Average education on workers and opening business time in Tel aviv Essay

Average education on workers and opening business time in Tel aviv - Essay Example Investors should also register their companies with tax authority where all the necessary details of the company should be provided by filling form number 4436. A corporate tax should be paid to the Israel tax authority. Moreover, investors should also be aware of the social security contribution for their employees. The law requires employers to withhold some part of their employee’s income and submit it to the National Insurance Institute for purpose of providing employees with a medical cover. Finally, investors should be aware of the two types of incentives provided by the Israel government to encourage investors namely; declining corporate tax and investment incentives (Ministry of Economy State In Israel, pp.1-3) The average education on workers is 83 percent among men and women between the age of 25 and 64 years who have attained an equivalent of high school degree. Research indicates that having a good education is an important factor of getting a good job in Israel. Research further indicates that the quality of education score stood at an average of four hundred and ninety seven whereby average boys perform less than girls by eleven points (Publishing and OECD,

Great man and theory of leadership

Great man and theory of leadership   The main idea behind Great Man theory is that leaders cannot be made, for they are born leaders (Great Man Theory, Assumptions, n.d.). The supporters of the great man theory concentrated mainly on well known historical political and military leaders (Leadership Theories, The Great Man Theory,  ¶1). They also claimed that unexpected events, like for instance war, can also cause sudden rise of the leader, among which one could list Napoleon Bonaparte, George Washington, or even Adolf Hitler, who managed to gain support of the majority of the population. But even centuries earlier, humankind witnessed historical events used to support the concept of the great leader theory, like for instance Moses (Great Man Theory, Description, n.d), who was seen as the only one capable of freeing Israelites.   The leaders, who fall into the group of the great man, were perceived not only as heroic but also mythic, possessing specific traits (Leadership Theories, The Great Man Theory,  ¶2). On the other hand, because people posses different traits, it was impossible for the great man theory supporters to establish an universal model of the great man, characterized by common values and the same number of traits. Nevertheless, those who support Trait Theory believe that a set of universal traits of leaders can be established (Leadership Theories, Trait Theory,  ¶4), and people who make good leaders have the right ‘or sufficient combination of traits (Trait Leadership Theory, 12Manage, Assumptions of Trait Theory,  ¶3). Basically, if one can identify people to have the certain traits, the traits falling into the Trait Theory boundary, then leaders can be easily identified (Shead,  ¶1).   Clawthon (1996,  ¶5) writes that â€Å"fate or providence was a major determinant of the course of history, the contention that leaders are born, not made was widely accepted, not only by scholars, but by those attempting to influence the behavior of others†. According to him, the Great Man theory has been abounded due to the increased interest in the behavioral sciences, and to the claim that if not everyone, then many, can be trained to become leaders through enhancing their abilities, for â€Å"nurture is far more important than nature in determining who becomes a successful leader† (1996,  ¶6). One could say that one of the reason behind abounding The Great Man and Trait Theory was also the fact that instead to concentrate on effective leadership it looked into what possible could make a great leader. It fully focused on leader, omitting the importance of the followers (Leadership Theories, Weaknesses,  ¶1 ), who might look for a certain traits in their le aders and abound them if failed to find. Among those desired traits are honesty, inspiration, forward-looking, competency, and intelligence (Shead,  ¶6).

Madonna Kolbenschlags Lost in the Land of Oz Essay -- Madonna Kolbens

Madonna Kolbenschlag's Lost in the Land of Oz "In "Lost in the Land of Oz", Madonna Kolbenschlag explores the way old societal myths, which are created from the metaphors in our life, are no longer useful in today's society. The author believes we need to embrace the ego archetype of the orphan, the most influential metaphor for the self, in order to become a whole and complete person. Madonna Kolbenschlag discusses how our society is particularly hostile towards women, resulting in an acute feeling of self-loathing, doubt, loneliness, and guilt. Today, women as the orphan feel a complete sense of powerlessness and abandonment, not only by everyone around her but also by God. Instead of suppressing our anxiety, Kolbenschlag advises that we should deal with it and remove the hidden layers of denial. We need to befriend the orphan within us and through all of this we will grasp a new insight and develop new spiritual consciousness. I feel the book is geared more towards women reclaiming their cultural and spiritual power. Chapter Four, "Women-Out of the Cave, Into the Desert," discusses this issue, including the modern problems facing women and some solutions. Today, women struggle to rediscover and reconcile their new societal roles with their feminine identity. In the book, Kolbenschlag uses Dorothy of the "Wizard of Oz" as the feminine model that must confront the psychological challenges along her path in order to reintegrate her true feminine self. (p.20) Women are orphaned in so many ways by our society, but through realizing certain truths can we befriend the orphan within us. Previously, Kolbenschlag felt that there were only two levels of feminine consciousness: those asleep and those who were awaking. (p.78) However, in today's society distinguishing these levels have become more complex. Through her "liberation index," she identifies the five levels of feminine awareness of modern times, which are innocence, denial, escape, defection, and deviance. Many young women are in the first stage of innocence because they have been sheltered from the realities of life, coming from a "picture perfect" life. Poor women are also in this stage because they believe that their reality is the only way of being for them. In the level of denial, women recognize their options, but feel that it is more beneficial for them to stay in their present state. On... ...d independence is another great dilemma that I think many women go through, especially those in professional arenas and takes many of them a long time to resolve the two. Growing up in a matriarchal family, my mother has always instilled through actions the need for a woman to be independent. She raised my sister and I alone and I have seen her struggle with this dilemma, when she remarried. As Kolbenschlag said, often dependency is equated to domination, which is not what most women want. I think that sometimes everyone wishes that they had someone that they could lean on, especially through trying times, but that doesn't mean they want that person to take over the situation. I also do not believe that for a woman to be considered "independent" she must give up her femininity and individuality. In my opinion a male-dominated society has no authority to dictate the characteristics of femininity to a woman. As a conscious, young man, I know that are many obstacles in the path of women, some involving race and others gender. I am a combination of many characteristics, values, and beliefs. While I do not think I am ready to befriend my inner orphan yet, I know one day I will be.

