The Dred Scott Decision Essay Example for Free

The Dred Scott Decision Essay The Dred Scott decision of 1865 had many implications on the status of free blacks in the United States, along with the concept of popular sovereignty, and the future of slavery in America. Dred Scott was a slave who moved in with his master to the free state of Illinois. He claimed that residence in a free state made him a free man, and he fought for his freedom all the way to the Supreme Court (1865). Chief Justice Taney ruled that since blacks could not be citizens, they had no right to sue in a federal court. The court also went further and said the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional. This decision greatly affected the status of free blacks in the United States. They were not allowed any additional rights due to the fact that they were not citizens. Therefore, they could not advance in society socially, and otherwise. Because of this, they could not vote and freely voice their opinions as the Constitution did not apply to them. The Dred Scott decision also had many implications on the concept of popular sovereignty. It was questioned that if Congress could not exclude slaves from a territory, how could a mere territorial legislature do so? Until statehood was granted, slavery seemed as unprofaned as freedom of religion or speech or any other civil liberty guaranteed by the Constitution. Where formerly freedmen (as guaranteed in the Bill of Rights) was a national institution and slavery a local one, now according to the Court, slavery was nationwide, as was excluded only where states specifically abolished it. This meant that popular sovereignty had virtually no jurisdiction in the aspect of slavery in a territory, because slavery was only abolished if a state specifically said so. The future of slavery was also impacted upon by the Dred Scott decision. It convinced thousands that the South was engaged in an aggressive attempt to extend the peculiar institution so far that it could no longer be considered peculiar. Although slavery was eventually outlawed, at that time it seemed that there was to be no end.

Corporate Culture Case Study: BMW

Corporate Culture Case Study: BMW Introduction In the mind of every person, emotions, thoughts and possible actions form a pattern which has developed during his or her childhood. Once rooted in the mind, these patterns must be forgotten before anything new can be taught. A common name for these patterns is culture. Culture is important. It is what founds confidence. The concept of culture is broad and abstract but still a crucial part of everyones environment and something that can be found anywhere. It takes form in symbols, heroes, rituals and customs. The core, the essence of culture is values. Our basic values are founded in the beginning of our lives, while as we grow older we tend to focus on consciously learning new customs. The choices we make during this process determine our self-image how we look upon the others. There are countless definitions of the word culture, each one claiming to be unique. But in fact this only goes to show that the concept is far too abstract to be clearly defined, Bang states that it signifies what we at every specific moment want it to signify. We see this as the strength of the subject; it is what makes it so interesting to study. You can end up anywhere, and there is no right or wrong. Many connect culture with art and theater, but the concept is nowadays far more widespread and can be applied to many more areas, corporations being one of them. A popular and simple definition of the expression corporate culture is made by Deal and Kennedy: Culture is the way in which we perform something here at ours  [2]   The term culture originally comes from social anthropology. Late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century studies of primitive societies-Eskimo, South Sea, African, Native American-revealed ways of life that were not only different from the more technologically advanced parts of America and Europe but were often very different among themselves. The concept of culture was thus coined to represent, in a very broad and holistic sense, the qualities of any specific human group that are passed from one generation to the next. The American Heritage Dictionary defines culture, more formally, as the totally of socially transmitted behavior patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and all other products of human work and thought characteristics of a community or population  [3]   It is helpful to think that corporate culture has two levels, which differ in terms of their visibility and their resistance to change. At the deeper and less visible level, culture refers to values that are shared by the people in a group and that tend to persist over time even when group membership changes. Those notions about what is important in life can vary greatly in different companies; in some settings people care deeply about money, in other about technological innovation or employee well-being. At this level culture can be extremely difficult to change, in part because group members are often unaware of many of the values that bind them together. At the more visible level, culture represents the behavior patterns or style of an organization that new employees are automatically encouraged to follow by their fellow employees. We can say, for example, that people in one group have for years been hard workers, those in another are very friendly to strangers, and those in a third always wear very conservative clothes. Culture in this sense, is still tough to change, but not nearly as difficult as the level of basic values. Each level of culture has a natural tendency to influence the other. This is perhaps most obvious in terms of shared values influencing a groups behavior-a commitment to customers, for example, influencing how quickly individuals tend to respond to customers complaints. But causality can flow in the other direction too-behavior and practices can influence values. So, How Do We Define Culture? Culture is a pattern of shared tacit assumptions that was learned by a group as it solved its problems of external adaptation and internal integration, that has worked well enough to be considered valid and, therefore, to be taught to new members as the correct way to perceive, think, and feeling relation to those problems.  [4]   What really drives daily behavior is the learned, shared, tacit assumptions on which people base their view of reality as it is and as it should be. It results in what is popularly thought of as the way we do things around here, but even the employees in the organization cannot, without help, reconstruct the underlying assumptions on which their daily behavior rests. They know only that this is the way, and they count on it. Life becomes predictable and meaningful. If you understand those assumptions, it is easy to see how they lead to the kind of behavioral. Three Levels of Culture The biggest danger in trying to understand culture is to oversimplify it. It is tempting to say that culture is just the way we do things around here, the rites and rituals of our company, the company climate, the reward system, our basic values and so on. These are all manifestations of the culture, but none is the culture at the level where culture matters. A better way to think about culture is to realize that it exists at several levels and that we must understand and manage the deeper levels. The levels of culture go from the very visible to the very tacit and invisible.  [5]   Artifacts Visible organizational structures (hard to decipher) Espoused Values Strategies, goals, philosophies (espoused justifications) Underlying  Assumptions Unconscious, taken for granted  beliefs, perceptions, thoughts and feeling (ultimate source  of values and action) Classifying Corporate Culture G.Hofstede Hofstede demostrated that there are national and regional cultural groupings that affect the behaviour of organizations. Hofstede identified four characteristics of culture in his study of national influences: Power Distance The degree to which a society expects there to be differences in the levels of power. A high score suggests that there is an expectation that some individuals wield larger amounts of power than others. A low score reflects the view that all people should have equal rights. Uncertainty Avoidance reflects the extent to which a society accepts uncertainty and risk. individualism vs collectivism individualism is contrasted with collectivism, and refers to the extent to which people are expected to stand up for themselves, or alternatively act predominantly as a member of the group or organisation. masculinity vs femininity refers to the value placed on traditionally male or female values. Male values for example include competitiveness, assertiveness, ambition, and the accumulation of wealth and material possessions. Long vs short term orientation Deal and Kennedy Deal and Kennedy defined corporate culture as the way things get done around here. They measured organisations in respect of: Feedback quick feedback means an instant response. This could be in monetary terms, but could also be seen in other ways, such as the impact of a great save in a soccer match. Risk represents the degree of uncertainty in the organisations activities. Using these parameters, they were able to suggest four classifications of organisational culture: The Tough Guy Macho Culture. Feedback is quick and the rewards are high. This often applies to fast moving financial activities such as brokerage, but could also apply to policemen or women, or athletes competing in team sports. This can be a very stressful culture in which to operate. The Work Hard/Play Hard Culture is characterised by few risks being taken, all with rapid feedback. This is typical in large organisations which strive for high quality customer service. They are often characterised by team meetings, jargon and buzzwords. The Bet your Company Culture, where big stakes decisions are taken, but it may be years before the results are known. Typically, these might involve development or exploration projects, which take years to come to fruition, such as could be expected with oil exploration or aviation. The Process Culture occurs in organisations where there is little or no feedback. People become bogged down with how things are done not with what is to be achieved. This is often associated with bureaucracies. Whilst it is easy to criticise these cultures for being over cautious or bogged down in red tape, they do produce consistent results, which is ideal in, for example, public services. Charles Handy Handy (1985) popularised a method of looking at culture which some scholars have used to link organizational structure to Organizational Culture. He descibes: a Power Culture which concentrates power in a few pairs of hands. Control radiates from the centre like a web. Power Cultures have few rules and little bureaucracy; swift decisions can ensue. In a Role Culture, people have clearly delegated authorities within a highly defined structure. Typically, these organisations form hierarchical bureaucracies. Power derives from a persons position and little scope exists for expert power. By contrast, in a Task Culture, teams form to solve particular problems. Power derives from expertise so long as a team requires expertise. These cultures often feature the multiple reporting lines of a matrix structure. A Person Culture exists where all individuals believe themselves superior to the organisation. Survival can become difficult for such organisations, since the concept of an organisation suggests that a group of like-minded individuals pursue the organisational goals. Some professional partnerships can operate as person cultures, because each partner brings a peculiar expertise and clientele to the firm. Elements of the corporate culture: The Paradigm: What the organization is about; what it does; its mission; its values. Control Systems: The processes in place to monitor what is going on. Role cultures would have vast rule books. There would be more reliance on individualism in a power culture. Organizational Structures: Reporting lines, hierarchies, and the way that work flows through the business. Power Structures: Who makes the decisions, how widely spread is power, and on what is power based? Symbols: These include the logos and designs, but would extend to symbols of power, such as car parking spaces and executive washrooms! Rituals and Routines: Management meetings, board reports and so on may become more habitual than necessary. Stories and Myths: build up about people and events, and convey a message about what is valued within the organization. These elements may overlap. Power structures may depend on control systems, which may exploit the very rituals that generate stories. Selecting a Company I decided to focus my research on the BMW Group ,because it is a one of the worlds top automobile manufacturers with long history of successful technological achievements and thousands of employees and I believe ,it will be a great example for a successful corporate culture. The company produces motorcycles and engines, as well and it also own and produces the Mini brand and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. As one of the great car manufacturers with subsidiaries on each continent and since the automobile industry has been strongly influenced by the social environment, I believe that studying the BMW Group corporate culture is an effective means for understanding the corporate cultures of European companies. To present the BMW group corporate culture ,I will analyze how the BMW corporate culture works and what are its core values. BMW Group Overview BMW History BMW is an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG- or, in English, Bavarian Motor Works  [6]  . Whatever you call it, the German-based company is one of the worlds most respected automakers, renowned for crafting luxury cars and SUVs that offer superior levels of driving enjoyment. Founded in Munich, the company began in the early 1910s as an aircraft manufacturer. BMWs current logo, designed to represent white propeller blades against a blue sky, reflects these origins; its blue-and-white color scheme also references Bavarias blue-and-white checkered flag. It wasnt until 1928 that production began on the first BMW automobile, the Dixi. The car proved tremendously popular, and its success helped the manufacturer weather the Depression. BMWs best-known pre-World War II vehicle was the Type 328 roadster, a supple two-seater that racked up over 120 victories on the motorsport circuit between 1936 and 1940. Postwar BMW cars maintained this tradition, winning several racing, rallying and hill climb victories. The early 1950s saw the launch of the BMW 501, a roomy, voluptuous sedan that was resplendent with all of the hopefulness of that era. It was soon followed by the 502 which was powered by the worlds first light-alloy V8, foreshadowing BMWs ongoing commitment to developing new technology. The best-selling BMW of that decade was the Isetta, a petite two-seat microcar typically powered by a 12- or 13-horsepower engine. The mid-50s also saw the debut of the limited production and breathtakingly beautiful 507 sports car which had an alloy body and used the 502s V8 for propulsion. In the 1960s, BMW sales strengthened significantly, thanks in part to the immense popularity of the 1500, a sporty family sedan.   [7]   By the 1970s, BMW was establishing itself as a full-fledged car company. It was a pioneer for many emerging technologies, including turbocharging and advanced vehicle electronics. BMW of North America was established at this time, and consumers who coveted both sports and luxury cars became loyal Bimmer owners. The 70s also saw the birth of BMWs three-tier sport sedan range consisting of the compact 3 Series, midsize 5 Series and large 7 Series cars and the creation of its performance M division. Though the 3 Series could be had with four-cylinder power, it was the companys inline-6 engines that developed BMWs reputation for spirited, yet highly refined performance. At decades end, the limited-production, short-lived M1 supercar debuted. Throughout the 1980s, BMW became the unofficial poster car of yuppies, as the brand ostensibly signified ones financial success as well as a passion for driving. The elegant 6 Series coupe debuted and the latter part of the decade saw the high-performance M division working its magic on various production models. The early 1990s saw BMW replace the 6 Series with the powerful (V12-powered at first) but heavy 8 Series grand touring coupe while later that decade the Z3 roadster bowed. The company also opened its first U.S. manufacturing plant in the latter half of the 1990s. The 2000s brought a midsize SUV (the X5) as well as a compact SUV (the X3) as BMW joined the hot-selling segment. Since then, BMW has replaced the Z3 with the Z4, introduced the compact 1 Series, produced hybrid versions of a few models and debuted the X6 fastback crossover. The company has also expanded its empire to include Mini and Rolls-Royce and continues to build motorcycles, something it has done since the 1920s. The automakers famous advertising slogan describes each of its vehicles as the ultimate driving machine, and its not mere hyperbole. Over the past couple of decades, BMWs have become the standard for performance and luxury in most of the over $30,000 segments. With family-friendly wagons, crisp sedans, distinctive coupes, nimble sports cars and spacious SUVs offered, BMWs model roster is diverse. But its luxury vehicles all share a common characteristic: the ability to make drivers feel gloriously connected to the road.  [8]   The automobile industry in Europe  [9]   The auto sector is often credited as the engine room of Europe. The European Union is the homeland to a competitive and innovative automotive industry that generates activity throughout the economy from materials and parts supply, to RD and manufacturing, to sales and after-sales services. Manufacturers have trained and developed a highly-skilled workforce, producing quality products for home and international markets. Vehicle manufacturing supports over 2 million European jobs with an additional 10 million citizens employed in associated industries. Exports are valued at over  £70 billion annually. The automotive industry has also established itself as a partner in sustainability. Technological advances have brought real solutions, driving down harmful emissions from industry products and production sites. Manufacturers have spearheaded significant improvements in vehicle safety and embraced social responsibility goals. Annually, the industry invests  £20 billion in RD, more than any other private sector. Its drive towards sustainable mobility remains an ongoing commitment. BMWS Group Corporate Culture The BMW Group is one of the worlds leading car and motorcycle manufacturers with more than 100,000 employees in over 100 countries. With the brands BMW, MINI and Rolls Royce,BMW operate very successfully in the premium segment of the automobile and motorcycle industry. In order to consistently maintain the quality standards, BMW seek employees who possess team spirit and personal initiative, as well as an uncompromising desire to constantly further their knowledge. Because they are convinced that those who cease to improve have already ceased to be be good. High-efficiency culture. It is not only the technical know-how that makes BMW stand out considerably from other companies. In keeping with the quality standards of products, BMW corporate culture is a consistent high-efficiency culture. BMW constantly incite each other employee to become even better, to offer even better products. This is only possible through a pronounced team spirit. Critical reflection and self-critical advancement are only possible within a well-functioning team. Because they approach each other with respect and esteem, the employees have a strong team spirit the decisive prerequisite for success within a team. Satisfied and motivated employees are an invaluable competitive advantage to our company.   [10]   Basic principles: During the next decade BMW aim to secure a position as the worlds leading manufacturer of premium automobiles. For this reason all of companys strategies including the corporate culture are conceived on a long-term basis and are constantly target-oriented. BMW wish to utilise new chances and achieve a new level of efficiency,they aspire to create an atmosphere of optimism from which to draw the energy for necessary changes. The following principles of the BMW Group form the basis of this long-term and target-oriented action  [11]  : Customer orientation. Our customers decide whether or not our company is successful. Our customers are at the centre of all of our actions and the results of our actions must be judged from a perspective of their benefit to the customer. High efficiency. We aim to be the best. Each of us has to rise to this challenge, meaning that each employee must be prepared to achieve a high degree of efficiency. We aspire to belong to an elite, but without being arrogant, because it is the company and its products that count the most and nothing else. Responsibility. Each BMW Group employee bears personal responsibility for the success of the company. This also applies within a team, where each individual must be aware of his or her responsibility. In this respect we are fully aware that we all work together in achieving corporate goals. For this reason we also work together in the interests of the company. Effectiveness. Only sustainable and effective results are of benefit to the company. When assessing management, it is only the effect of performance on results that counts. Adaptability. In order to achieve continuous success we must adapt quickly and flexibly to new demands. Therefore, we regard change as a chance and the ability to adapt as the prerequisite for making use of this chance. Disagreement. In the search for the best solution everyone has the duty to bring to light any disagreement. The solutions found are then resolutely implemented by all involved. Respect, trust, fairness. We treat one another with respect. Management is based on mutual trust, trust is based on calculability and fairness. Employees. Business enterprises are made by people. Employees are our strongest factor of success. Consequently, personnel decisions belong to the most crucial decisions. Exemplary function. Every executive has an exemplary function. Sustainability. We regard sustainability as a lasting and positive contribution towards the economic success of the company. This is the basis of our ecological and social responsibility. Society. We consider awareness of social responsibility an inseparable part of our corporate self-conception. Independence. We secure the BMW Groups entrepreneurial independence through sustainable and profitable growth. Equality of opportunity BMW Group employees work in different countries on different continents. They are as diverse as is usually the case in our globalized world. It goes without saying that all of our employees are treated equally according to their qualifications and granted equal opportunities. So diversity is perfectly normal in our working lives. Diversity The diversity of the BMWs employees is one of their special strengths. It enhances the companys innovative capability and helps to gain ground in new markets. It broadens the pool of BMWs talents and competencies. Human diversity is therefore a key to the sustainable success of the BMW Group. Hence diversity is an important issue of the future. Human diversity also influences the cultural horizon within the company. As a result it becomes constantly broader, providing BMW with new aspects and perspectives. This enables to perceive new needs and trends far earlier and above all to understand them and to live with diversity. Sustainability management We have set ourselves the goal of integrating sustainability throughout the entire value chain and its underlying processes creating an added value for the company, the environment and society. Key elements of BMW Groups sustainability management include an environmental radar that is regularly extended to cover additional ecological and social aspects; ongoing dialogue with stakeholders; the inclusion of sustainability criteria in all decision-making processes; and a holistic approach to the entire value chain. The BMW Groups basic principles form the foundation of the companys long-term alignment. They establish, among other things, that being a good corporate citizen is an integral part of how the BMW Group defines itself as a company. Furthermore, sustainability is regarded as making a positive contribution to the companys economic success. According to the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, the BMW Group is currently the worlds most sustainable carmaker. The company was named industry leader in these important global sustainability indices for the fifth consecutive year in 2009. Numerous other ratings and awards also confirm the companys lead role in the field of sustainability. But for the BMW Group this is only the beginning. It is obvious that sustainability is set to play an even bigger role in defining premium mobility of the future from environmentally-friendly drive trains and resource-friendly production processes to new, sustainable services in the field of individual