his life and he wants to blame fortune for the two deaths that have just occurred, rather than to think about what he could have done to stop them occurring. The way in which the play is written perhaps makes us more sympathetic towards Romeo, because we know that he has just married Juliet, whilst the characters on stage do not. Romeo could have acted in a more sensible way to Tybalts challenge, instead of coming out with the words, which provoked Mercutio into violence. His intervention between Mercutio and Tybalt may have caused his friends death. His attempts to remain loyal to both his friends and his wife Juliet were doomed to failure. It is clear that conflict plays a major role in this scene of the play. The theme of conflict is expressed through both physical and verbal fighting as well as the interaction between characters and the use of wordplay. In this act of the play you have Juliets favourite cousin trying to kill Romeo, who is now married to Juliet and also related to Tybalt. By marrying Juliet Romeo has symbolically tried putting the feud behind him, but finds he cannot. When his best friend, Mercutio is killed by Tybalt, Romeo wants nothing but revenge which puts into action a series of events, one of them being his banishment from Verona, leading to a tragic end for the lovers. The Capulets and Montagues hate each other, Juliet has an arranged marriage to Paris, and there is a plague in the city of the messenger. So it is a case of both bad luck and fate that cause the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. This scene is important to the play as it is the pivotal scene and where loves turns into tragedy, misfortune and, of course, death. Where the mood and atmosphere of the play changes.

Entrepreneurial Process

Entrepreneurial Process Introduction The first thing to do before one sets out to start a business is identification of an opportunity. He then strategize on the way forward; the success of the business is dependent on how well he is going to capture customers to buy from him, which on the other side is dependent on the quality of initial entrepreneurial decision. Different places require different set ups for their success (Avery, 2004). This paper analyzes the process that an entrepreneur undergoes before setting up a business.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Entrepreneurial Process specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Decision Making Every situation or opportunity has its own unique potential that an entrepreneur must capture if he is to be successful. This will be in consideration of business risk; business risk is the uncertainty on to whether the kind of business that the one has engaged in will be of success. This is in both n ew and existing business when they want to extend their business to other areas of a start up business. Businesses are driven by market of goods produced; thus an entrepreneur must ensure that there is potential in the chosen location. When investing in some kind of a business there is the initial and subsequent running expenses. In a business environment the proceeds from the business should cover all this and there remain a portion that is the profit of the investor (Livingston, 2008). Competition is a good element in the business arena since it ensures that quality goods and services are provided; it is the one that keeps the businessmen on their toes to ensure that they earn customer loyalty. This calls for continuous improvements of its products and services. Two things must be considered then, whether the entrepreneur will be able to enter the market and whether he is capable to improve his products always. However, there are areas that competition is so high that any entrant will risk so highly and possibility of entering the market effectively becomes a problem, all these are factors that should be considered before making the go-ahead decision (Duening, Hisrich, Lechter, 2009). Entrepreneurial Strategy The success of an organization is dependent on the quality of decision made by its manager. One of the major attributes that make a good manager stand out is his or her decisiveness. The quality of decisions made by a manager is reflected in the performance of his or her organization. Other than the control by decision of the management, Customers influence almost all parts of a business. The available target customer’s needs should be well understood so as when deciding the kind of business to engage in, one is aware of the available customer segment. By segment we mean the class, social status, age, and income level. One must align himself to the interest of the customer and by so doing there will be continued business.Advertising Look ing for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More When a business is established, the success will be dependent on the quality of the good/services that it will offer to the market. They must be those that satisfy the needs of the customer. As the business, he should listen to what other people have to say about the entire process. There are decisions that cannot be delegated and others can, there is need to separate them (Ebbena, Johnson, 2006). Resource Acquisition Capital is required for the set up of the business and the general running of the business; before one sets to start up a business there is the need to know the probable sources of capital. This may be from ones saving or a loan facility. Whichever the sources there is the need of understanding its source and ensure that it is dependable in all times. If the capital sources are not dependable chances that the business will go unde r are high. There are day to day and short term financial obligations that should be met by a business and the money must be available for its running. These include overdrafts and creditors have to be paid. These calls for a constant amount of money to be available in the business this is what is referred to as liquidity. To cover this, business employ various ways to ensure that this is done, an example of the ways that they employ is buying of short term securities. This may be in the form of shares in the stock exchange that is expected to be sold at a gain and the finances gotten can be used to meet the financial obligation. Another way that some businesses use to meet the financial obligation is by investing back the profits that they get into the same business and the cash flows that bear as a result are used to meet the obligations. Exit Strategy It is not always the case that a business set up will be successful, there are times that it may fail; when starting a business th is should be taken into consideration. Business dynamics cannot be predicted with a 100% certainty. If the trend fails to favor a business, then the business is more likely not to meet its obligation. It may be a failure in the market, change of fashion, calamities or negative goodwill created; they may hinder continuity of a business (Shane, 2003). To cater for this eventuality, there is need to have an exit plan. Mitigating any loss that is likely to result from loss of business is one of the common ways to have an exit strategy that will not hurt the entrepreneur. Conclusion Starting up a new business is taking a risk; however if the decision is well thought there are numerous benefits that come up with investing in business. Before one set to start there are short and long terms parameters that he should consider to ensure that there will be continuity in the business.