The United States And The Civil War - 910 Words

Throughout lectures this semester we have encountered numerous ‘characters’ so to speak who have helped to shape the United States of America through either their unified visions of the country or through their differing opinions and compromises. From the Colonists and English government all the way to the end of our textbook and the Civil War each character has had a clear cut vision of what the nation could do to improve itself because they each knew that without change there could be no progress because if you are not evolving, that meant things would stay the same. There is something to be said about this nation never being satisfied with its current state some may call it insanity, but these characters believed in their visions and called it progress. In this paper, we will explore the visions of each major player from this past semester and look at what each person wanted for the United States and the ultimate outcome and how things might have been if that trajecto ry had been changed. Let’s begin with the Colonists and the English Government/King James things between these two groups started out very peaceful and the Colonists were in the New World to claim things for England and make England grow and prosper, this goes well for a short while and then the Colonists realized that they wanted more. King James wanted the Colonies to be like a little miniature England and function just the same this is all fine, but there was a certain line of how much control he had onShow MoreRelatedThe Civil War : The United States1622 Words   |  7 PagesThe Civil War divided the United States with its’ origin in the struggle to preserve the Union from the Confederacy’s succession. A war to maintain the United States quickly progressed to battles fought because of the controversial beliefs on slavery in the North and South. In the coming of the Civil War there were questions and confusion that many Americans were faced with in the words of the South’s succession. During the war, families were torn due to the men lost to the Union or Confederate causesRead MoreThe United States Civil War918 Words   |  4 PagesThe United States civil war is thought of as what determined what kind of country we would be today. The U.S. civil war, otherwise known as the war of the states, began on April 12, 1861, and lasted until 1865. It consisted of the North (the Union) or the â€Å"free states†, against the South (the confederates) the slave states. When Abraham Lincoln became president in 1860 he made promises of free territories, which caused a division between men who owned slaves and men who agreed with Lincoln. SlavesRead MoreUnited States And The Civil War1668 Words   |  7 PagesUS Civil War United States of America was formed as a result of the revolution that continued from 1776 to 1783. After that, United States was divided into two wings/ parts that are the southern and the northern parts. Then conflict between the two aroused because the northern and the southern societies were totally different of each other in terms of economic structure, social class, politics and other social matters especially slavery. The civil war, that started in 1861 and ended in 1865, wasRead MoreThe Civil War : The United States909 Words   |  4 PagesThe Civil War was one of the most pivotal and significant moments in the history of the United States of America. Therefore, its impact of the Civil War was tremendous, and in many ways has shaped the way the United States has evolved into the present. The Civil War brought lots of beneficial changes to America including economic, agriculture, military, and people’s lives. During the Civil War, women stepped out of their domestic do mains to help or support their husbands in the field, or other soldiersRead MoreThe Civil War Of The United States1605 Words   |  7 PagesThe Civil War of the United States was a major and influential event in the history of our country. The Civil War shaped our nation and how we think of liberty in general. Such a big event in our antiquity must have been caused by a series of dominant events. However, a War of this size has many effects to go along with it. The most common effect thought of is the freedom of slaves, however, the Civil War was not just a war fought for freedom. One major cause of the Civil War was the issue of slaveryRead MoreThe Civil War Of The United States1561 Words   |  7 PagesCivil War Slaves Freedom can be defined as, â€Å"the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint†. (Definition) Everyone in the United States of America is entitled to this basic human right, presented to us by our founding fathers, though it was not always that simple. Even though it was in the Constitution, many people living before the mid 18th century in the United States were not extended this right, due to their nationality or lack of fortune. Someone lackingRead MoreThe United States And The Civil War920 Words   |  4 Pagesknown in the United States as simply the Civil War as well as other sectional names, was a civil war fought from 1861 to 1865 to determine the survival of the Union or independence for the Confederacy. Among the 34 states in January 1861, seven Southern slave states individually declared their secession from the United States and formed the Confederate States of America. The Confederacy, often simply called the South, grew t o include eleven states, and although they claimed thirteen states and additionalRead MoreThe Civil War Of The United States1233 