mobility. In the future, premium will inevitably comprise the concept of sustainability. The manufacturer with the more efficient and resource-friendly production, who offers the most visionary solutions for eco-friendly individual mobility, will have the competitive edge. BMW position At the BMW Group, sustainability is not just the responsibility of one particular department. All employees are called upon to implement elements of corporate sustainability in their area of responsibility. Here the members of the Board of Management of BMW AG discuss how their individual divisions define corporate sustainability. The BMW Group and its BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands epitomise joy, passion and success. The aim is to actively shape the future. To achieve this, we are making sustainability an increasingly integral part of our value chain. Sustainability should be the defining principle of how we design our processes and procedures. Our company has been changing its approach over recent years. The revision of the BMW Groups sustainability strategy was the next logical step and an important milestone. But there is still some way to go. Economics  [12]   The BMWs corporate Strategy Number ONE is creating the best conditions for long-term value creation and sustainability. Our vision is to be the worlds leading provider of premium products and premium services in the automotive industry. As we see it, this also means being a leader in the field of sustainability. From an economic point of view, issues such as compliance, anti-corruption and risk management form the backbone of corporate responsibility. In late 2007, the BMW Group presented its new corporate Strategy Number ONE. The vision: To be the leading provider of premium products and premium services for individual mobility. To reach this goal, the company needs to focus consistently on growth and profitability; to constantly develop new technologies; to guarantee access to relevant customer groups; and, most importantly, to actively shape the future. These key fields of action are the four pillars of Strategy Number ONE. Everything BMW do is based on the twelve basic principles the Board of Management defined in Strategy Number ONE: Customer orientation The customer and benefit for the customer are at the heart of everything the company does. Peak performance -The company and all its employees aim to be the best. Responsibility Every employee shares the responsibility for the companys success. Effectiveness Only results which have a lasting effect count. Adaptability Flexibility as a crucial prerequisite for success. Dissent As we strive to find the best solution, we are frank with each other. Respect, trust, fairness The basis of successful cooperation. Employees The strongest factor in a companys success. Leading by example Every manager has to be aware that he / she is a role model and should act accordingly. Sustainability Acting sustainably is an element of our corporate responsibility and a contribution to value creation. Society Social responsibility is an integral part of our corporate self-image. Independence Sustained profitable growth secures the corporate independence of the BMW Group. Based on these principles, the BMW Group has established a focused approach to master the current crisis. Priorities are to secure the companys sound financial footing and its liquidity as well as to develop attractive, trendsetting products. Over the past five years, the company has invested a total of over 21 billion euros in its future, an amount that also reflects the BMW Groups technological expertise and the pace at which innovations are developed. With its corporate Strategy Number ONE, the BMW Group is setting the course for tomorrows dynamic growth. For more detailed information on the financial year and our latest figures please refer to the current Annual Report. Employees-Basic principles During the next decade we aim to secure our position as the worlds leading manufacturer of premium automobiles. For this reason all of our strategies including our corporate culture are conceived on a long-term basis and are constantly target-oriented. We established this prerequisite when we launched our Strategy Number ONE. The Vision: to become the worlds leading provider of premium products and premium services for individual mobility. To this end, the BMW Group concentrates on profitability and sustained value creation. The companys four strategic pillars also include growth, shaping the future and access to technologies and customers. The following principles of the BMW Group form the basis of this long-term and target-oriented action:  [13]   Customer orientation Our customers decide whether or not our company is successful. Our customers are at the centre of all of our actions and the results of our actions must be judged from a perspective of their benefit to the customer. Peak performance We aim to be the best. Each of us has to rise to this challenge, meaning that each employee must be prepared to achieve a high degree of efficiency. We aspire to belong to an elite, but without being arrogant, because it is the company and its products that count the most and nothing else. Responsibility Each BMW Group employee bears personal responsibility for the success of the company. This also applies within a team, where each individual must be aware of his or her responsibility. In this respect we are fully aware that we all work together in achieving corporate goals. For this reason we also work together in the interests of the company. Effectiveness Only sustainable and effective results are of benefit to the company. When assessing management, it is only the effect of performance on results that counts. Adaptability In order to achieve continuous success we must adapt quickly and flexibly to new demands. Therefore, we regard change as a chance and the ability to adapt as the prerequisite for making use of this chance. Dissent In the search for the best solution everyone has the duty to bring to light any disagreement. The solutions found are then resolutely implemented by all involved.

Ethical Issues Related to Fetal Tissue Research :: Ethics Religion Essays

Ethical Issues Related to Fetal Tissue Research The use of fetal tissue in biomedical research has been a hot topic for debate in social and political forums ever sense the landmark decision in the 1973 case of Roe vs. Wade (Beller & Weir 182). The decision of the Supreme Court to give women the right to abort a fetus without having a medical reason for doing so, sparked controversy which has affected any medical procedure or research dealing with fetuses (Bellar &Weir 182). Supporters of fetal tissue research believe it has too much potential to provide cures for many of the diseases and medical problems that plague today’s society for it to be halted. Opponents of this type of research believe it should be stopped because it is unethical to take the life of one human being in order to preserve the life of another. Until the ruling in Roe vs. Wade experiments involving fetal tissue were conducted without any scrutiny from the public sector (Maynard-Moody 13). The first documented procedure involving the transplant of fetal tissue was carried out by Italian researchers in 1928, doctors transplanted the pancreas of a fetus into a diabetes patient, the patient showed no signs of improvement (Maynard-Moody 11). Research involving fetal tissue didn’t become widespread until the 1960’s. In 1957, a non-habit-forming sleeping pill was released in Europe. The pill was widely used in Europe, but not approved in the United States. A few years after the release of the drug there was a sharp rise in the amount of European babies born with phocomelia or â€Å"seal limbs† this increase was traced back to the drug (Maynard-Moody 11). Shortly after this medical disaster, the United States government passed legislation that made pharmaceutical companies prove drugs were not harmful to unborn children before they could be prescribed for pregnant women. The need to test pharmaceuticals prompted an explosive growth in the amount of money and resources used for fetal tissue research (Maynard-Moody 13). During the late 60’s and early 70’s this research was viewed as a new and exciting field of medicine and many important medical advances were made. But after the ruling in Roe vs. Wade fetal tissue research was brought under the scrutiny of pro-life advocates, seeking to protect the rights of unborn children (Maynard-Moody 13).