Ann Taylor External Analysis

How is the industry structured? The industry could be defined a specialty retailer chain store which concentrates to a certain type of customer or carries certain type of goods. Sectors Discounted mass merchandisers: big chains , Multitier department stores: offering a large variety of goods, including clothing. Specialty store chains: those catering to a certain type of customer or carrying a certain type of good.Market Size and Growth The National Retail Federation reported that the retail niches showing the greater growth were department stores, stores catering to the teenage children of baby boomers, and apparel chains aimed to women over 35. The industry retail industry is big but the specialty retailer is small. $45. 9 billion of total $108. 7 billion women’s clothing purchases in 2009. Major firms are reporting down sales during the past quarters. Economic of Scale Fouth firms dominated the industry, which indicate that large firms have an advantage and economic of scal es are present.To enjoy economic of scales specialty retail stores create use brand extension to appeal to different segments (production) ad brand expansion (marketing) Vertical Integration Some of the bigger fashion companies are vertically integrated with their line of production so as to be able to shorten production cycle and be able to adapt to the current demand as well as customer satisfaction. Integrated manufacturing, distribution and retail together, with every step of the process done in-house and not replying on outsourcing. From designing and marketing, fabric storage to warehouse distribution and retail,Degree of Product Differentiation Unlike department stores that sell many different types of products for many types of customers, specialty retailers focus on one type of product item and offer many varieties of that item. Always looking for new segments which can create a branding problem. The product differentiation is low because the product can be produce by other firms. Companies need to compete in price. These dominant economic traits indicate that the structure of this industry is difficult to earn a positive income because is a small industry segment and is dominated by large firms.What kinds of competitive forces are at work? Threat of new entrants – low * Is easy to enter in the retail industry but hard in specialty retail. Majority of stores are chain stores. Their vertical structure and centralized buying gives chain stores a competitive advantage over independent retailers. If a company has a patent for a product is difficult to enter to the industry. Bargaining power of buyers – moderate * The industry sells directly to customers, consumes are free to shop anywhere but there a few alternatives. This makes the industry more attractive.Bargaining power of suppliers – low * Specialty retail stores are segmented and suppliers can influence price, quality, and terms. Is a small part of a whole industry, if supplies decided that the segment does not represent a significant fraction of its sales they can exert power. Apparel stores are known to have a higher quality standard, if suppliers don’t meet this standard they could get dropped from their line. Threat of substitutes – low * Clothing is common known as the basic need for human life. It is a kind of necessity and is hard to find substitutes to replace the function.Basically, apparel products are no major different in nature, but the main differentiation may come from the brands. So, the treat of substitutes seems not an important factor. Intensity of rivalry – high * There are a lot of brands existing in the market. They try to differentiate themselves in order to find their niche and decrease competition, but nonetheless in every niche there are 3-5 direct competitors of different size, but in some locations there are only 1-2 firms and so these locations are quite attractive to the new entrants.Competition primarily based on the customer image that firm created and quality, price is the second thing. E-commerce also forces competition because it seriously increases availability of the product in any location. Value-Net * Target a celebrity that is known to ware specialty products. Partner with a magazine who target women over 35 but they were luxury clothes. Partner with other high quality products like cars and phones. Is an extreme competitive industry and there are few complements that would provide options to expand the size of the market. What forces are driving change? Luxury fashion spending was up 35 % in 2010, while mainstream fashion gained 8 % overall. +, Great growth of department stores+, 2009 worse holiday season generate a wave of retail closures among many well- known brands. -, 2008 women’s clothes retailer had felt downturn and lost customers and cause shoppers to cut back on purchases. -, Customer had shown a clear preference for select high-end apparel willing to pay a premium on something that delivers luxury+ Spending in valued-oriented stores has been stable- China wages increase were causing inflation in merchandise manufacturing. Over the next few days is going to be rare for specialty apparel retailer to return to its historical level of profitability. – Over all the trends seem to be negative making the industry more comperative. 4. Which rivals are strongly positioned and which are not? What strategic moves are rivals likely to make next? Ann Taylor ANN History: Since 1954, Ann Taylor has been the wardrobe source for busy, socially upscale women, and the classic basic black dress. , Contained two division segments: AT and LOFT, In 1998 Ann Taylor created the Ann Taylor Factory, 2000 online store was launched.Goals: improving profitability while enhancing both brands. Restoring performance at the Ann Taylor division and. Restoring the momentum at LOFT. Performance: the stock responded with new highs, moving to a peak of over $40 in late 2006, but the stock price retreated in 2007 and 2008. At the end of 2010 the 4th quarter results indicated sales had jumped 10 % from 2009 and although gross margins fell to 51. 7 % from 52. 5 a year early earning per share had nearly quadrupled.Has suffer manager turnover Next Move: increase traffic to the Ann Taylor brand and future enhancing the brand experience. Improving the LOFT brand stores channel and continue to capitalize on the potencial o the online and outlet channels. Investing in the growth of ecommerce channel. Renovating stores to increase productivity. Implement technology for inventory Talbot TLB History: Acquired J. Jill group in 2006 – specialty retailer offering casual fashion through multichannel targeting women age 35 to 55 and Talbot targeting women age 45 to 65.Decided to sell J. Jill in 2009 in the wake of retailing’s â€Å"abysmal holiday season† They have problems integrating both firms They we suffering with inventory that was too â€Å"mature† Goals: Brand s target high-income, college educated professional over 35. Performance: Sales dropped in 2010 by 1. 6 percent, but online and direct sales had increase 9. 8 to 6. 