Words   |  5 Pages â€Å"Blundering Generation† Division among a population for opposing goals wasn t a new concept brought to light by the Civil War. Almost one hundred years prior to the Civil War, inhabitants of the thirteen colonies fought against each other towards their differing support for their wages of unity. Patriots fought Loyalists for coalition of the colonies, and likewise Northerners now fought Southerners for the preservation of the Union. The imminent breakup of the Union, likewise to the dissolutionRead MoreThe Civil War Of The United States1440 Words   |  6 Pages The Civil War was one of the most deadly wars the United States ever fought it was fought between the North and South and to this day still leaves a big mark on the history of the United States. Though the Civil War seemed to be clear cut on what happened during the conflict its cause is to this day seemingly undecided. Was it the simple piece of legislature called the Kansas-Nebraska act that started it or the election of the United States president Abraham Lincoln that caused the turmoil? EitherRead MoreThe Civil War Of The United States1082 Words   |  5 Pagesof the United States was the Civil War. The Civil War is often remembered as the war to end slavery. While that did play a part of the Civil War the larger issue at hand was the annihilation of the United States of America. The Confederate States of America wanted to break away from the United States and form their own country. The Confederate States of America, or more commonly known as the Confederacy, was formed by seven slave states located in the southern region of the United States. The economy

Poe versus Hawthorne, Comparing Writers Essays - 1813 Words

There have always been comparisons ranging from players, books, and etc... One comparison spoken about by sports reporters is between Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant and who was the best in their prime. Many reporters say Jordan because he was clutch and was the most competitive athlete they have ever seen. Other reporters say Kobe because he has a better jump shot than Jordan at his age and has to play along another superstar. Jordan never had to go through what Kobe is going through right now. Another comparison talked about is Capitalism and Communism and which political institution is the better one. Many people say communism is the way to go because everyone is equal and no rich person has an advantage in this system in†¦show more content†¦They appeared to me white-whiter than the sheet upon which I trace these words-and thin even to grotesqueness; (161 Poe). The suspense was so good even when they fed the prisoner food because he did not know the apparent reason they did this, was it because it was going to be his last meal soon or was it they were going to feed him to the rats after he was executed. Soon after the captors took away his food and the suspense started to increase when they released the pendulum and the sweep of it had increased in extent by nearly a yard. As a natural consequence, its velocity was also much greater. But what mainly disturbed me, was the idea that it had perceptibly descended (170 Poe). The rats also were a major part in the scaring the prisoner and the reader because they are known to be filthy and vile scavengers who will eat anything to appeal their hunger. While I gazed, they came up in troops, hurriedly with ravenous eyes, allured by the scent of the meat (170 Poe). The downward swing motion of the pendulum really left the reader in suspense while leaving the prisoner mad because he was feeling the dread of death lingering and grew frantically mad, and struggled to force myself upward against the sweep of the fearful scimitar (171 Poe). In the end when the prisoner was abo ut to die and all of a sudden a hand came out of now where and grabbed him. The French army hadShow MoreRelatedFundamentals of Hrm263904 Words   |  1056 PagesTraining 189 DIVERSITY ISSUES IN HRM: Training and EEO 190 Determining Training Needs 190 Training Methods 191 Chapter 9 Managing Careers Learning Outcomes 208 Introduction 210 210 What Is a Career? 208 Individual versus Organizational Perspective 211 Career Development versus Employee Development 211 Contents Career Development: Value for the Organization 211 Needed Talent Will Be Available 211 The Organization’s Ability to Attract and Retain Talented Employees Improves 212 Minorities and

Secret Life of Bees Research Paper Free Essays

Jackie Yets 3/21/11 Per. 6, English H2/SP Secret Life of Bees Research Paper While one reads the Sue Monk Kidd novel, The Secret Life of Bees, an enigma acquainted with the book is why the Black Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia is used as opposed to a white Virgin Mary. With the story taking place in the racist south of 1964 it would be reasonable to assume that a black Mary wouldn’t be common, or readily accepted; however she still occupies a large area of the women’s lives. We will write a custom essay sample on Secret Life of Bees Research Paper or any similar topic only for you Order Now For the Boatwright’s, the Daughters of Mary, and quickly for Lily and Rosaleen, the black Virgin Mary is placed in the book as a source of strength, and maternal comfort. The most obvious symbolism of the Black Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia is that it is featured in the novel to give the characters a religious strength. In the story of ‘Our Lady of Chains’ August tells how the statue was such an inspiration to