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Entrepreneurial Process specifically for y ou for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The future is unpredictable and so even the smallest details about something should be interpolated before starting up. From the above study; it has come clear to me that entrepreneurship is all about how well one can understand the future and plan on it. It involves a process of analyzing risks associated in a certain area and working in full recognition of their presence. All mitigation factors should be put in place before the business is started. Reference List Avery, G. C. (2004). Understanding leadership: Paradigms and cases. London: SAGE Publications. Duening, N., Hisrich, D., Lechter, A. (2009). Technology Entrepreneurship. New York: Academic Press Ebbena, J.; Johnson, A. (2006), Bootstrapping in small firms: An empirical analysis of change over time, Journal of Business Venturing, Volume 21, Issue 6, November 2006, Pages 851-865 Livingston, J. (2008). Founders at work: stories of startups early days. Berkeley, CA; New York: Apress. Shane, S. (2003). A General Theory of Entrepreneurship: the Individual-Opportunity Nexus. New York: Edward Elgar

Heterogeneous vs. Homogeneous Mixtures

Heterogeneous vs. Homogeneous Mixtures The terms heterogeneous and homogeneous refer to mixtures of materials in chemistry. The difference between heterogeneous and homogeneous mixtures is the degree to which the materials are mixed together and the uniformity of their composition. A homogeneous mixture is a mixture where the components that make up the mixture are uniformly distributed throughout the mixture. The composition of the mixture is the same throughout. There is only one phase of matter observed in a homogeneous mixture. So, you wouldnt observe both a liquid and a gas or a liquid and a solid in a homogeneous mixture. 1:43 Watch Now: What's the Difference Between Homogeneous and Heterogeneous? Homogeneous Mixture Examples There are several examples of homogeneous mixtures encountered in everyday life: AirSugar waterRainwaterVodkaVinegarDishwashing detergentSteel You cant pick out components of a homogeneous mixture or use a simple mechanical means to separate them. You cant see individual chemicals or ingredients in this type of mixture. Only one phase of matter is present in a homogeneous mixture. A heterogeneous mixture is a mixture where the components of the mixture are not uniform or have localized regions with different properties. Different samples from the mixture are not identical to each other. There are always two or more phases in a heterogeneous mixture, where you can identify a region with properties that are distinct from those of another region, even if they are the same state of matter (e.g., liquid, solid). Heterogeneous Mixture Examples Heterogeneous mixtures are more common than homogeneous mixtures. Examples include: Cereal in milkVegetable soupPizzaBloodGravelIce in sodaSalad dressingMixed nutsBowl of colored candiesSoil Usually, its possible to physically separate components of a heterogeneous mixture. For example, you can centrifuge (spin out) solid blood cells to separate them from the plasma of blood. You can remove ice cubes from soda. You can separate candies according to color. Telling Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Mixtures Apart Mostly, the difference between the two types of mixtures is a matter of scale. If you look closely at sand from a beach, you can see the different components, such as shells, coral, sand, and organic matter. Its a heterogeneous mixture. If, however, you view a large volume of sand from a distance, its impossible to discern the different types of particles. The mixture is homogeneous. This can seem confusing! To identify the nature of a mixture, consider its sample size. If you can see more than one phase of matter or different regions in the sample, it is heterogeneous. If the composition of the mixture appears uniform no matter where you sample it, the mixture is homogeneous.

Oracy in Teaching Maths and Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Oracy in Teaching Maths and Science - Essay Example The teachers use different strategies to provide opportunities to allow different types of discussions. Spoken language skills need to be developed in all subject areas, as different curriculum areas require different speaking and listening skills. There are different aspects that need to be observed relating to the different processes involved in talking, thinking and interthinking. For example, in assessing a child's ability to analyse a problem, his or her skills at speculating, questioning and hypothesising have to be observed. In assessing a child's ability to communicate, his or her skills at describing, explaining and clarifying have to be observed. This requires that the teacher observe a set of pupils of just two or three per session so that an appropriate observation of skills and a proper planning of talk experiences can be made. It is useful to involve pupils in the planning process so that they can participate in discussions as to what skills are needed in different area s such as math problem-solving, science experiments, etc., and the different kinds of talk, the outcomes and the resources available. Children should be made to work in different groups, playing diverse roles, so that stereotyping can be avoided and their different skills can be observed. Participation in diverse groups helps the children understand the functioning of group dynamics and the benefits of team work. Lalljee cites the example of 6-year-old children working in pairs for producing a free form class poem where the discussions of their ideas inspired them enough to produce an illustrated booklet which was read with enthusiasm by them (Lalljee 1998, p.6). Encouraging students to make suggestions on problems and ideas allow them speaking and listening space within the curriculum. Development of problem-solving skills According to the National Curriculum, teachers are expected to provide pupils opportunities to develop seven common requirements - Curriculum Cymreig, Communication Skills, Mathematical Skills, Information Technology Skills, Problem-solving Skills, Creative Skills, Personal and Social Education - through their study of the National Curriculum subjects (Common requirements n.d.). The Education Act of 2002 stipulates that a balanced and broadly-based curriculum should prepare pupils for the "opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life" (Skills framework 2007, p.2). Future Skills Wales 2003 Generic Skills Survey reports that of skills gaps reported by employers, lack of IT skills is the most common problem "followed by communication skillsshowing initiative, problem solving and ability to learn" (cited in Skills framework 2007, p.2). The skills framework developed for oracy moves on a continuum of different levels and stages for developing and presenting information an d ideas. The problem-solving skills in oracy are developed through several key stages. For developing oracy, the first key stage involves using talk to develop thinking by exploring, developing and clarifying ideas, predicting outcomes and discussing possibilities. The second stage involves talking for a range of purposes, including planning, predicting and investigating. The third stage involves t