7. CEO was expending that the web channels would spark growth. Inventory turnover 4. 87 and operating margin -1. 31 Next Move: Implement technology for inventory.Open new channels for distribution. Target a different niche 6. What are the key factors for future success? The critical requirements to compete in this industry are: * Maintain quality in merchandise mix: Requires right product mix, And also increase the inventory turnover ratio, Requires to stay up with fashion trends * Remarkable customer service: Quick response to customers, And pay extra attention to customers’ needs * Control inventory: Keep merchandise in 3 price lines budget, off price and moderate.Create a computer system to maintain control of inventory and improve productivity * Marketing: Established a r ecognized brand. Explore different niches markets Create different distribution channels 7. Is the industry attractive? In conclusion the retail industry is lack of substitutes, easy to entry, the bargain power of buyers is high and for suppliers relatively low. Overall, the attractiveness of the industry is quite favorable. | Local/regional| National/global| New entrant| yes| yes| Established firm| yes| yes|

Feminist View on Society

Feminist views on society; Feminists believe that society is male dominated (patriarchal). Feminists want women and men to have equal rights and powers as there is inequality between the two sexes. They look at society on a macro scale so the ideas are generalised to the whole of society. Feminists also believe that society is based on disagreement and conflict between the sexes as women believe they have been disadvantaged in society.Liberal feminists believe that men and women are becoming more equal in society, and that the inequality between men and women was caused due to sexist laws and the differences in socialisation. They believe that in order abolish feminism people need to be brought up differently and all sexist laws need to be gotten rid of. Marxist feminists believe that women are still unequal in society and that women are there to benefit capitalism by being unpaid housewives. They look on the family in a negative and critical way as they feel this is what caused thei r oppression along with capitalism.As they gave up work to take care of children and had housework responsibilities, thus becoming dependent on their husbands for money and everything else. Marxist feminists believe that in order for there to be equality between the sexes capitalism needs to be abolished and replaced with a communist society. Radical feminists also believe that men and women are still unequal in society and that men benefit more from family life. They believe that they are exploited by men and the patriarchal society. Some radical feminists believe that the solution is separation.Feminism does have some criticism’s for example they tend to overlook the fact that the general position of women in society has changed over time and this can only be explained in terms of economic and political changes in society. They also fail to understand that fundamentally society is unequal in its economic and social structure, and that equal opportunity is a fairly meaningle ss concept as society is divided by class and economic exploitation. Women as well as working class men are at an economic disadvantage.

Analytical Essay Sample on Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

Analytical Essay Sample on Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte The influence of childhood in its different ways, on the major characters in Emily Brontes Wuthering Heights can be seen as a pervasive theme throughout the novel. Through an exploration of the relationship between the main characters, the theme of childhoods influence is apparent. It can be said, as noted by Steve Davies, that the childhood of both protagonists Heathcliffe and Catherine, haunts them in their adult lives thus affecting their interactions with and their behavior towards other people in a negative way. However, through Brontes portrayal of Hareton and the younger Catherine, the redeeming qualities of the human spirit prevails as they overcome negative influences and memories of their childhood. They emerge at the conclusion of the novel as characters who are not haunted by their childhood and its refusal to die away, but as two people who have overcome adverse conditions in their past by seeking to improve their existence and personalities It is evident in the novel through Emily Brontes portrayal of the character of Heathcliff, that revenge which stems from Heathcliffs relationships as a child, motivates him to become vindictive throughout his adulthood. Heathcliff is introduced to the Earnshaw family upon Mr Earnshaw finding him in the streets of Liverpool, as an orphan. His introduction to the other Earnshaw family members is not well received, Heathcliff is referred to as it and is unwelcome by the Earnshaw children, Hindley and Catherine. This highlights a very unpleasant start to Heathcliffs childhood in the Earnshaw household. Heathcliff develops a particularly negative relationship with Hindley, this starts at childhood and continues into adulthood. From the day Heathcliff enters the Earnshaw house Heathcliff felt nothing but hate from Hindley, the beatings and ill treatment that Hindley instilled on him, hardened Heathcliff and he formed a similar hatred for Hindley. An example of his unpleasant relationship can be seen when Mr Earnshaw gave Heathcliff and Hindley colts, on finding that his lame, Heathcliff informs Hindley, You must exchange horses with me; I dont like mine, and if you wont I shall tell your father of the three thrashings youve given me this week, and show him my arm, which is black to the shoulder. at which Hindley, cuffs him over the ears, this argument concludes in Hindley beating Heathcliff but handing over his horse with a hateful remark, take my coltand I pray that he may break your neck. In the end Heathcliff achieves what he wants. This transcends into Heathcliffs adulthood and revenge motivates Heathcliff into returning to Wuthering Heights, as an adult to, settle my score with Hindley. He achieves this by aiding Hindleys gambling, eventually taking away his home, resulting in Hindley dying in debt thus leaving Hindleys son Hareton in Heathcliffs custody. Heathcliffs relationship with Hareton, allows Heathcliff to distinguish himself in Hareton, Hareton seemed a personification of my youth. and in some ways Heathcliff wishes him to be the kind of son he wanted but never had Id have loved the lad had he been some one else.   