the slaves, and how â€Å"Our Lady filled their hearts with fearlessness†¦ And if it ever grew weak, they would only have to touch her heart again,† (109-110). ‘Our Lady of Chains’, another Divine black figure in the book besides the Madonna of Breznichar, does that same thing for all of the women. Along with ‘Our Lady’ the Bohemian Black Madonna has the same effect on the Daughters of Mary, because it showed them that â€Å"what’s divine can come in dark skin. You see, everybody needs a God who looks like them,† (141). In the real world however, there is no such thing as the Black Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia. The historical region of Bohemia was located in the same area as modern Poland, and Poland is home to a well known Black Madonna, Our Lady of Czestochowa, who shares many similarities with the Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia. These similarities, including features and elements of the pictures, strongly suggest that the Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia is based on Our Lady of Czestochowa. Our Lady of Czestochowa is well known for her ‘miracle working’, mostly involving scaring away foreign invaders and assisting small groups of defenders in defeating powerful armies (Similar to Lily, Rosaleen, the Boatwrights, and the Daughters of Mary gaining the strength to convince an angry T-Ray to leave Lily with them? ). The Black Madonna is also historically known to have been at the foundation of rebellions and revolutions, and leading to freedom; which can again be connected to Lily leaving and becoming free of her father. However the Black Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia also has another role. Another component of the Bohemian Madonna’s role is her place as a ‘mother of thousands’. In a reflection on The Secret Life of Bees by the author, Sue Monk Kidd said that the Black Virgin Mary existed in the novel to be a symbol of comfort. She also planned for Lily to have a coming home to herself, and a discovery of a mother within to take place with the help of a divine female presence, the Black Mary. Along with the strong connections between the Mary and a mother-like role to the characters, in a religious perspective she is of course a symbol of motherhood, and giving life. In general, the Virgin Mary is known for giving birth to Christ. There is also another connection concerning the Black Mary, which is that she is the ancient earth-goddess that was altered for use in Christianity. Many other goddesses were pictured as black, most importantly Ceres the Roman goddess of agricultural fertility. Keeping in mind the theory that the Black Madonna is an ancient earth-goddess, agriculturally the best fertile soil is characterized by a black color. The blacker the soil, the more becoming it is for farming. Good farming leads to more food, which keeps humans alive. Summing it up, the black earth gives life. This is another strong connection to a life giving maternal role. There’s also another spiritual connection to the comfort brought by the presence of Our Lady of Czestochowa. This connection regards the hidden meaning of the colors present in the images of the Mother; first is the blue-green background, which symbolizes hope. Foremost, the brown skin color is more important, subtly indicating the human element as well as the long history seen by the Madonna. With all of these characteristics related to the Black Virgin Mary, it is clear why Kidd would create this divine figure to inspire her cast of characters. The insurgence nurtured in the history of Black Madonna created the perfect symbol to guide Lily in her search for a home and a connection to both her literal mother, as well as the mother within herself. Works Cited Duricy, Michael P. â€Å"Black Madonnas: Our Lady of Czestochowa. † Black Madonnas. The Marian Library/International Marian Research Institute. , 26 March 2008. Web. 13 March 2011. http://campus. udayton. edu/mary/meditations/olczest. html. Jozwik, Ziemowit. A Treasury of Europe. Europe and Me Magazine. N. p. 4 January 2010. Web. 13 March 2011. http://www. europeandme. eu/8heart/455-the-black-madonna Kidd, Sue Monk. Secret Life of Bees- The Black Madonna in the Novel. Sue Monk Kidd. LUX Interactive, LLC. , n. d. Web. 13 March 2011. http://www. suemonkkidd. com/Reflections. aspx? t=bi=34 Duricy, Michael P. Black Madonnas. The Marian Library/International Marian Research Institute, 6 October 2009. Web. 13 March 2011. http://campus. udayton. edu/mary/meditations/blackmdn. html Cahoy, Nate. Comparing Madonnas. The Black Madonnas. PB Works. n. d. Web. 13 March 2011. http://nrcslob. pbworks. com/w/page/4469613/Comparing-Madonnas Our Lady of CzestochowaBlack Madonna of Breznichar in Bohemia How to cite Secret Life of Bees Research Paper, Essays

Critical Analysis of Child Labor free essay sample