Control in Global Economy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Control in Global Economy - Essay Example This study therefore chose to evaluate on this catchy trend in management control systems. Management control systems in the world differ. These differences make management practices in various parts and organizations different. One country’s proven management systems may not work appropriately in a foreign country. Lere and Portz (2005), in the CPA Journal, undertook a research to establish possible reasons that may inhabit the working of a management control system in the United States with a multinational corporation firm in a foreign country. Taking a case study of a U.S based Multinational Corporation; the effectiveness of her management control system would evidently differ from one country to another or even from one branch with diverse cultural inclination to another in the same country. Therefore, the following is a report from the investigation carried out. The report from an earlier research conducted by Hofstede was that culture differs in the following aspects; power distance, gender, individual versus collectivism and uncertainty avoidance. Three regions and fifty countries were used in the analysis. However, his taxonomy added another aspect that was used to analyze twenty three nations and this is Confucian dynamism. Hofstede found out that those cultural differences has numerous implications to the effectiveness of a management system. Countries with cultures regularly referred to as the small power distance countries are associated with participative decision making and decentralization whereas large power countries are normally associated with less participative decision making and centralization. This implies that different control management systems will suit a country on the basis of their mode of decision making. For instance, in a decentralized organization, management remains at low organizational levels while in a centralized system, management control system is at high organizational

Islamic Economics and Secularism

Islamic Economics and Secularism Secularism is the assertion that governmental practices or institutions should exist separately from religion and/or religious beliefs. In other words, secular system is based on the materialistic and individualistic views with less socio economic justice and only concern to the worldly matters. Meanwhile, Islamic economics is a system that identifies and promotes an economic order that conforms to Islamic scripture and traditions. Thus, the above statement of differentiation between Islamic economics and secularism by only certain characteristics is untrue as both of them are mutually exclusive. The Islamic economics differs from secular system not by prohibition of interest, gambling and other unjust transaction only, but it is more than that. Islam is a way of life, and since economy is also a part of mans life, thus, the Islamic principles is absorbed and fully utilized into the economic transaction and practices. Therefore, the statement of Islamic economics as a discipline is nothing more than the secular system without interest, gambling and other unjust transactions where value creation is of the halal kind is not valid; and the justification will be discussed here. The justification To emphasize the difference, the following points underline the key difference between Islam and this secular system, in particular, and other social and political systems, in general are highlighted. The first point is, Islam differs from secularisms theories and perspectives in its ideological and doctrinal bases. Islam is a Divine Message with a special conception of the universe, life and man. It basically disagrees with secular views, which have their roots in their materialistic vision that has no religious base, nor any belief in Allah. Capitalism is merely concepts on devoid of spiritual and moral values. The difference between it and Islam is obviously great. Islam has an all-embracing ideological and legislative make-up. In it, no barriers are to be found between morals, laws, worships, concepts and existence. There are significant differences among them in terms of emphasis they place on material or spiritual goals and the role of moral values and government intention in ordering human affairs. While material goals concentrate primarily on goods and services that contribute to physical comfort and well-being, spiritual goals include nearness to God, peace of mind, inner happiness, honesty, justice, mutual care and cooperation, family and social harmony, and the absence of crime and anomie. These may not be quantifiable, but are, nevertheless, crucial for realizing human well-being may lead to a neglect of spiritual ingredients. The greater the difference in emphasis, the greater may be the difference in the economic disciplines of these societies. Besides, in its aims and objectives, Islam is distinguished from secularism on the basis of contents and the legal organization of life. It treats related subjects in separate ways with specific points. The ultimate goal of Islam is to worship and seek the pleasure of Allah. In implementing the divine law and adhering to the divine order, a Muslim demonstrates he is a worshipper. His objective is to seek the reward and pleasure of Allah, the Exalted. Even in the context of economy activity, men should obey the guideline of ethical behavior so called Akhlaq which emphasizes on the real spirit of Islam over and above legal limits. Contrarily, the human objective in capitalist society is purely a materialistic one, expressed in terms of materialistic gain regardless of the cost and fall out on society. Even though there is a sort of analogy between Islam and other systems in certain respects, Islam has its own way and method of implementing its economic concepts and objectives. For example, Islam believes in social justice and so it adopts just principles in distribution and production growth. Capitalism attempts to call for similar concepts, which can be seen as generally logical and which man, by no means, can shun. But in trying to develop the conceptions and