Even though he empathizes with Hareton, he can not treat Hareton with kindness as he can not put aside the animosity, anger, and resentment he feels, which results from Hindleys behavior towards him as a child. Though initially unwelcome by Catherine, within a short period of time Heathcliff and Catherine form a very close bond, this relationship is the only positive relationship in Heathcliffs life, he loves her unconditionally and holds Catherine in high regard. she is so immeasurably superior to them to everybody on earth This immense love for Catherine carries on into Heathcliffs adulthood. Heathcliffs departure from the Earnshaw house occurs on the evening of Catherines proposal to Edgar, he overhears her conversation with Nelly, upon hearing Catherine say, it would degrade me to marry Heathcliff , Heathcliff takes flight heartbroken. He returns to Thrushcross Grange an established gentlemen, unable to let go of this undying love for Catherine Ive fought through a bitter life since I last heard your voice, and you must forgive me, for I struggled only for you! Catherine has made him suffer by marrying Edgar. Heathcliffs vindictive nature is brought to the surface when a confrontation with Catherine mentions his plan of revenge I want you to be aware that I know you have treated me infernally infernally!and if you fancy Ill suffer unrevenged, Ill convince you of the contrary, in a very little while! Heathcliffs love for Catherine is a major motivator for his revenge on Edgar, who Heathcliff envied as a child, for taking away Catherine from him, for he thought that Catherine preferred Edgars company to his as Edgar was more refined. I wish I had light hair and fair skin, was dressed and behaved as well and had a chance of being as rich as he will be! Heathcliff returns to Thrushcross Grange, his love for Catherine still apparent which developed at childhood, cannot escape him, determined to see Catherine when he heard that she is gravely ill, upon him seeing her, he pours his heart out to her I have not broken your heart you have broken it and in breaking it , you have broken minewould you like to live with your soul in the grave? It is there last meeting before her death which took place shortly after the birth of her child the younger Catherine, this makes Heathcliff feel that the child just born has taken away his Catherine, Heathcliffs vengeful nature motivates him to revenge those who interferes with his relationship with Catherine, and his plan of revenge takes a new turn, to now involve the younger Catherine I want the triumph of seeing my descendants fairly lord of their estates; my child hiring their children to till their fathers land for wages, he does this this by manipulating the younger Catherine into falling in love with his son Linton then forcing them to marry, so upon Edgars death he gains his revenge on Edgar through taking away his daughter and his estate. Even though he revenges Edgar, for taking away his Catherine, the immense love he holds for Catherine haunts him, she is his only weakness and he cannot overcome his love for her, he dies heartbroken. The character of Catherine can be compared to Heathcliff, as she also cannot escape her childhood, and a love that initiates then and carries onto adulthood, thus affecting her relationships and interactions with other people in her life. Catherine Earnshaw was brought up in a well respected family home, as a child she was accustomed to the finer things in life, which brings about her being spoilt and mischievous, and illustration of this is the night her father returns with Heathcliff, as she had asked her father for a whip before his departure, and on his return finding that he had lost it while attending Heathcliff she spits on Heathcliff. Eventually Catherine becomes much too fond of Heathcliff, and she spends her day running away with Heathcliff, and on one certain day, they end up at Thrushcross Grange, this results in Catherine hurting her ankle, at which the Lintons keep her for five weeks , Catherine returned to Wuthering Heights a very dignified person, she becomes superficial in her materialism and all things nice, such being her new friends the Linton children, Edgar and Isabella. Her relationship with Heathcliff never completely returns to being the same, since her time away at the Lintons, but she still holds him close to her heart. As she grows into a young women she keeps up her acquaintance with Edgar Linton, as he is soft and beautiful, but compared to Heathcliff, Edgar with all his superiority, found it difficult to make an equally deep impression to Catherine. Her friendship with Edgar turns into a proposal of marriage, she consents even though she loves him for the wrong reasons, when Nelly tries to advise her he wont always be handsome and young, and may not always be rich, she replies with he is now; and I have only to do with the present'. She marries Edgar even though she is not suited to him in personality, and does not love him in the way she loves Heathcliff but as she recognizes the dishonorable elements in Heathcliffs personality, his harshness, the fact that he is not refined and could never be a gentlemen, and despite all this still loves him, she feels she can not marry him, as she can not continue to lead the life she has become accustomed to. As an adult Catherines relationship with Edgar, is overshadowed by her extreme love for Heathcliff. An example of this is when an encounter between Edgar and Heathcliff, results in Catherine announcing, Id rather see Edgar at bay than you. Catherine cannot escape her love for Heathcliff, which started at childhood and still exists in her adulthood, despite her marriage to Edgar, and in betraying her heart for her own selfish reasons, such as her love for all things fine and beautiful, she too dies heartbroken. In contrast to the characters of Heathcliff and Catherine, is Emily Brontes representation of the characters of Hareton and the younger Catherine known as Cathy. Hareton who in spite of his ill treatment by Heathcliff in his childhood, he is not motivated by revenge, but motivated to defeat Heathcliffs damaging influences, and better his character in his adulthood. And Cathy, unlike her mother, looks past the unrefined nature of Hareton, and follows her heart, in marrying him. Hareton has a fairly unstable start in childhood, shortly after his birth his mother dies and at a fairly young age he copes with the death of his father Hindley. Hareton like Heathcliff is left an orphan. With the death of his father, Hareton is left in a predicament, the sole chance for the natural heir is to allow him an opportunity of creating some interest in the creditors heart, that he may be inclined to deal leniently towards him. This results in Hareton reduced to a state of complete dependance on his fathers inveterate enemy; he lives in his own house a servant deprived of the advantage of wages. Despite living in these conditions, Hareton still holds a place in his heart for Heathcliff, an example of this is on the morning of finding of Heathcliffs body, Hareton, the most wronged, was the only one that really suffered much. He sat by the corpse all night, weepinghe pressed its hand, and kissed the sarcastic, savage, face, Hareton loves Heathcliff like a father figure despite the way he treated him. When Cathy comes to stay at Wuthering Heights, she teases Hareton, commenting on his stupidity, but only to get his attention,and despite her unfair treatment on him, he dismisses it and forms a close bond with her, Hareton