In a cramped, one-room home on the outskirts of Manila, Maryann Aroma, thirteen, and her two sisters glue the ears, earrings, and necklaces on stuffed toys made for export. Their mother has forced the girls to work since age eleven. In India, at the age of twelve, Mohammed Salahuddin works sixteen hours a day in a factory located just outside of New Delhi, embroidering elegant sequined jackets. It is a troubling image for a parent to realize the wrapped sweater or plastic toy that will excite their child’s little hands this holiday season may have another pair of little hands behind them. In China, Thailand, and other developing countries, children as young as five are working to produce toys or pack clothing that will be enjoyed by more privileged kids overseas. (Morris) In the short story entitled â€Å"Live Free and Starve† by Chitra Divakaruni, child labor is closely critiqued and examined. Divakaruni feels that labor could be a good thing because it keeps food on the table and a roof over their head. She argues that although it is true that they are only paid a small amount of money, it is just enough to get by. If these children were not working, they would be begging on the streets, hungry for food. Her conclusion on the matter is to leave the laws unchanged because she feels that the opposing life that these kids could have may be worse. Child labor in third world countries is similar to slavery. Although the course of the extent of abuse varies throughout each country, the majority of children are treated like slaves. The biggest difference between the lives of these children and slavery is the payment, which is usually around fourteen dollars a month. Abuse is common and even murder happens occasionally. It is true that the lives of these children will not change over night, but it is necessary to make laws towards improving the conditions in which these kids work so that change can eventually come. By analyzing the lives of these young foreign children, I have come to the conclusion that all governments should take steps towards banning labor. In the dictionary, child labor is defined as, â€Å"1. Work done by kids full-time under the age of fifteen. 2. Work that prevents kids from attending school, such as unlimited or unrestricted domestic work. . Work that is dangerous for kids and that is hazardous to their physical, mental, or emotional health. † (Child Labor Definition) There are many reasons why child labor should be stopped, but the most significant reason is to stop or slow the pain and suffering of these young and innocent children. This form of labor is not work, but abuse. â€Å"Overall, the government estimat es that 800,000 of Bolivia’s children work as laborers. Many work in hazardous conditions as prostitutes, drug-traffickers, in quarries and mines, or on farms and in factories† (Henne). As they strive for perfection, worried about getting fired, many injuries take place, but yet they must keep working. Ministers, attending a conference in the state-owned arts and crafts center in the medieval city of Fez, Morocco, drink coffee and sip tea. As they are relaxing, five-year-old girls and boys are working their fingers to the bone in the back room, weaving carpets for tourists. Because some are not tall enough to reach the tables, they must stand on wooden boxes. Their arms have cuts and scrapes where their scissors have missed the wool. They are timed, being continually reminded that they must keep weaving at a fast pace in order to get paid. For all of their hard work, their parents only receive the U. S. equivalent to ten dollars a month for working ten hour days. While the children are still working, the rich ministers pull away in their limos, thinking nothing about the life that these young people live. (Economist) By hearing this story, many people may have feelings of sympathy and heartache for the kids living this nightmare, but will never be able to comprehend the pain and suffering these children face every day. Two-hundred and fifty million children, aged five to fourteen are working, half of them full-time† (Harrison). These children work long hours in unhealthy conditions, but it is the only way for their families to survive. Many use hazardous pesticides, chemicals, or dangerous tools and machines. The children are beaten and left without a normal childhood or education, causing physical and psyc hological wounds. Attempts of banning child labor have been unsuccessful. Another reason child labor should be stopped is for the sake of education. Child laborers are at a disadvantage. The drop-out rate is four times higher in poor families compared to relatively better-off families (Access to an Education). The simple achievement of graduating is low, and extremely low in underdeveloped countries. â€Å"As compared to China, the coefficient of efficiency in school is ninety-four percent in the case of China, as compared to only sixty-six percent in the case of India† (Access to Education). Why are poor families or child laborers at a disadvantage? For starters, these kids are working long hours and it is hard to find the time to get an education. If they do find the time, many of the kids are too tired to attend school or to concentrate for long periods of time. It is true that the parents could force their children to attend school, and could improve their children’s marketable labor skills later in life, but their income can not afford this luxury. Although I feel education is important, some people feel differently. A frequently asked question is, â€Å"What is the point of an education when the current system produces 100,000 jobless graduates per year? † (International). They believe that if a child is just going to work in a factory the rest of his life, what is the point of wasting money on an education? This is a very reasonable argument, but education is the best investment a country can make. â€Å"It is not higher education alone that is important, but raising literacy levels among the population that makes for improvement† (Access to Education). Not only is the schooling important, but the atmosphere in which kids learn is also very important. It is essential for the normal development of the