Causes of World War 1 :: essays research papers

The First World War began in August 1914. It was directly triggered by the assassination of the Austrian archduke, Franz Ferdinand and his wife, on 28th June 1914 by Bosnian revolutionary, Gavrilo Princip. This event was, however, simply the trigger that set off declarations of war. The actual causes of the war are more complicated and are still debated by historians today. Causes of the war also dealt with such ideologies as Nationalism, Imperialism and militarism along with the prominent alliance systems and the naval race. One of the main causes of the First World War is Kaiser Wilhelm 11. Kaiser Wilhelm 11 One of the causes of the outbreak of the war was Kaiser Wilhelm 11 ambitious aim. He had many aims but his main aim is to make Germany the superior. The German Kaiser was extremely envious of Britain for having a larger navy than that of Germany's and ordered the production of new Dreadnought-class battleships. Britain responded to the Germans attempt to equal its navy by creating a navy so large and powerful that no other nation's navy would ever contemplate an attack. This head-to-head production period was known as the "Arms Race" and created more tension between the two nations. Navy Alliances a system of military alliances was formed to provide European powers with a sense of security. There were two rivalling alliances The Triple Alliance consisted of the Central Powers, Germany and Austria-Hungary that had existed since 1879 when Bismarck had befriended the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the agreement, both countries pledged that they would go to the aid of the other if attacked by Russia. This was done to ensure that Germany would always have an allied nation on its border if war were to occur. Italy later joined this alliance in 1882, which remained in tact until the beginning of World War I. The conditions of the alliance changed after Italy was added and stated that countries would aid any other that was under attack from two or more countries. The other alliance: The Triple Entente, was made up of Great Britain, France and Russia. As a result of Germanys build-up in naval resources, Great Britain was forced to abandon its isolation policy and adopt allies. France joined Great Britain in 1904. Unlike the Triple alliance, this agreement contained no promises of military support, although the two powers began to talk of joint military plans. The Triple Entente was completed when Russia joined in 1907.

Human Responsibilities in Domestic Breeding Essay -- Animals, Domesti

Human Responsibilities in Domestic Breeding Introduction For centuries humans have taken on the role of selectively breeding various animals in the pursuit of specific traits or behaviors. A question that is often ignored, and which I want to address, is what responsibility do the breeders have in selecting dam and sires for a mating, in regard to the offspring from that cross. In the past, animals were regarded with varying levels of respect and moral status. In early hunter-gather societies, animals were perceived as being fully rational, sentient and intelligent beings and thus be treated with due respect and consideration (1). With the advent of animal husbandry came changes in the way animals were viewed. Initially, it was common to elevate them to the status of â€Å"zoomorphic gods† and incorporated strict respect and kindness toward animals (1)(2). The respect towards animals changed over time and the different views became very disparate. Some groups saw animals merely as tools and others advocated vegetarianism and virtual ly equal moral status with humans. The beginnings of modern science, in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries drastically diminished the moral status of animals, due in part to the ideas of Rene Descartes. [reference] Animals were widely seen as organic but soulless matter, similar to a machine. These views supported vivisections and other degradations towards animals as acceptable. Today, a whole spectrum exists on the moral status of animals, however, I believe the most convincing is the Equal Consideration and Unequal Moral Status proposed by David Degrazia (3). Basically, Degrazia proposes that the lives of humans and animals are relevantly different and an animal could be harmed if â€Å"needful†. .. ...ay not have any interests in common with humans, through selective mating. This last point adds a layer of complexity to the decision-making process but does not change the ethics in this case based on Wasserman’s argument. For example if, for whatever reason, a dog wanted long hair but the breeder thought that short hair would be more comfortable due to the climate, the breeder does not wrong the offspring because his motivation was, in his perspective, best for the offspring. Conclusion Therefore, based on the argument by Rollins we have an obligation to all domestic animals because we have fashioned a world where they are no longer capable of living on their own. Furthermore, having taken the responsibility to selectively breed them we have the duty to provide the proper balance of genetic diversity because that is in the best interests of the offspring.

Chapter 4 Of Carter’s Book Essay

Warren Carter’s book offers the necessary understanding of the Christianity’s initial stages. The book’s structure is such that it revolves around seven important events that had a great impact on Christianity in early times. They briefly include the following: the demise of Alexander , comparison between Jesus and Alexander, the translation’ process of scriptures from Hebrew to Greek, the Jerusalem temple rededication that analyses the Maccabean revolt and its contribution to Jewish identity and the occupation of Romans of Judea gives a description of the roman rule in Judea and the Christian’s response on it. The chapter also include: Jesus’s crucifixion as addressed in the fifth event and herein an explanation is given for his crucifixion, the next event is the writing of the texts in the New Testament and the final event is the process of closure of the New Testament Canon. In this book, Carter explores both social and historical contexts. He explores the significance of the happenings during development of Christianity in early times. Even though the book’s content is in an ancient context, that reflections are relevant in today’s times. Chapter 4 discusses the existence of Roman’s power in Judea and the cities around it by Pompey who was the commander and the traitor of Judeans King Herod. It also shows the historical events that Judeans went over during that early time. In chapter 4, it highlights the Roman occupation of Judea and the takeover by Rome as it maintained power. Carter notes that â€Å"when imperial power is asserted, winners and losers will always be there†. The biggest losers in this case were Hasmoneans and Judeans while the winners were Romans, King Herod and his sons Archelaus, Antipas, and Philip. In the chapter, Herod has kept a tight grip of Judea. As a leader, he is quite biased and exercise ruthless power over his subjects regardless of them being Roman or Jewish. His actions were ridiculous as he was willing to commit any crime in order to satisfy his ambition. He would punish and execute anyone objecting his way of ruling even close people such as his wife, children, and his mother in law. Also, he was willing to do whatever is needed to maintain and please his relationship with his Romans bosses because he realized that Rome’s empire had started. On the other hand, he was successful in maintaining a tight grip because of his development projects in Judea. Herod offered excuses for being such a vicious ruler such that Judeans were in constant negotiation with him. The approaches to negotiation were as follows: â€Å"some waited for God’s actions through the Messiah while others found justice in entirely different ways† . There was a mixture of different things that happened in the period, and others sought for independence and a secure future, and some were violent in an endeavor to be more appealing to the Romans. The locals thus had varying evaluation of the rulers with some applauding them and others rebuking them in totality. The Judeans chose different ways in which they negotiated Roman presence and power. According to