improves himself by allowing her to teach him how to read, he eventually falls in love with Cathy and in doing so, he overcomes the manipulation of Heathcliff, and hence becoming a respectable young man with every thing rightfully his restored to him. Cathy had the most stable childhood in the novel Wuthering Heights, though she did not have her mother, Nelly was an adequate female role model, Cathy was accustomed to the finer things in life, and was dearly loved by her father Edgar, and she loved him equally. Her father trusted her to no one elseWuthering Heights and Mr Heathcliff did not exist for hershe was a perfect recluse; and perfectly contended. But as a curious young women she eventually, came across the house and its inhabitants, and in doing so she became part of Heathcliffs plans, she falls for Linton and his pretty looks but seeing that he was weak did not love him, and was forced into the marriage by Heathcliff. In staying at Wuthering Heights after her husbands death, she at first treats Hareton rather shamefully, laughing heartily at his failures, and disrespecting him for he was not refined as she. But as she is lonely , she soon puts aside her arrogance, when I call you stupid I dont mean anything I dont mean that I despise you. She makes friends with Hareton eventually falling for in love with him, their intimacy commenced, grew rapidly;both their minds tending to the same point one loving and desiring to esteem; and the other loving and desiring to be esteemed they contrived in the end to reach it. Despite coming from a well respected home, never seeing herself as a child marrying someone as unrefined as Hareton, falls in love with him and his generous heart thus improving her personality, in so becoming a kind young women. Here is a list of the most popular essay topics on Wuthering Heights: Polar Opposites in Wuthering Heights How Emily Bronte uses the first 3 chapters of Wuthering Heights to create foreboding Othello vs Wuthering Heights The use of setting in Wuthering Heights Discuss the importance of setting in Wuthering Heights. Examine the use of buildings, landscape, weather and the elements to reflect the nature How does Bronte Create an Appropriate Atmosphere and Background to the Events of â€Å"Wuthering Heights† in the First Movement? Characteristics of two of the main characters in Wuthering Heights The Development of Catherine and Heathcliffe’s Relationship from Chapter 7 of Wuthering Heights Quarrel in Chap. 8 of Wuthering Heights Wuthering Heights and Evil Villain

What is the role and importance of Friar Lawrence which lead to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet Essay Example

What is the role and importance of Friar Lawrence which lead to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet Essay Example What is the role and importance of Friar Lawrence which lead to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet Essay What is the role and importance of Friar Lawrence which lead to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet Essay Romeo and Juliet are emblems of true love that have been used over the years as icons for other lovers who found themselves torn in half like them, many of whom faced a similar ill-fated end. The ingredients of a tragedy are all sewn into this play, which is unusual for Shakespeare as most of his work in the early years was comedies and historical plays. The heroes in this story portray excess courage, arrogance and ambition.They took life changing decisions despite their tender age. The affects of the play on the audience is cleansing as they feel pity and terror. In my opinion the reason for the lovers downfall lies outside the actions of any characters and ultimately in the workings of fate which is referred to several times throughout the play. Romeo and Juliet is considered a tragedy by many as it fits in with the requirements set out by Aristotle. Shakespeare used a variet of sources for this drama. The story of Romeo and Julliet is taken from the poem a Tragical history of Ro meus and Juliet.We are going to study at first hand the role played by Friar Lawrence which contributed to the lovers death. We will begin by looking at what his ideal role in the communtiy would have been. We will also look at his character, and the motives behind the actions he took. However before we analyse the Friar we must study the social backround of the play.Italy at that time was regarded as a passionate and wealthy place; hence an ideal setting for this tragedy. Love is as you would expect the plays central and most significant theme. Shakespeare helps to depict love in many different forms; it is aggressive, euphoric, intense, and without doubt overcomes all other ethics and morals. Shakespeare uses religion to illustrate the lovers passion, This holy shrine. whereas at other times love is described as a sort of magic: Alike bewitched by the charm of looks. Juliet perhaps most perfectly describes her love for Romeo by refusing to describe it: I cannot sum up sum of half my wealth. Love, in other words resists any single metaphor as it is too powerful to be contained with words. Their love and infatuation with each other caused the young lovers to challenge their family name, Deny thy father and refuse thy name, and Juliet asks, Or if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, and Ill no longer be a Capulet.The social institutions at that time regarded marriage as way of gaining status and economic stability. Early on Shakespeare introduced a society that prefigures capitalism, one that is heavily influenced by material exchange. The people of Verona relied on pride, honour and money, even when the item in question was love. When speaking of marriage the Capulets use language full of economic expressions. Capulets instructions to Paris are that; Inherit at my house. Hear all, all see, and like her most whose merit most shall be; which one more view, of many, mine being one. Lady Capulet also refers to the relationship between Paris and her daughter as a n egotiation when she explains to Juliet how she may, By having him she would be making herself no less.This economically driven society alienated spiritual concerns leading to a gloomy peace prevailing. Love in that era was a commodity such as goods and services. Parents fully expected to make money on their trade.Honour was also a central issue for the people of Verona, a person would have to side with their family even if they were in the wrong or face being seen as a traitor. Romeo and Juliet went against their family honour by marrying an enemy. But the social emphasis placed on masculine honour was so profound that Romeo could not merely ignore the dispute just because he loves Juliet. It dictated his irrational behaviour that took another life and separated the families further. Both were in a constant dilemma between the responsibilities and actions demanded by the social institutions, and those demanded by their private desires. Romeos sense of honour leads him to find the pr iest so he can marry them.In the sixteenth