THE END

Finally, a reading worth reading! This text was by far the best text this semester; it was interesting, reader-friendly, and entertaining. Terry Eagleton's sarcasm and frankness made the content that much more enjoyable to read; finally! This book does a really nice job of tying everything we read in class together. I understand that there is method to the madness, and believe me it was madness; but if it were not for all of the other 'stuff' we read, Eagleton wouldn't make much sense to me. Or better yet, he would only be offering his biased interpretation and I probably would really like it because I had nothing to compare it to. I really feel a sense of accomplishment. But, I digress...

I think I like cultural theory. Chapters five and six were by far the most interesting in the book. These two chapters go back to the ancients and what is 'good' and 'bad' and who determines each. The way Eagleton explains the human animal and why or how we are the way we are I find fascinating. He is like Derrida (stupid Derrida) in the sense that he talks in circles throughout chapter five, but I found his circles to be easier to understand than Derrida's; maybe that is because I have been exposed to Derrida and can never forget. However, language is the key component that defines our humanity. Because we can use logic, define words, determine actions, we are separated from the stouts and giraffes. The logic, words and actions we use are based on and influenced by our culture, and of course it would be. Eagleton argues that if it weren't for our cultures, our world might not be in the condition it is today. I also really like how Eagleton looks at capitalism, naturalism, and socialism. We, as humans, are creatures that thrive on the sociality of our lives; we need culture in order to survive. Therefore, Eagleton says that our -isms "exploit" us causing the conflict in our sociality.

I also found what he said about equality very correct. In chapter six, page 147, Eagleton states, "Treating people in an equal manner does not mean treating them as if they were all the same; it means attending even-handedly to each individual's unique situation. Equality means giving as much weight to one individual's particularity as to anothers." In order to understand what equality really is, you need to know yourself first and then you can understand your neighbor. This also applies to happiness and friendship. Reaching your full potential can possibly give you happiness, then you are at peace with yourself and your friendships will flourish. Don't we all want that?

This book tied a lot of the information from this class together for me. I think I have some understanding of the theory, rhetoric, and discourse involved in literature. Power gives control, control can cause change, change creates a new theory - and the cycle continues. Our words have a lot to say about us, our beliefs, lifestyle and ultimately our culture. We can define ourselves and influence our audience through our words, written or spoken. If we know our audience we can then become a part of the culture to create the change we want to see eventually becoming a part of history. I feel like I am now talking in circles (stupid Derrida). Thank heaven for Eagleton and his helpful last reading!