child. Spending all day working in these harsh conditions, social development will be lacking. â€Å"In the State of the World’s Children Report 1997, it reported that an estimated six billion dollars is needed annually to put every child in school by the year 2000. That may seem like an enormous sum, yet it is less than one percent of what the world spends every year on weapons. They recommend that donor governments set aside part of their official development assistance to other countries for children’s basic social needs† (Exploitative Child Labor). The final reason I believe child labor should be banned is because of the psychological effect it has on these young children. Child labor is not only physically abusive, but also very mentally abusive. Mental abuse is extremely hard to recover from, and affects many children for the rest of their lives. The intense working conditions, working without breaks, and the physical injuries, may cause intense stress and psychological wounds. A young mother who had children who worked as military laborers recalls, â€Å"My children couldn’t eat. They were always shaking and crying out in their sleep, thinking the house was on fire. They wouldn’t let us put the lights on in the evening because they were so afraid† (Gorvett). Following a traumatic event such as war or child labor, treatment is very necessary. The number of children seeking treatment is not enough. It is true that treatment is difficult, but it can be very successful. â€Å"One child in five shows deep disturbing symptoms such as insomnia, incontinence, and rejection of learning. That suggests need for deep psychiatric treatment† (Godoy). Of course the best solution would be to stop child labor all together; to stop the pain and suffering of these young and innocent children, but until something is done, we must try to keep the children in the best psychological health possible. Child labor causes much controversy around the world, and these three examples play a major role. It is important to protect children from physical damage, to provide an education, and to keep them in good mental health. With child labor existing, all three of these goals remain extremely hard to accomplish. These children are not slaves, but yet they are being treated as slaves. They have no opportunity to live a normal life. While American children are going to school and playing outside, less fortunate kids in other countries are working upwards of ten hours a day, being constantly reminded that they must work efficiently in order to receive their pay. While these children are working their fingers to the bone, we Americans are playing with the toys that other kids have spent hours making. Yet, we tend to think nothing about it.

Jurassic Park #2 Essay Example For Students

Jurassic Park #2 Essay Jurrasic Park Richard GraczykJURASSIC PARK Crichton, Michael Publisher: Ballantine Books CityWhere Published: New York Date of latest copy: 1990 Edition: FirstBallantine Books Edition: December 1991. 399 Pages, Hardcover I. A BriefSummary of the Plot. A billionaire has created a technique to clone dinosaurs. From the left behind DNA that his crack team of scientists and experts extracthe is able to grow the dinosaurs in labs and lock them up on an island behindelectrified fences. He has created a sort of theme park on the island which islocated off the west coast of Costa Rica. The island is called Isla Nublar. Heplans to have the entire planet come and visit his wondrous marvels. He asksa group of scientists from several different fields to come and view the park,but something terribly goes wrong when a worker on the island turns traitorand shuts down the power. II. A Description of the Most Important Aspectsof the Contents. The main characters in the book are: John Hammond who isa billionaire developer who has used his

The great mosque of Cordoba or Mezquita

Introduction As mentioned earlier, the Cordoba mosque, also known as Mezquita, stands tall as a representative of the medieval Islamic civilization located in Spain. It is believed that the ground breaking of the mosque began in the Sixth Century AD as a Christian Visigothic church. The Mosque was, however, completed much later, in the year 987 AD, and shared for use between the Muslims and the Christians.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The great mosque of Cordoba or Mezquita specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Beginning 784 AD, an Islamist prince called Abd ar-Rahman, acquired the structure from the Christian fraternity and began refurbishing it as a Muslim worship centre. The mosque underwent a lot of †structural changes and interior design repair† (Savory 1976). This was meant to fit the mosque into the â€Å"Islamic design†. The purchase of the cathedral by the Muslims also meant tha t it would be refurbished to â€Å"rid it of the â€Å"Christian characteristics†(Ching and Prakash 2011). The magnificent building is outstanding with the huge arches and numerous columns that exceed 1,000 in number (Savory 1976). The columns consist of various valuable stones such as Jasper, Onyx and marble that have been artistically modelled to provide the artistic countenance that the mosque has. The mosque had a turbulent moment in the year 1236 when it was captured from the moors and used again by the Christian fraternity by King Ferdinand three. The proceeding kings that followed later redesigned the mosque according to the Christian beliefs and design (Ching and Prakash). Initial design During the re-designation