Carter, these negotiations involved the faith they placed in the Messiah. This was such that they waited for the intervention of the Lord through the Messiah’s sending. In so doing, they were in constant prayer with the hope that everything will change to the better. Others consulted and explored it through different ways that entailed involvement in acts of violence. The Judeans believed that the Messiah would save them from King Herod’s oppressive rule as well as the desecrating Romans. Several approaches have been used in trying to represent opposition and accommodate them in studying the New Testament. This methodology focuses mostly on power of ideological power struggles between imperial and native forces. In the first century CE, chapter 4 discusses how the Roman Empire exercised political authority over Jewish authorities. The mark’s gospel represents a form of resistant literature. This resistant indicates that Jesus ‘portrayal is not an attempt to abolish the whole structure of Empire but replacement to the emperor with the true Lord. This Postcolonial criticism is clear attempts to explore how authors in the ancient tried to negotiate dynamic power as a subjugated group’s members. In this chapter, one is enlightened on the genesis of Christian movement and in so doing helping in the understanding of the New Testament. In this discussion, it lights many historical events that may not briefly showed or discussed in details in Matthewâ€⠄¢s Gospel in the New Testament. In addition, the diversity selection of stories chosen by Carter in the emergence of the New Testament plays a huge role in giving more insights into its development. The factual information provided on the development of Christianity plays a significant role of shading light on the situation of events. The socio-cultural happenings offer a new perspective on the New Testament. The several illustrations in the book and the textual aids play a huge role in making the reader understand the New Testament fully. In the chapters of Carter’s book, both social and historical contexts are well explored. He explores the significance of events in that time to the development of Christianity in early times. Even though the chapter’s content is in an ancient context, the reflections are relevant in today’s times. Warren Carter’s book offers the necessary understanding of the initial stages of Christianity. The book’s structure is to revolve around seven important events that had a great impact on Christianity in early times. This chapter thus plays a tremendous role in further understanding of the New Testament to modern day Christians. The historical happening put things in perspective and assists in the following of the stories revealed in the New Testament. References Carter, Warren. Seven Events that Shaped the New Testament World. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2013. Source document

Beowulf

Bri Beowulf Imagery Beowulf is an intense and suspenseful epic poem and what makes it worth reading is the use of imagery. What would the world be like without imagery? Imagery is used in everything read today. Books, magazines, even the backs of movie cases. The world of reading would be different without imagery. And Burton Raffel made sure that Beowulf was full of said imagery, especially during the first, second, and third climaxes of the poem. In Beowulf, the imagery for the first climax is full of surprise, violence and suspense. The suspense starts when Grendel snatches up the first Geat he sees and tears him apart. Imagery is used to intensify Grendel’s actions by tenfold. For example, â€Å"Grendel snatched at the first Geat/ he came to, ripped him apart, cut/ his body to bits with powerful jaws,/ drank his blood from his veins and bolted/ him down, hands and feet/ (line 739, page 46). Without that gruesome and violent imagery, Grendel would seem meek and boring. But that only begins the suspense and violence of the first climax. Imagery is greatly used when Beowulf and Grendel battle to the death. Beowulf fought Grendel and he â€Å"fastened those claws in his fists till they cracked,† (line 760, page 47) which shows that Beowulf was a strong entity and without the imagery, we wouldn’t quite grasp how inhumanly strong Beowulf was. Herot trembled while they battled which gives us the interpretation that the battle was intense and if Burton Raffel had not incorporated that bit in the story, we wouldn’t understand how extreme the battle between the two foes was. Lastly, imagery is used to show Grendel’s death. For example, â€Å"He twisted in pain/ And the bleeding sinews deep in his shoulder snapped, muscle and bone split/ And broke,† (line 815, page 480) which just proves that without the imagery during his death, Grendel would have died a very non descriptive and utterly unimportant death. Without imagery, the first climax would be dull, lifeless, and not in the least bit suspenseful. Not only is there imagery in the first climax, but it is also present in the second climax as well. With Grendel dead, it leaves Grendel’s’ mum in a fit of despair and rage so she travels to Herot to avenge Grendel’s death. The imagery is violent and animalistic. For example, â€Å"Smashing their shining swords, their bloody/ Hammer-forged blades onto boar-shaped helmets,/ Slashing and stabbing with the sharpest of points,† (line 1285, page 64) shows the Geats preparing to kill Grendel’s mum, but she ends up victimizing Hrothgar’s closest friend who was â€Å"sheltered in her dripping claws,† (line 1295, page 64). The mental image that this climax contains renders the fact that if there was no present imagery, Grendel’s mum would not have an important character line. She would just be a mother that missed her child, not a blood thirsty, venomous monster that captured an important person. The imagery for the second climax was just as well done as the first one and it exceeded in creating a violent and suspenseful atmosphere. And now, here is the imagery for the final climax. In this climax, a dragon entered the scene and brought imagery along with it. For example, â€Å"Vomiting fire and smoke, the dragon/ Burned down their homes. They watched in horror/ As the flames rose up: the angry monster/ Meant to leave nothing alive. And the signs/ Of its anger flickered and glowed in the darkness, visible for miles, tokens of its hate/ And its cruelty, spread like a warning to the Geats who had broken its rest. † (line 2312, page 95) This part of the poem shows us the dragon’s rage and its ill conclusion to burn down everything in its path. Without this wonderful and descriptive segment, the dragon would just be another creature and would pose no threat. But with this imagery, the dragon is depicted as a horrible monster that thirsts for terror and chaos. Not only does the dragon cause chaos, but it’s actually the cause of Beowulf’s departure to the world. A tusk wound to Beowulf’s neck seals his fate. The imagery for Beowulf’s fatal wound is dreadful and gruesome. â€Å"Watching for its chance it drove its tusk/ Into Beowulf’s neck; he staggered, the blood/ Came flooding forth, fell like rain,† (line 2691, page 106). This imagery is what makes this poem the successful composition it is today. As written above, during the first, second, and third climaxes of the poem, imagery was the key ingredient to making a delicious cake. The world without imagery would be a bland, plain, and unexciting place to live. Books would be full of sentences only approved by preschoolers and they wouldn’t be as enjoyable as they are today. Burton Raffel did a mesmerizing job with captivating the readers of Beowulf with scenes of despair, gore, hope, and faith. Raffel couldn’t have done a better job. â€Å"And so Beowulf’s followers/ Rode, mourning their beloved leader,/ Crying that no better king had ever/ Lived, no prince so mild, no man/ So open to his people, so deserving of praise. † Beowulf Gangster rap and music, because these genres have a higher chance of having b ad language, profanity, violence, and other mature content. Today the focus Is largely on gangster rap and sexually explicit hip hop lyrics. His music Is know as the music of youth because the number of teenage kids are starting to listen to these genres are increasing compared to previous genre actions. This is making arenas concerned about what their kids are