implement them, we will find the difference between Islam and secular systems in both method and way. In capitalism, freedom knows no boundaries. In theory, individuals can do what they desire to. In doing so, it believes that the non-existence of limits or restrictions results in economic freedom, in competition and the increase of production. But to achieve a suitable and satisfactory economic level is for all people, makeshift and inexorable laws have to be enforced, based upon such theories as the laws of wages, supply and demand etc. Unlike this, Islam adopts its own methods. It never opens the gates for individual selfishness to flourish like in capitalism. Islam believes in individual ownership, community ownership and state ownership, as it is expounded in the books of fiqh, traditions and in the Holy Quran. In case selfishness and urges of greed prevail, and to prevent exploitation and economic injustice from sweeping over the community, Islam has laid down lawful and moral restrictions related to ownership, investment and consumption in defense of manipulation and deprivation. Besides, Islamic economic takes great emphasize on the role of the market, families, society and government in determining a success in economy. The market is not the only institution where people interact in human society. They also interact in the family, the society, and the government, and their interaction in all these institutions is closely interrelated. There is no doubt that the serving of self interest does help raise efficiency in the market place. However, if self-interest is overemphasized and there are no moral restraints on individual behavior, other institution may not work effectively family may disintegrate, the society may be uncaring, and the government may be corrupt, partisan, and self-centered. Example if both the parents try to serve just their own self-interest and not willing to make sacrifices for the sake of proper care and upbringing of children demands, this family may disintegrate and children not get enough love from them. Lack of willingness to make such sacrifice can lead to a decline in the quality of the human input of all other institutions, including the market, the society and the government. It may also lead to a fall in fertility rates below the replacement level, making it difficult for the society not only to sustain its development but also its social security system. Furthermore, while secular economics generally considers the behavior, tastes and preferences of individuals as given, Islamic economics does not do so. It places great emphasis on individual and social reform through moral uplift. Moral uplift aims at the change in human behavior, tastes and preferences and, thereby, it complements the price mechanism in promoting general well-being. Before even entering the market place and being exposed to the price filter, the consumers are expected to pass their claims through the moral filter. This will help filter out conspicuous consumption and all wasteful and unnecessary claims on resources. The price mechanism can then takes over and reduce the claims on resources even further to lead to the market equilibrium. The two filters can together make it possible to have optimum economy in the use of resources, which is necessary to satisfy the material as well as spiritual needs of all human beings, to reduce the concentration of wealth in a few hands, and to raise savings, which are needed to promote greater investment and employment. Without complementing the market system with morally-based value judgments, we may end up perpetuating inequities in spite of our good intentions through inaction, non-choice and drifting. The other distinction that differentiate between these two is Islamic economic emphasize on the importance of the Hereafter. This is where the concepts of the innate goodness of human beings and of the Hereafter come in concepts which conventional economics ignores but on which Islam places a great deal of emphasis. Because of their innate goodness, human beings do not necessarily always try to serve their self-interest. They are also altruistic and are willing to make sacrifices for the well-being of others. In addition, the concept of the Hereafter does not confine self-interest to just this world. It rather extends it beyond this world to life after death. We may be able to serve our self-interest in this world by being selfish, dishonest, uncaring, and negligent of our obligations towards our families, other human beings, animals, and the environment. However, we cannot serve our self-interest in the Hereafter except by fulfilling all these obligations. This serves to provide a motivating mechanism for sacrifice for the well-being of others that conventional economics fails to provide. The innate goodness of human beings along with the long-run perspective given to self-interest has the potential of inducing a person to be not only efficient but also equitable and caring. Therefore, as a guideline, Shariah is designed as a set of rules and regulations that aims of protecting public interest and the welfare of the people in this life and hereafter. The objective of the Shari`ah is to promote the well-being of all mankind, which lies in safeguarding their faith (din), their human self (nafs), their intellect (`aql), their posterity (nasl) and their wealth (mal). Whatever ensures the safeguard of these five serves public interest and is desirable. The guideline of Islamic economics is in the discipline of muamalat, which presents a framework for conduct in the civil arena. It deals in part with economic functions in an Islamic society but not comprehensively with factors impacting upon economic behavior since it is concerned solely with legal relationships between members of the society. In fact, the goals of the Islamic economics include fulfillment of the basic needs for food, clothing, shelter, medical care and education for all humans, ensuring equal ity of opportunity to all preventing concentration of wealth and reducing inequality in the distribution of income and wealth so as, among other things, wealth does not become a means of domination of man by man, ensuring to all the freedom to pursue moral excellence, and ensuring stability and economic growth to an extent necessary for realization of the above-mentioned goals. Conclusion Islam is a way of life. Being a Muslim means one will absorb the whole philosophies of Islam in everything he does in life. So do economics. The difference between Islamic economics compared to secular ideology is not just on prohibition of interest, gambling and other unjust transactions where value creation is of the halal kind. The unique principles that make Islamic economics differs lies on its ideological and doctrinal bases, the, basis of contents and the legal organization of life, the way Islam implements its economic concepts and objectives, the emphasize on the role of the market, families, society and government, the value on individual and social