period of the mosque, the most outstanding and notable reconstruction activity involved the construction of the Reconnaissance cathedral in the middle of the structure, courtesy of a Spanish king Carlos who was a Christian by then (Savory 1976). The Mezquit a, or the Cordoba, mosque had different measurement during the initial construction. In terms of the area, it measured a total of 73m square. Out of this area, half was a forecourt (Trachterberg 2002). Later, during the reconstruction periods, there was a need to enlarge the total area and this led to the addition of an extra 65 square miles making the total area to stand at 138 square miles. During the first construction, the worshipping hall increased two folds at the end of the 9th century and the length widened to a total length of approximately 138m. Proceeding kings that followed later redesigned the mosque according to the Christian beliefs and design (Trachterberg 2002).Advertising Looking for research paper on architecture? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Design Structure of the Mosque Arches The arches, throughout the structure, have a common shape that is referred to as â€Å"the horse shoe form† (Savory 197 6). This style is described as being very predominant with the architectural design of the Visigoths, i.e. the inhabitants of the area where the mosque is situated before the arrival of the Islamic population called the Umyyads from North Africa (Ching and Prakash). The horse shoe form was assumed to be very strong and durable by the medieval architectures other than the fact that they offered very flowery aesthetic finishing, when used in various structures and buildings, all the arches within the cathedral are oriented towards the horse shoe design template borrowed from the Visigoths. The dome The dome is located right above the mihrab or the maqrub. It depicts a large structure, of course dome shaped as the name suggests, but carries with itself numerous artistic drawings and calligraphy on the inside. The dome was constructed through an act of crisscrossing those components that form the pointed arches in the building. In the mosque, they are largely decorated in pure gold in a more or less radial and regular pattern (Ching and Prakash). The dome was constructed during the construction of the cathedral and historians argue that during the construction of this dome, a total number of sixteen columns were demolished and ejected from the main prayer hall to allow a space for the erection of both the cathedral and the dome. Simultaneously, the cathedral construction was purely based on the early Christian architectural designs. One can easily feel and see the outstanding cocktail of both Christian and Islamic designs standing side by side to depict the history of civilisation of these two contrasting yet marvellous designs. It is important to note the structure of the double arches that have been used in the building. These greatly assist in the support of the immense weight that the ceilings high above insert on the columns and further prevents the roof from falling off. These arches were conveniently designed with a lower horse shoe arch and an upper semi -circular arch whose role is to offer adequate base for the support of these arches (Ching and Prakash 2011). The arches along the passages of the mosque consist of several layered segments that run in lines which consist of red bricks and white stones piled in an alternating manner, thus, creating a spectacular pattern of stripes along the arcade, the space is large enough to permit visibility across the arcade (Ching and Prakash 2011).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on The great mosque of Cordoba or Mezquita specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More General Dimension The Mosque is approximated to measure a total of six hundred and twenty feet ft in length across the North-South orientation (Trachterberg 2002). In terms of the breadth, from the West to the East cardinal points, the mosque measures a total length of four hundred and forty feet. The shape of the mosque is considered to be rectangular inferring that it has four sides and four angles in general. Historians have always argued that the mosque initially had a total of twenty one doors when it was originally constructed. However, the number has so far reduced to only five following various reconstruction procedures by the Christians when they took it over from the Muslims. External dimension Two hundred and ten feet out of the total length from South to North, a court was effectively erected and a modern gate installed for accessory purpose. Nineteen aisles that measure three hundred and fifty feet in length by fourteen in breadth ran parallel from the Northern portion to the Southern end through the interior building that forms the central structure (Ching and Prakash 2011). The aisles have a large number of columns with a spectacular arrangement Elevation of the Mosque Each of the four fronts of the structure presents a perfectly designed wall that is crowned with crenulations all through. There is a varying difference between ea ch of these fronts in terms of their heights and decorations. Each arch presents a beautiful and well curve horse shoe form that effectively makes a reference of the widely used Moorish architecture through which the whole building is set upon Interior Design Columns The columns in the mosque presently stand at a total of eight hundred and fifty and are made out of granite and jasper