listening to. When children listen to mums ICC with violence and profanity it could influence kids to make bad decisions. Some people may think race isn't a part of music censorship but it plays a huge role. † music included freely expressed surreal desires, clear drug references, and other fee turns that were not as prevalent In other forms of popular music. † says the first amendment website.R& B is dominated by sec. In today's society all different types of music is played and listened to be all different races. Who n R&B's audience ex panded to include mainstream white people this became a threat to older whites w ho considered R a threat that med younger people misbehave. â€Å"now image there's a shorts, maybe five maybe four. Riding around with his mama list engine to the radio. And a song comes on and not far from being born. Doesn't know the difference from right and wrong. Now I mint trying to make it complex but lets Just say shorts has undeveloped c intent. About the perception of women these days. Is mama sings along and this I what she says ‘nigh as, IM a bad pitch, ND IM bad pitch something that's far above average' † this is another lyric from lope fiasco song bad pitch. These lyrics stand out to me because this verse is talking about a mother singing g his to her son who is listening to the radio with his mom at the age of five and is listening to this. I think that when it comes the the radio releasing music there should be censorship and retire CDC should be a n original copy and other s could be the censored copies so children won't have to go through this with b Ewing the care and their mom singing along to such degrading song. Beowulf Or is It directly? As a descendant of Cain offerings huffed in Canines scene' (line 107), who murdered his own brother, the narrator makes It a given notion that this cannibalistic human monster Greened has no hope to a good end. It Is his evil character that makes It possible for Beowulf to become the hero In this story. One cannot fight evil when there Is none. If one takes the angle of Greened being human, albeit an human monster, one can question some of the views the narrator gives. When Greened comes to Horror the narrator states he bears God's anger; ‘Ad com of more under misanthrope Greened conga.Goddess yore BRB(lines 10-711). If one believes he is a human, how then can he bear God's anger? God is divine, and only He can show His anger. Later on the narrator states Greened wants to seek the company of devils: Would on holster felon secant deafly egged (linesmen-756). This would be more plausible, as he is seen as a human monster, he would take sides with the evil part in the story; the devil. In the end, Greened, mortally wounded goes back the fen and moor where he dies and goes to hell; ‘Pr him hell inferno (line 852) because no matter what he was, his actions made is soul lost.When Beowulf Is In Horror the first evening when he arrived, he Is confronted by a Dane. Hunter, who Is, In fact, a murderer, having killed his own brother, questions Beowulf heroism. Instead of dismissing this attack Beowulf SW seashores SW PÃ'Ëœ self tales' (lines 593-594). Moreover Beowulf points out Hunter's deed towards his brother to banana warded h ©food ©gum as PÃ'Ëœ in hell escalates' (lines 587-588). What strikes me is that everybody knows he has killed his brother he has not been punished, that we know of.In this case it seems to me that the narrator wants the audience to believe that punishment is given by God, not by humans. In conclusion God ruled over the fate of Greened through Beowulf actions. As the story still goes on, we don't know the fates of Beowulf or Hunter yet. When they die, however they die, their fates will be determined at the gates and can still go either way as God can have mercy on Hunter, or decide to punish him still. Beowulf fate, as an instrument of God, should be easy to determine. He used Beowulf to determine Grenade's fate, and he should be rewarded as such. Beowulf The similarities and differences within Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales are quite evident after reading both texts. Both authors, Beowulf, by Anonymous and The Canterbury Tales, by Geoffrey Chaucer use literary devices to convey their message in each poem. There are similarities and differences within characters, tone, images and symbols. Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales are two similar poems but are written with different styles and literary devices. Beowulf and The Miller’s Tale are great examples of two poems that share similarities, yet provide a contrast between the mores of the 14th century and our current society. In both poems, for instance, the traits of the characters portray social values which are different from society today. In Beowulf, the characters are depicted as brave, strong, kind and devoted to their leaders. The characters suggest that society during this time valued loyalty, obedience and glory. Characters were recognized for their strength and success in battle. Beowulf is first mentioned and described as the greatest warrior alive. Beowulf states, â€Å"So every elder and experienced councilman among my people supported my resolve to come here to you, King Hrothgar, because all knew of my awesome strength† (Beowulf, 36). In modern society, men are valued for their good looks or wealth and not their success as a warrior. In The Miller’s Tale, the characters are also portrayed in a way that is different than society today. The miller emphasizes that intelligence is the most important characteristic in a person and not wealth. He talks about Nicholas and how his intelligence helped him trick the carpenter. Although the carpenter was wealthy, this did not give him an advantage when it came to Nicholas’s plan. Society today is focused more on wealth and status instead of education. People believe that education is not needed as long as you are wealthy, and that you will have an advantage in life as long as you have money. This clearly goes against the miller’s belief that education is more important than wealth. Beowulf and The Miller’s Tale are different in the way that they portray women. In Beowulf, women were loyal to their husbands and respected their family and themselves. They had certain duties as a wife or mother and they made sure their job was done well. In The Miller’s Tale, Allison is portrayed in a different way. She is a typical woman with beautiful features that all men are thirsty for. She is not loyal to her husband and uses her beauty as a way to get attention from other men. In the poem, Allison uses sympathy to trick her husband into leaving so she can be alone with Nicholas. The poem states, â€Å"Help us to scape, or we been dede eechoon. I am thy trwew verray wedded wif: Go, dere spouse, and help to save or lif† (Chaucer, 209). This showed the lack of loyalty Allison had for her husband John, and how she was able to trick him into leaving her and Nicholas alone. Allison is unaware of her behavior and acts like cheating on her husband is okay. The lack of respect she has for her husband and for herself is different than the women in Beowulf. The Miller’s Tale and Beowulf also have different tones and imagery. The tone of Beowulf is more serious and gruesome and the imagery is more vibrant. The narrator talks about the battles and characters with much detail so the reader can pinpoint the importance of what the narrator is saying. When talking about Grendel, the narrator makes sure the reader can tell that he is not just a demon, but a â€Å"captain of evil†. The poem states, â€Å"He grabbed and mauled a man on his bench, bit into his bone-lappings, bolted down his blood and gorged on him in lumps† (Beowulf, 42). Grendel is described in a more detailed and gruesome way and this shows the reader the seriousness of Grendel’s character. The detailed description also puts a clear image into the readers head. The Miller’s Tale has a more straightforward and comedic tone. Events are described without personal insight from the narrator. The tone becomes comedic as the narrator describes the events in a way that seems like he is unaware of what he is saying. For example, when Absolon kisses Allison’s butt, the narrator describes it like it is no big deal. The poem states, â€Å"But with his mouth he kiste hir naked ers, ful savourly, er