reform through moral uplift, and the importance of the Hereafter. Question No. (2) Introduction Worldview can be defines as a set of implicit or explicit assumptions about the origin of the universe and the nature of human life. Meanwhile, from Islamic point of view, worldview is a metaphysical survey of visible as well as the invisible worlds including the perspective of life as a whole, is not a worldview that is formed merely by the gathering together of various cultural objects, values and phenomena into artificial coherence, or can be considered as vision of reality and truth. Islamic worldview is in fact a dual worldview, this world of action and accountability for the actions in the next, while the secular worldview is focusing on worldly rather than spiritual. The core elements of Islamic and Secular worldviews: A comparison. There are a few similarities between Islamic and Secular worldview in general, even though there will be differences if we look in depth. Both are concern on the allocation and distribution of resources and both emphasize the fulfillment of material needs, even though in Islamic economics there is an equal emphasis on the fulfillment of spiritual needs. Besides, both recognize the important role of market mechanism in the allocation and distribution of resources, but in addition, Islamic economics argues that the market may not by itself be able to fulfill even the material needs of all human beings. This is because it can promote excessive use of scarce resources by the rich at the expense of the poor if there is undue emphasis on the serving of self-interest. Instead of some similarities, there are a lot of differences between these two worldviews, and we will be discussing through it here. Firstly, the secular and materialist worldviews attach maximum importance to the material aspect of human well-being and tend generally to ignore the importance of the spiritual aspect. In contrast with this, Islamic worldviews give attention to both the material as well as the spiritual aspects of human well-being. Islam sees both these aspects material and spiritual of human existence as unitary wherein the material and the moral considerations as well as the here (Now) and Hereafter of human life are inextricably entangled. Apart from that, the secular worldview looks at happenings in the world from a rationalistic viewpoint, while excludes religious or ethical considerations. It promotes pursuit of self-interest as guiding human behavior and saw no conflict between individual and social interests. Besides, it makes a distinction between reason and revelation as the source of knowledge. It considers reason alone as its source, including economics. The secular worldview is conditioned by science alone i.e. any subject that goes beyond the limits of human reason is not acceptable. Furthermore, and more fundamentally, the secular man-made worldview can change infinitely at the discretion of man as his external stimuli and attitude change. However, Islamic view does not necessarily reject the role of reason in human development. They, however, recognize the limitations of reason and wish to complement it by revelation. Islamic worldview is based on the Quran and the Sunnah it is has a moral code of conduct. It grants freedom of action within the Shariah boundaries. It also emphasizes on justice and moderation as well as gives priority to social interest if it is in clash with individual interest. Islam invites people to observe and think but within the framework of Shariah. Thus, the Shariah, although flexible in certain areas is not replaceable and therefore, cannot be influenced by any human whim, while, at the same time; it promotes change and aims to influence human intentions, conduct and behavior towards the Straight Path. In addition, the Islamic worldview values reason as a source of knowledge, but in addition it assigns a role to sapience and revelation as inalienable sources. It is not a product of human tho ught resulting from any scientific inquiry: it is a divine direction leading to a unique way of life. It links the life in this world with life in the Hereafter. Thus, the Islamic worldview, although it respects the rational mind, is not confined to the limits of human reason or to observable scientific investigations (reality): it contemplates both, the observables and the non- observables. In other words, material science is the ultimate word under the Secular worldview, whereas under the Islamic worldview it is not. Furthermore, secularism often argue that maximum material well-being can be best realized if individuals are given unhindered freedom to pursue their self-interest and to maximize their want satisfaction in keeping with their own tastes and preferences. In their extreme form they do not recognize any role for Divine guidance in human life and place full trust in the ability of human beings to chalk out a proper strategy with the help of their reason. In such a worldview there is little role for values or government intervention in the efficient and equitable allocation and distribution of resources. When asked about how social interest would be served when everyone has unlimited freedom to pursue his/her self-interest, the reply is that market forces will themselves ensure this because competition will keep self-interest under check. Differently, for Islamic worldview, they do not totally reject the need for individual freedom or the role that the serving of self-interest can play in human development They, however, emphasize that both freedom and the pursuit of self-interest need to be toned down by moral values and good governance to ensure that everyones well-being is realized and that social harmony and family integrity are not hurt in the process of everyone serving his/her self-interest. Looking from the economic point of view, the secular economics claims to be value free, which in fact it is not because not to have a value is itself a value. Conversely, Islamic economics has moral and ethical values of which it cannot brook any violation. In Islam freedom to choose values is restricted, yet it had already been properly aligned in the Holy Quran and the prophets Sunnah. While pursuit of self-interest is the invisible hand that regulates economies in secular economy, Islamic economists mostly reject this view out of hand and equate it with selfishness. This does not seem valid. Islam approves the pursuit of self-interest because it is instinctive with human beings. Muslims perform their religious obligations in their own interest. It need not equal selfishness, especially if Shariah norms were observed. In addition, secular economist claimed that if available resources are scarce they must avoid waste and maximize production. As a consumer they should attempt to derive maximum satisfaction from their limited incomes. Islam is not opposed to maximization per se. however, maximization is value-neutral; what is maximized, how and to serve what ends are the deciding factors. While the profit