century the priest was seen as a person who was willing to dedicate his whole life to religion, a man of God and a bound between local communities. They played a fundamental role in their communities especially in times of conflict, where their judgement and judicious advice was principal. Laurence is presented as a holy man who was trusted and respected by all the other characters. Capulets comment about the Friar that all our whole city is much bound to him is an ironic acknowledgment as he played an important role in the many disastrous events which followed and abused his trusted role. Thus the Friar is centrally placed with close ties to everyone enabling him to carry out his plans without questioning. His knowledge of Greek mythology and his great understanding of plants show Friar Lawrences high level of education as he speaks of the Greek God Titan.The first speech for the Friar is very important; it is both rhythmic and calm. It en ables the audience to create their first impressions and establishes a standard for the Friar which he tries to maintain, but sadly fails. The regularity of the speech calms someone in to a feeling of acceptance as he is expressing the conventional attitudes of a priest, not his own, and one feels a sense of falseness. Shakespeare uses the Friars language to manipulate the audiences feelings towards him. The words are all used for effect and we question the real wisdom and knowledge of the Friar.Friar Lawrence has a vast knowledge of plants and flowers, and grows a magnificent garden, he is first introduced as an apothecary rather then a Friar, which is the historical name for a medical practitioner who formulates and dispenses medication. He remarks that every plant and herb has its own special properties, and that nothing exists in nature that cannot be put to both good and bad use.Thus, poison is not intrinsically evil but is instead a natural material made lethal by human hands. Here poison symbolizes human societys predisposition to poison good things and make them lethal, In man as well as herbs grace and rude will, just as the futile Capulet-Montague dispute turns Romeo and Juliets love to poison. Ironically the Friars own words and thoughts are depicted over the course of the play as the events unfold. Unlike many of the other tragedies, this play does not have an evil villain, but rather people whose good qualities are turned to poison by the world in which they live in.The Friar chooses to concern himself with the health of the body and mind, so he chooses to use only those herbs which are not harmful he says that naught so vile on the earth doth live, but to the earth some special good doth give. The apothecary on the other hand, does not worry about Romeos spiritual or physical health, and so he chooses to use his herbs for the sale of all substances, including poisons. Shakespeare contrasts the Friars hopefulness with the harsher material world of Verona, placing him and the apothecary on two opposite sides, thus where the Friar fails, the apothecary steps in with a quick remedy. While the Friar has botanical supplies to aid in his medical work, including a basket of willows, baleful weeds, and precious-juiced flowers, the apothecarys shop contains objects only for show or for superficial use. Even attitudes towards the shops are different.Romeo remarks on the apothecarys shop with obvious neglect, as it is full of dusty boxes and very few actual items are set up to try to attract customers. Shakespeares presentation of the Friars cell and garden characterizes a philosopher and healer, and the apothecarys shop an unsuccessful salesman. Thus the audience is forced to compare the two figures and note their remarkable differences. The play uses the priests fading holistic medicine to show how economic materialism has made the apothecary a less charitable medical practitioner. The Friars experience of plants enabled him to carry out his second role as poison commissioner, without him Juliet would not have been able to fake her own death.The Friar is a close friend and advisor to Romeo and has a huge influence on his decisions, this is apparent when Romeo addresses the Friar as father and the Friar addresses Romeo as his son. The Friar makes all the important decisions with regards to Romeo and Juliet, and what ever he advises them they follow to the book. Romeo on numerous occasions seeks help and consolation from the Friar. When Romeo comes to tell Friar Lawrence about his engagement, the Friar offers wise pieces of advice, young mens love lies in their eyes meaning Romeo should love Juliet for who she is and not how she looks.He also tells Romeo that women may fall when there is no strength in men, meaning that if he is not stable and constant Juliet may become inconstant herself, and thinks that Romeo may be blinded by love. this allows the reader to depict and build up an image of a friar who is unders tanding, rational and a man who understands the need of moderation especially in the case of Romeo and Juliet not the stereotyped friars we see now a days in society, his holy understanding of religion also is reinforced when the nurse was astounded by the friars speech and stayed the night to hear good counsel. This portrays to the reader the manner he spoke provided motivating guidance.Children at that time were subservient to the adults in the family; they were raised to respect and obey their parents. The fact that Romeo and Juliet were unable to inform their parents of their love illustrates the huge gap between them and their families. This in fact gives the Friar an extra duty of care, as he becomes solely responsible for their actions as he is there lone confident. In Juliets case the role of the mother is taken over by the wet nurse who Juliet often finds solace with, they are affectionate towards each other, and often the nurse refers to Juliet as lamb and pretty fool. Thu s he plays another important role as confident and adviser to both the young lovers. This also reflects the technique used by Shakespeare by the balancing of the characters.Friar Lawrences attributes seem to have become contaminated as we go through the play and he makes a number of fatal mistakes. Firstly he marries the two lovers without their parents consent, and on Romeos return from killing Tybalt, the Friar encourages Romeo to stand strong and to consummate the marriage Ascend her chamber, hence and comfort her, knowing full well that the differences between the two families are now irreconcilable. Many critics may have seen this event as a chance for the Friar to re-think his next steps and annul their marriage.Other flaws in the Friars character became apparent as his involvement in the schemes of Romeo and Juliet increased; and he began to warp cunning and calculating plans out of his head, such as the fanatical potion plan. Some readers may think that the Friar felt to bla me and wanted to try and rectify matters, and do the right thing since his reputation was paramount to him.His deceptiveness surfaces first surfaces of which was between Juliet and