together with other precious rocks. Columns display myriad splendid colours. The unique scenery formed by this creativity has been described as â€Å"majestic† by some historians (Ching and Prakash 2011). These columns have an equivalent length which stands at nine feet from the base. The shaft too, of the existing columns, reflects equivalency in terms of the size and measures approximately seventeen inches in terms of the diameter. The Chapiters on the other hand, support the arches that emanate from one column to the other where they perfectly form a horse shoe form (Ching and Prakash 2011). The beams of the mosque are extremely huge in diameter for the sole reason of offering support to the structure. The beams are numerous in number and the cross beams have been well decorated with paint to provide the aesthetic magnificent sight they possess (Ching and Prakash 2011). One of the most stunning features of the mosque is the maqsura or rather the prayer space for the ruler (Trachterberg 2002). This space was specifically preserved for the King. It was personally commissioned by the caliph himself in the 12th century. Advertising Looking for research paper on architecture? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The space is separated from the rest of the prayer section by alternating arcades that possess several lobes that offer a distinctive horse shoe form. It was then decorated using marble that were well curved together with various other precious stones like the stucco and the mosaics too (Ching and Prakash 2011) The Mihrab The interior portion of the mosque is the house of the Maqsura which is, perhaps, one of the landmark features in any Islamic worshiping centre. The Mihrab refers to a designated area on the wall of a mosque that is used to depict the direction Makka, the holy city of Islam (Trachterberg 2002). By the use of a horse shoe form arch, the architecture adorned the Mihrab in the mosque using some of the most precious gems and metals. The mihrabb is encapsulated it in a more or less rectangular frame that house numerous verses that have been keenly selected from the Muslim holy book of Koran. The writings used are indeed very artistic and clearly pointing out to the ori gin and development of the Islamic calligraphy. One can never miss the great manifest of the Islamic art at every point of the building either within the structure, or outside the structure (Trachterberg 2002). The choir loft in the cathedral is coated with wood carvings that offer it a magnificent finish. The space around the loft has overleaped ceilings together with large domes that rise above the main altar. There exists an open and easy to see difference between the chapels of the cathedral and the normal conventional chapels. The cathedral chapels are not situated around the major cathedral area but rather, the chapels occupy the area around the primary cathedral area (Trachterberg 2002). There has been a raging debate though on the reason as to why the mihrab is not facing Makka, the Islamic holy city,yet, conventionally, all the mosques belonging to the Muslim worshippers have erected the mihrab facing Makka. Now, various historians have put forth their arguments on the same but the most agreeable version is that the initial inhabitants of the structure were not Muslims and during the construction of the structure, there were no intentions of using it as a mosque in the future. This argument is very valid and easily accepted since the presence of any Muslim during the construction would have led to the proper orientation of the Mihrab towards their holy city, Mekka. All in all, it is a popular version of the story that the Muslims acquired the structure after its full construction but yet did a few modifications to fit it into the Muslim definition of a â€Å"worship place† The hypostyle hall This is the most spacious area within the Mosque (Ching and Prakash 2011). The hall is essentially filled with numerous columns that support the huge roof above it. It is called the hypostyle hall to refer to the large number of columns that stand regularly arranged around the hall (Ching and Prakash 2011). This large and expansive prayer hall appears unu sually very wide due to the mirage formed by the presence of repeated geometry, an aspect of gothic design that was essentially meant for decorative purpose and also to instil support in different structures. The repeated geometry has been widely applied in the decoration of the prayer hall. The hall is believed to have been constructed using refurbished columns that were excavated from the Roman structures (Ching and Prakash 2011). The columns are modified into a combination of two symmetrical horse shoe form arches that are formed from red brick and the stones. This distinct the arches out as well decorated and adorned to radiate immense beauty and magnificence. The Roofing The roofing of the structure was skilfully done to accommodate the large columns of the structure (Trachterberg 2002). The roof is artistically done using selected species of cedar together with pine wood. These are some of the strongest species of timber known and are conceived to remain unaffected by seasons or insects for the longest time possible. The timber is â€Å"sandwiched† with lead in a fine precision that brings out the artistry applied. Exterior view The external walls are fortified with utmost ingenuity depicting the strength of the structure. The walls are intermittently supported by buttresses which make it appear like a legion of