maximization is the main intention in doing business in secular economy, Islam is aiming towards primacy of justice and social welfare. Besides, while conventional or secular economics generally considers the behavior and tastes and preferences of individuals as given, Islamic economics does not do so. It places great emphasis on individual and social reform through moral uplift. Moral uplift aims at the change in human behavior, tastes and preferences and, thereby, it complements the price mechanism in promoting general well-being. Conclusion In sum, the concept of worldview that guides and regulates an economy is visionary, contextual, and flexible within limits. The basic differences between the secular (capitalistic) and the Islamic economic worldviews center on the issues concerning the foundation and ideology in the system, reason-revelation interface, the sort of values entertained and promoted, as well as how it differ in economic contextual. Question No. (3) Overview The economic problem is one of the fundamental economic theories in the operation of any economy. It asserts that there is scarcity, or there are finite resources available that are insufficient to satisfy all human wants. The problem then becomes how to determine what is to be produced and how the factors of production (such as capital and labor) are to be allocated. In short, the economic problem is the choice one must make, arising out of limited means and unlimited wants. The economic problem is most simply explained by the question how do we satisfy unlimited wants with limited resources? The premise of the economic problem model is that human wants are constant and infinite due to constantly changing demands (often closely related to changing demographics) of the population. However, resources in the world to satisfy human wants are always limited to the amount of natural or human resources available. The economic problem, and methods to curb it, revolves around the idea of choice in prioritizing which wants can be fulfilled. Concepts of Economic problems There are three concepts that associated with the economic problems discussed above: (1) needs, (2) wants, and (3) choice. Human needs are material items that people need for survival, such as food, clothing and some form of housing. In Islamic point of view, needs comprehend five foundations, namely (a) Religion, (b) Physical self, (c) Intellect or Knowledge, (d) Offspring, and (e) Wealth. Until the Industrial Revolution, the vast majority of the worlds population struggled for access to basic human needs While the basic needs of human survival are important in the function of the economy, human wants are the driving force which stimulates demand for goods and services. In order to curb the economic problem, economists must classify the nature and different wants of consumers, as well as prioritize wants and organize production to satisfy as many wants as possible. One assumption often made in mainstream neoclassical economics is that humans inherently pursue their self-interest and the market mechanism best satisfies the various wants different individuals might have. These wants are often classified into individual wants, which depend on the individuals preferences and purchasing power parity, and collective wants, those of entire groups of people. Things such as food and clothing can be classified as either wants or needs, depending on what type and how often a good is asked for. Wants are effective desires for a particular product, or something which can only be obtained by working for it. The economic problem fundamentally revolves around the idea of choice, which ultimately must answer the problem. Due to the limited resources available, businesses must determine what to produce first to satisfy demand. Consumers are considered the biggest influences of this choice, and the goods which they want must also fit within their budgets and purchasing power parity. Solving the economic problems from Islamic perspective. The first point is about the concept of ownership of wealth in Islam. It states that all wealth belongs to God, and human beings hold them as trustees of God. It is up to the individual to decide how much of this excess he should give back for the cause of God. In other word, after earning wealth through fair and lawful means, one should satisfying their personal genuine and legitimate needs in a moderate and prudent way. After doing so, they should spend it for the cause of Allah; example is for the welfare of the poor and less fortunate people. Besides, payment of zakat that is obliged to each Muslim gives the same function here. Thus, helping others in such ways would at least fulfill the basic human needs; our first economic problem discussed above. Furthermore, because of Islam differentiates between the basic needs and luxuries, thus, there exists no concept of relative scarcity of resources in Islam. The resources available on earth are sufficient to secure the basic needs (food, clothing and shelter) of fifty billion human beings. Such a misunderstanding has concealed the reality that starvation, poverty, and economic backwardness, result from misdistribution exasperated by man-made laws and systems. Proper distribution of resources will be sufficient enough to satisfy the basic needs of human, yet, Islam teach the followers to be grateful on what he has or own. In Islam, public revenue from oil and natural resources would be used to secure the needs of the whole Muslim ummah. The Khilafah would provide public and vital resources without charge to cover the needs of every individual and family, and monopolies that multinational corporations maintain to dictate the lives of the people would dissipate. Its contribution in developing the Islamic societies Implementing those principles discussed above can contribute in development of Islamic societies, as well as for the nation as a whole. When every Muslims contribute with the intention to help others, let say the contribution is gathered by the state, thus, with sufficient funds, the state would be able to provide for basic necessities of life such as food, clothing, shelter, education and healthcare to every citizen at a reasonable standard. The state would also discharge all of its duties of state welfare and would set up all big projects for economic development. Indirectly, it would provide employment to all those who are jobless. Besides, the state can performs such welfare activities like maintains social services, wages Jihad against the foreign aggression, maintains facilities like railways, road, waterways, bridges, as well as provides protection to the individual in respect of his life, honour and property. So whatever remains with a person after satisfaction of his needs in a moderate way, he would hand over this surplus to the state. Furthermore, because of Islam differentiates between the basic needs and luxuries, thus, teach the Muslim to fulfill the basic needs, and in the same time, must moderate in luxuries. Wealth