Paris, and the other was when Juliets body was discovered. Being fully aware of the truth the Friar had the impertinence to use religion she is advanced above the clouds, as high as heaven itself and laid guilt on the family you love your child so ill and the heavens do lower upon you for some ill to calm and control the situation and to continue on with his plan. The Friar also remains very composed throughout this scene which reinforces his superiority and confidence among the community.Building up the wild potion plan in his head, the Friar must have felt hesitant, apprehensive, and very worried. This is evident as he thinks the plan is as desperate an execution, as the one they were trying to prevent, and ironically Juliet would need to copst with death himself to scape from it. The Friar should have listened to his own wise words before giving the potion to Juliet. He should not have played the role of God. As a man of God should he not have subdued to the will of God and not tried to take fate into his own hands? People of God usually made logical thoroughly thought out decisions, this Friar is very distant from these expectations and many may have labelled him as being too politically ambitious and a fate meddler. The Friar himself acknowledges the power of God at the end of the play, A greater power than we can contradict hath thwarted our intents, so what possessed him to take such actions?Another deplorable aspect of the Friars behaviour is his response when he finds Juliet in the tomb, instead of remaining with her and preventing her death; he flees at the sound of people coming. This shows his fear of accepting responsibility and his selfishness. This use of nature for unnatural purposes is also ironic as he ultimately, acts distinctly human by fleeing the tomb and aban doning Juliet.In addition to this on numerous occasions the Friar seems to be aware that this marriage would only lead to chaos and catastrophe. When addressing Romeo about his previous love (Rosaline), he states that both women where not the right lovers for Romeo Not in a grave, To lay one in, another out it have, suggesting that his second choice of lover is just as bad as the first. Also when marrying Romeo and Juliet he asks smile the heavens in order that sorrow chide us not. This feeling of uneasiness is further reinforced when claiming that violent delights have violent ends using an extreme metaphor to describe Romeos passion like fire and powder hence a very explosive obsession.Many would argue that if the Friar had such a bad feeling about the whole thing, why he did he go ahead with it? Perhaps the Lawrence felt an internal conflict within him the conflict of self against self.- He knew in his mind that it was wrong to help Romeo and Juliet run away with her lover, who happened to be a murderer too. But he felt himself reach out to them, he had known them seen they were children and knew they were in a desperate situation. But the problem was that the only way to solve everything was to take a wrong path that everyone opposed to.The Friar does have some positive aspects to his personality. His initial decision to marry the lovers is well-meaning as he believes it may turn the hatred between the families to pure love he agrees to marry Romeo and Juliet in the hope that their marriage will heal the rift between the Montagues and the Capulets. However he was naive in his assessment of the feud and hadnt reflected fully on the implications of Romeo and Juliets clandestine marriage.Some might argue that the Friar married them hastily because he wanted to direct their relationship towards a positive end, and prevent them having pre-marital sex. Marriage is sacred to the church and once Romeo and Juliet were married and their marriage was consummated, it became part of the Friars duty to protect this marriage; in addition it would be sinful for Juliet to re-marry whilst still being married to Romeo. In a society filled with materialism the Friar may be seen as a humble servant to divine love. At the end of the play Friar Laurence owns up and accepts the death sentence because of his role in the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. Of course he wasnt to know that the marriage would have had such a tragic ending.However, he feels guilty and is prepared to pay for his error by being executed and says to the Prince: If aught in this miscarried by my fault, let my old life be sacrificed. Lawrence always believes that good can come out of all situations, and even after calamity has claimed two lives it had succeeded in bringing the families together. The Friar is a very important character to the play he acts as a catalyst and speeds up the events of the play in many ways. He comes in later in the play showing that in a sense Shakespeare saved th e best character till the end. The Friar is involved in most of the many events, such as the wedding and potion plan. He is obviously a crucial character in the play, and without him we dont know what steps the lovers would have taken.Shakespeare also decides to introduce the friar in the heart of the play as he is the last character being introduced to the audiences this would in a way agree to the saying that the best is saved till last Not only is he introduced last but is placed right in the core of the community where he has the trust of the families of Verona and at the same time he is supposed to fulfil help for people in need. The friar had the whole world at his finger tips he couldve done anything he wanted, and this fact leaves the reader left with a predicament in what will happen. The friar builds up and creates the dramatic irony used throughout the play to grip the readers and keep them in suspense, wandering when and if the truth will ever surface.There are plenty of examples; such as when Juliet takes the potion and everyone thinks shes dead, another is when the lovers marry in secret. This manipulation of words add to the emotions and depth of feeling in this play. The Friar is the only person who is capbale of making any decisions in the play as he is one of the few people who knows exactly whats going on. He knows Juliet isnt really dead when she takes the potion, and everyone else thinks she is, also he is the only one who knows the lovers are married. These factors all reflect his importance in the development in the play without him there would be no drama there wouldnt be the excitement and the tradagy without him the marriage couldnt of taken place, the friar being placed as the central figure in a play a couple of centurys ago may seem unusual at the time friars at that time played a spiritual role in their communities.It is very unusual for Shakespeare to have chosen the Friar to play such an essential role in a romantic play. Using a Friar to play such a damning role may have surfaced Shakespeares anti Catholic sentiments. The Friar is a sympathetic Catholic, a characterization that seemed to oppose the Latin humanists comic treatment of corrupt friars in the fifteenth century. Thus there is a gap between the Friars behaviour and the audiences expectation of his behaviour. This argument is most definitely valid because of the staunch Protestantism enforced during Elizabeths reign. So the audiences would be able to conceive the stereotyped friar and say that it was typical of Catholics at the time.The whole play is concentrated into only a few days which make it more dramatic and influential. There is a sense of inevitability -we sense that there will be no way out for Romeo and Juliet.