towers (Trachterberg 2002). Below the bell tower, lies a courtyard with orange trees together with a fountain that is specifically used for lavation purposes. Cathedral The cathedral is located right in the middle of the mosque. This cathedral was constructed after the Christians acquired the structure from the Muslim believers during the reign of king Carlos of Spain. It is postulated that the cathedral must have been constructed in the sixteenth century. To the left hand side of this cathedral lies the Capilla de Villacios building that was constructed by the Moorish craftsmen earlier by King Alfonso. The Cathedral boasts of a gothic ar chitectural style that was introduced by an archictect Hernan Ruiz who worked on the structure transforming it into a gothic design which essentially refers to an architectural design of the medieval era. The bell tower The bell tower is perhaps the longest structure in the whole building. It was never part of the original building when it was still inhabited by the Muslims. However, during the reign of King Carlos and the restructuring period, the Architects designed a long tower for the purpose of erecting the bell. The tower is approximated to be ninety three metres in height and is constructed together with winding stairs that leads up to the top. The bell tower is referred to as the Torre de Alminar. From the bell tower, it is possible to have a view of the whole mosque aerially. The mosque has a total tally of three gates that are all designed using different architectural designs for accessory purposes. Conclusion The mosque describes the artistry and displays some of the ch aracteristics of Islamic civilisation. The design represents one of the last remaining representatives of the Moorish architecture. The paper has sought to highlight the outstanding features of this design and relate it to Islamic civilisation (Trachterberg 2002). The antique appearance of the structure has helped to unfold various historical issues in as far as the ancient civilisation is concerned. The structure has, in itself, revealed numerous historical facts and phenomenon that has opened up debate for critical study of the architecture of the prehistoric era, it is my submission therefore that this paper has adequately helped tie the ends by exploring these historical phenomena The mosque has had a fair share of its challenges since the Christians took over from the Muslim users. A number of violent episodes have been witnessed where some radical Islamic groups has invariantly attacked and injured several other Christian worshippers in their demand to repossess the mosque, or worship in turns with the Christians. The Spanish Muslims have been lobbying the Spanish Catholics to allow them use the cathedral, however, this has been severally rejected by the Vatican city and the Spanish Catholic administrators. This was followed by violence by a few Muslim tourists who assaulted the guards at the cathedral. References Ching, Frank, Mark Jarzombek, and Prakash Vikramaditya. A global history of architecture. 2nd ed. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley, 2011. Print. Savory, Roger. Introduction to Islamic civilisation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976. Print. Trachtenberg, Arvin, Hyman. Architecture: From Prehistory to Post modernity, 2nd edition, Pearson; 2002. Print. This research paper on The great mosque of Cordoba or Mezquita was written and submitted by user Joaquin Leon to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Women In the Middle East essays

Women In the Middle East essays Even with the evolutionary changes within our society, women in the Middle East are still being discriminated against. Islamic views in the Middle East are the fundamental cause of the repression of women there, and remain the major obstacle to the evolution of their position. Women in this region of the world have no marital rights, are unjustly punished in comparison to men, and have a very strict dress code. In the Middle East women are denied the same martial rights as men. They are prohibited from getting a divorce, while men are free to divorce and remarry as they wish. Also women must be submissive to their husbands, because their husbands have total legal control over them. Men have control and ownership over all possessions, while women do not have any of these rights within a marriage. As well, women must seek permission from their husbands to see their parents, yet men are free to see their parents as they wish. In this region of the world women are unjustly punished in comparison to men. If a woman becomes pregnant after being raped, she could be stoned or caned to death. All that is needed for this stoning or caning to happen is a testimony of one male witness. While if a man commits adultery, there needs to be four male witnesses to the incident before the man can be punished. Also if a woman is considered to dishonor her family, they may beat or even kill her, and not be in any fear of being punished. Women in the Middle East are shackled by a very severe dress code. They must be covered head to toe in a garment called a burqu. This is a dark colored garment covering the whole body with just a hole for the eyes. This lack of choice in clothing diminishes any thought of individuality. Without individuality there will come no change, because there will be a fear of stepping out of the comfort of blending in with the rest. The burqu attacks these womens strive for self-confidence. Being caged under such a ...