is a test by God, and Muslims should strive to pass this test by not becoming worshipers of hoarded wealth. By passing this test, will increase ones faith and godliness. In addition, the affectivity with which the Islamic economic systems correctly defines economic problem and secures the needs of every individual, and eliminates all forms of economic and social corruption, would enable fuel for Islamic policy of the state that would enable the Khilafah to easily spread Islam ideologically throughout the world. Conclusion The economic problems that basically arise from scarcity are faced by all humans in this world. Human, by his nature, always has unlimited wants, yet own limited resources to fulfill his needs and wants. Choices must be made in accordance to his own preferences and priorities. However, Islam, as a unique religion, found some ways to control, if not totally solve this economic problems by its principles and guidelines to be practiced by Muslims as a way of life. Cooperation and implementation by the governing bodies such as state can help in the development of Islamic societies. Question No. ( 5 ) What is poverty? Generally, poverty can be defined through two distinct concepts: the absolute and the relative poverty concepts. The absolute poverty is usually associated with some income level required to sustain a minimum standard of living. That income level, defined as poverty line income is often used to determine whether an individual is poor or otherwise. The individual is considered poor if his income is below poverty line income. Meanwhile, the relative poverty concept is associated with the existence of an income gap between the poor and the non-poor. As long as there is a difference in income levels of any two individuals or groups, those with a lower income are considered poor. However, in Islamic point of view, one is considered poor if he does not possess sufficient necessities to fulfill his basic needs in each of the five foundations for good individual and social life, namely: (a) Religion, (b) Physical self, (c) Intellect or Knowledge, (d) Offspring, and (e) Wealth. All the five foundations or needs must be fulfilled, and if only one of the needs is not fulfilled, then one is still considered poor. In addition, poverty is also associated with the concept of nisab, which is one of the two prerequisites for a Muslim to pay the zakah. Using Below Poverty Line (BPL), this method functions as the basis of ownership of nisab, which limit makes one eligible for the payment of zakat. Anyone with wealth on or over the nisab is responsible for the payment of zakat. Thus, for those who wealth is below nisab are zakat recipients and they are treated as poor. Causes of Poverty. Several causes that may lead to poverty are considered, as follows: Exploitation of Economy Economic exploitation can be defined as the act of using another persons labor without offering them an adequate compensation. Thus, when the compensation received is inadequate to support life, one is unable to fulfill one or more of basic needs, and this can lead to poverty. Political Poverty can happen when one major party, usually politician or region that have authority or power on decision-making through out the country that often causes development problems. For example, in these situations politicians make decisions about places that they are unfamiliar with, or lacking sufficient knowledge about the context to design effective and appropriate policies and programs, leads to political instability. Interest/Riba/Corruption Unreasonable rate of interest due to loan made can burden borrower. Example is when International Monetary Fund (IMF) donors keep the exchange rates in their favor, it often means that the poor nations remain poor, or get even poorer. Meanwhile, corruption inhibits development when leaders help themselves to money that would otherwise be used for development projects. As a result, poverty can exists when people lives in scarcity due to not getting development that supposedly enjoyed by them. Warfare The material and human destruction that caused by warfare is a major development problem. Drop in average income due to strike in the well-being of the average Iraqi citizen in the aftermath of the war, leads to damages to the infrastructure and social services, such as health care and access to clean water. Agricultural Cycles People who rely on fruits and vegetables that they produce for household food consumption (subsistence farmers) often go through cycles of relative abundance and scarcity. For many families that rely on subsistence production for survival, the period immediately prior to harvest is a hungry period. During these periods of scarcity, many families lack sufficient resources to meet their minimal nutritional needs. Natural Disasters Immediate destruction caused by natural events such as hurricanes, droughts, earthquake, flooding as well as environmental forces often cause acute periods of crisis by destroying crops and animals. Thus, people may loss their homes and properties, and lack of resources even to fulfill their basic needs of living. Developing countries often much more suffer at the hands of natural disasters, because limited resources inhibit the construction of adequate housing, infrastructure, and mechanisms for responding to crises. Prohibited industries Prohibition industries such as gambling, alcohol and tobacco can encourage one to waste their money for these unlawful activities. Worsen situation, one may borrow money in order to satisfy this bad habits, and this can lead to poverty. Role of Citizen in Alleviating Poverty from Islamic Perspective. Being Muslim every citizen has some responsibilities; Muslims in the world are some of the richest. If this wealth is used as per the direction of Allah we can alleviate poverty. Islam as system and way of life is based on collective responsibility of society, ethics and principles. If  we follow it we will be able remove the poverty from the society. Some of the citizens roles in alleviating poverty are as follows: 1.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Zakah- Zakah is the fourth of five pillars of Islam and hence is obligatory on every Muslim, who fulfills the stipulated conditions, to pay. Being a pillar of Islam, it has to be paid and collected whether the destitute and the poor exist in society or not. As such it is indeed a permanent source of revenue for the alleviation of the destitute and the poor. 2.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Sadaqa Sadaqat is a very wide term and is used in the Quran to cover all kinds of charity. It is as simplest as when one gives smile, acts of loving kindness, utters a kindly word to others or even greeting

Qualitative and Quantitative Research Essay