- You have characers such as the nurse who provide considarable amusement she is talketive, scatterbrained, compassionate and funloving, this character along with a few of Romeos friends is added to give the play a touch of comed y and a glimmer of hope.Time is of essence in this play as Romeo is turned down by Rosaline, and at the same time Paris asks for Juliets hand; both of which occur in the morning. Romeo and Juliet die by night fall suggesting that their short life was complete, as the sun goes down.It was very common in the Elizabethan era to write plays in poetry form. Shakespeare is not tied down by one form of poetry, and throughout the play he employs a variety of linguistic geniuses which make his work stand out against the norm. Some of his poetry does rhyme, and this is done to make things sound more important and formal, For never was a story of more woe, Than this of Juliet and her Romeo. Shakespeare plays around with the words to change the pace; by using longer or shorter words depending on how quickly events are moving. Shakespeare uses prose when common characters such as the nurse are talking and also in some comedy parts. The language seems to be overloaded with linguistic tricks; incl uding puns antithesis, pardoxes and oxymorons. This may have been done to express the eternal love that Romeo and Juliet held for one another.Shakespeare prepares the reader for the inevitable death of Romeo and Juliet, as their deaths always feel very close. Juliet is linked to death many times throughout the play grave is like to be my wedding bed, there are also the same hints that Romeo is also going to die as Juliet sees him so low, as one dead in the bottom of a tomb. Romeo and Juliet are troubled throughout with thoughts of suicide, and a readiness to experience it, a lot of these thoughts are expressed in front of Friar Lawrence where Romeo asks for a poison or sharp-ground knife and threatens to kill himself after hearing he had been banished from Verona.The Friar calms him down and suggests an alternative solution to Romeo who was on the brink of suicide. Juliet also threatens to commit suicide if the Friars wisdom doesnt help and no resolution wise is found, all these pre ssures may have lead the Friar to make hasty decisions. Finally, each imagines that the other looks dead Methinks I see thee . . . as one dead in the bottom of a tomb, this theme continues until its predestined conclusion: the double suicide. Some may think that without the Friars quick responses both lovers would have committed suicide a lot earlier on.Impulsiveness is another key flaw that contributed to the early death of Romeo and Juliet. Impulsiveness in their sense of honour, impulsiveness in their sense of love, and in their sense of romanticism led Romeo and Juliet to their premature death. These virtues, that seek to safeguard life in the highest form, devastate the lovers because they take them to excessive levels. The Friar views this impulsiveness as dangerous and advised them to love moderately saying that even honey is loathsome in his own deliciousness. The Friar is conscious of Romeos hastiness when he questions him on how quickly he had abandoned Rosaline and fallen in love with Juliet, so he reminds Romeo of the suddenness of his decisions Hath washed thy sallow cheeks for Rosaline!In the introduction the chorus states to the audience that Romeo and Juliet were star-crossed, that is to say that fate controls them, it was said if two peoples stars were crossed they would never be together which is ironically what happened. Right from the start the audience know however hard they struggle these lovers will never achieve contentment. The characters too are aware of this predicament, as Romeo and Juliet constantly feel bad omens. At the start of the play when Romeo is making his way to the ball he has a bad feeling, he fears that Some consequence, yet hanging in the stars may lead to his death. When Romeo believes that Juliet is dead, he cries out, Then I defy you, stars, completing the idea that the love between Romeo and Juliet is in opposition to the decrees of destiny. The advice of the Friar when he hears of their love is very cynical These violent delights have violent ends. Subsequently many critics think that the Friar merely acted as a catalyst to speed up this separation and was not the direct cause. He was merely an instrument instructed by the stars to carry out this role and he did this to perfection. Had it not been for the Friar the instruments of fate would have chosen another means to keep them apart.Religion similarly demanded priorities that Romeo and Juliet could not abide by because of the intensity of their love. Though in most situations the lovers uphold the traditions of Christianity (they wait to marry before consummating their love), their love is so potent that they begin to think of each other in blasphemous terms. For example, Juliet calls Romeo The God of my idolatry, elevating Romeo to level of God .The Friar starts to sense their uncontrolled passion for each other when he says that he will not leave them alone Till holy church incorporate two in one, this could be another trigger that cause d the Friar to hasten and agree to the marriage. Juliet should have obeyed her father unquestioningly when informed about her wedding to Paris, but she does not because she is already married. These were big sins especially in a catholic country, so the reader is left in a dilemma.Romeo and Juliet were hopeful that their families would be united by their love. They thought that their love was so incredible it would overcome all boundaries, which is what makes this play such a memorable one. This play is out of the ordinary because many themes are incorporated into it, love, comedy, society at war and tragedy. If they hadnt treated love as the be-all and end-all they wouldnt have died. However other people believe that Romeo and Juliet were so in love they had to die, it was written in the stars and it was fate that bought them together but also kept them apart.Their tragic ending is a direct consequence of the other main theme in the play: a society at war with itself that makes the ir love at once so tragic and so beautiful. It is love against the odds. Love is used as a central theme in all four of Shakespeares tradgies Romeo and Juliet ,Troilus and Cressida Othello and Anthony and Cleopatra in a way these plays describe love in four different phases from the strong passion of the youngest lovers to the final search for love by Anthony and Cleopatra lovers who are again torn between two different worlds.