Quantitative research involves collecting numerical data though content analysis, performance tests, personality measures, questionnaires, etc. Quantitative research allows for experimental and non-experimental research. Experimental research tests cause and effect, while non-experimental research, such as, correlation research, relates variables, and survey research describes trends. There are three basic types of quantitative research questions: descriptive research questions, correlational research questions, and causal research questions. However, research involves collecting word data though interviews, open-ended questionnaires, observations, content analysis, focus groups, etc. Qualitative research can explore common experience (Grounded Theory Research), shared culture (Ethnography), an environment (Case Study), or an individual (Narrative Research). Both type of research ask research questions, focus on type of data, and have variables. Research Questions Research Questions are clear, concise, and arguable questions. A qualitative research question â€Å"explores a central concept or phenomenon† (Schreiber 2012). An example of a qualitative research question is how do African American male elementary students read popular fiction written by Caucasian female authors? This is an ethnographic research question that will explore hared culture of a group of people. Differently, a quantitative research question â€Å"relates attributes or characteristics of individuals or organizations† (Schreiber 2012). There are three basic types of quantitative research questions: descriptive research questions, correlational research questions, and causal research questions. Descriptive research questions describe variables being studied. An example of descriptive research question is does reading popular fiction increase test scores in elementary students? This research question is an experimental research question that tests the cause and effect. Another research question is the correlational research question, which relates variables. An example of correlational research question is do elementary students who read popular fiction has a higher test scores than those who do not read popular fiction? This is also a correlation research that relate variables. The final basic type of  quantitative research question is the causal research question. Causal research questions test for a cause and effect relationship between variables. An example of causal research questions is all other factors being equal, do elementary students reading popular fiction achieve better test scores than students reading curriculum-required fiction? This is also an experimental research question that tests the cause and effect. Variables Quantitative research and qualitative research have variables; a variable is any measured characteristic or attribute that differs for different subjects (Lane 2006). Variable can be either independent (IV), or dependent (DV). An independent variable is a variable that remain the same, but the researcher manipulates a dependent variable. Additionally, there are covariate (CoV) relates variable, is related to the DV, and is also a predictor value. In the example of a qualitative research question is how do African American male elementary students read assigned popular fiction written by Caucasian female authors? the IV is gender, age, and ethnicity, the DV is the assigned popular fiction, and the CoV is socioeconomic status. In the example of a quantitative research question is does reading assigned popular fiction increase test scores in elementary students? the IV is the age, gender, and ethnicity, the DV is assigned popular fiction, and the CoV is socioeconomic status. An example of the quantitative research question is do elementary students who read assigned popular fiction has a higher test scores than those who do not read popular fiction? the IV is age, gender, and ethnicity, the DV is assigned popular fiction, and the CoV is socioeconomic status. The final example of a quantitative research question is do elementary students reading assigned popular fiction achieve better test scores than students reading curriculum-required fiction? the IV is age, ethnicity, and gender, the DV is assigned popular fiction and curriculum-required fiction, and the CoV is socio-economic status. Type of Data Quantitative research uses Ordinal, Ratio, or Interval Scale, while  qualitativew research uses Nominal Scale. Both nominal and ordinal data are categorical, but interval and ratio data are continuous. In the example of a qualitative research question is how do African American male elementary students read assigned popular fiction written by Caucasian female authors? That data is nominal. Nominal data is categorical. Nominal data is consists of assigning items to groups or categories that cannot be related to each other (StatSoft 2010). The nominal data is African American and male, a well as Caucasian and female. Moreover, in the example of a quantitative research question is does reading assigned popular fiction increase test scores in elementary students? that data is interval. Interval data rank order, but also quantify and compare the sizes of differences between them (StatSoft 2010). Interval data is continuous. The interval data is the test scores, because they can be higher or lower, but it is not known how much higher. An example of the quantitative research question is do elementary students who read assigned popular fiction has a higher test scores than those who do not read popular fiction? that data is ratio data. Ratio data is continuous. Ratio data rank order, but also quantify and compare the sizes of differences between them. Ratio data has an absolute zero and allows for how many times greater. The research can find out how many times greater are the test scores of elementary student who read popular fiction than those who did not. The final example of a quantitative research question is do elementary students reading popular fiction achieve better test scores than students reading curriculum-required fiction? that data is ratio data. Like the question above, the research can discover how many times greater are the test scores of elementary student wh o read popular fiction than those who did not. Conclusion Both type of research ask research questions, focus on type of data, and have variables. Quantitative research uses an objective/unbiased approach to collecting numerical data from participants and analyzes these numbers using statistics in order to answer a specific, narrow research question. On the other hand, qualitative research uses a subjective/biased approach to collecting words from participants and analyzes/describes these words in  order to answer a broad, general research question. Bibliography †¢Lane, D.M. (2006, June). Glossary. Rice Virtual Lab in Statistics Retrieved January 31, 2014, from http://davidmlane.com/hyperstat/glossary.html †¢Research Methods ** Available in the Presentations section. †¢Schreiber, Deborah Ph.D. 2012 Research Methods in Education †¢StatSoft, Inc. (2010). Electronic Statistics Textbook. Elementary Concepts. Retrieved January 31, 2014, from http://www.statsoft.com/textbook/elementary-concepts-in-statistics/?button=1