he were war of this† (Chaucer, 212). The reader could imagine what is going on, but the lack of detail does not make the image as clear or virbrant. The narrator’s sense of humor and lack of attention to what he or she is saying also brings humor to the poem. The Wife of Bath, also by Geoffrey Chaucer, has a similarity to Beowulf. Both poems contain symbolism. In the prologue of The Wife of Bath, the wife compares herself and other women to loaves of bread. The wheat bread symbolizes virgins while the less-expensive barley bread symbolizes wives. She makes the point that virgins or white bread may be preferred, but barley bread is just as nice. The poem states, â€Å"I won’t envy them virginity: let them be white bread of finest wheat, and let us wives be called barley bread†¦ † (Chaucer,189). The wife continues to compare the bread to the sexuality of her youth. In Beowulf, there is also symbolism. The great banquet that is held at Herorot after the defeat of Grendel symbolizes the restoration of order and peace to the Danish people. There is rebuilding of the damaged mead-hall and this also symbolizes the rebirth of the community. Although the author of Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales are different, both poems have there similarities. The way that the characters are portrayed and how their descriptions conflict with society today is similar and both poems use symbolism. The differences of Beowulf and The Canterbury Tales are seen within the tone, images and the portrayal of women. The similarities and differences are emphasized in each poem as the authors’ writing style is examined, along with the use of literary devices. Beowulf Or is It directly? As a descendant of Cain offerings huffed in Canines scene' (line 107), who murdered his own brother, the narrator makes It a given notion that this cannibalistic human monster Greened has no hope to a good end. It Is his evil character that makes It possible for Beowulf to become the hero In this story. One cannot fight evil when there Is none. If one takes the angle of Greened being human, albeit an human monster, one can question some of the views the narrator gives. When Greened comes to Horror the narrator states he bears God's anger; ‘Ad com of more under misanthrope Greened conga.Goddess yore BRB(lines 10-711). If one believes he is a human, how then can he bear God's anger? God is divine, and only He can show His anger. Later on the narrator states Greened wants to seek the company of devils: Would on holster felon secant deafly egged (linesmen-756). This would be more plausible, as he is seen as a human monster, he would take sides with the evil part in the story; the devil. In the end, Greened, mortally wounded goes back the fen and moor where he dies and goes to hell; ‘Pr him hell inferno (line 852) because no matter what he was, his actions made is soul lost.When Beowulf Is In Horror the first evening when he arrived, he Is confronted by a Dane. Hunter, who Is, In fact, a murderer, having killed his own brother, questions Beowulf heroism. Instead of dismissing this attack Beowulf SW seashores SW PÃ'Ëœ self tales' (lines 593-594). Moreover Beowulf points out Hunter's deed towards his brother to banana warded h ©food ©gum as PÃ'Ëœ in hell escalates' (lines 587-588). What strikes me is that everybody knows he has killed his brother he has not been punished, that we know of.In this case it seems to me that the narrator wants the audience to believe that punishment is given by God, not by humans. In conclusion God ruled over the fate of Greened through Beowulf actions. As the story still goes on, we don't know the fates of Beowulf or Hunter yet. When they die, however they die, their fates will be determined at the gates and can still go either way as God can have mercy on Hunter, or decide to punish him still. Beowulf fate, as an instrument of God, should be easy to determine. He used Beowulf to determine Grenade's fate, and he should be rewarded as such. Beowulf Gangster rap and music, because these genres have a higher chance of having b ad language, profanity, violence, and other mature content. Today the focus Is largely on gangster rap and sexually explicit hip hop lyrics. His music Is know as the music of youth because the number of teenage kids are starting to listen to these genres are increasing compared to previous genre actions. This is making arenas concerned about what their kids are listening to. When children listen to mums ICC with violence and profanity it could influence kids to make bad decisions. Some people may think race isn't a part of music censorship but it plays a huge role. † music included freely expressed surreal desires, clear drug references, and other fee turns that were not as prevalent In other forms of popular music. † says the first amendment website.R& B is dominated by sec. In today's society all different types of music is played and listened to be all different races. Who n R&B's audience ex panded to include mainstream white people this became a threat to older whites w ho considered R a threat that med younger people misbehave. â€Å"now image there's a shorts, maybe five maybe four. Riding around with his mama list engine to the radio. And a song comes on and not far from being born. Doesn't know the difference from right and wrong. Now I mint trying to make it complex but lets Just say shorts has undeveloped c intent. About the perception of women these days. Is mama sings along and this I what she says ‘nigh as, IM a bad pitch, ND IM bad pitch something that's far above average' † this is another lyric from lope fiasco song bad pitch. These lyrics stand out to me because this verse is talking about a mother singing g his to her son who is listening to the radio with his mom at the age of five and is listening to this. I think that when it comes the the radio releasing music there should be censorship and retire CDC should be a n original copy and other s could be the censored copies so children won't have to go through this with b Ewing the care and their mom singing along to such degrading song. Beowulf Sample Essay on Beowulf The epic story of Beowulf depicts a young man destined to find his place in Anglo-Saxon society as a hero, the deliverer of his people. Set out from his youth, Beowulf was enthralled, perhaps obsessed, with the idea of fame and accomplishment. His thirst for both fueled the remainder of his life as a leader amongst leaders and a true hero in the entire sense of the term. Finally, the tale concludes with the true mark of a hero, the ability to pass the torch on to a younger generation to which he has offered guidance, wisdom, and experience under his wing.Beowulf truly does deliver his people to their destiny and ensures that this destiny remains for years to come after his departure. Unlike most heroes in literature that are often portrayed as having humble beginnings, Beowulf’s youth is relatively fortunate and comfortable. Nevertheless, Beowulf’s obvious passion to achieve the Anglo-Saxon value of fame and honor is unwavering and will lead him to his eventual fate. Beowulf is singled out early as a â€Å"superior being† amongst his peers. â€Å"[†¦] Beowulf, Higlac’s/ Follower and the strongest of the Geats—stronger than anyone anywhere in this world—[†¦]†(ll. 09-111) This distinction that he was of superior physical capabilities quickly led Beowulf to develop and inherit a superior mental capacity, one filled with an ability to lead and an aura of pompousness that he took with him to battle and amongst his people. This is demonstrated when the tale explains, â€Å"Beowulf arose with his men/ Around him, ordering a few to remain/ With their weapons, leading the others quickly[†¦]† (ll. 134-136) Beowulf’s leadership is characteristic of a true hero and one whom will continue on to deliver his people.Beowulf’s true talent was best displayed in the various competitions and battles he engaged in throughout his famed tale. His unwavering confidence and perh aps boastful personality struck not only fear but also awe and inspiration into the hearts and minds of his people. â€Å"My hands/ Alone shall fight for me, struggle for life/ Against the monster,†(ll. 172-174) Beowulf boldly claimed as he prepared to confront Grendel in battle. Beowulf’s audacity is exemplified through this and many acts of uncontrollable valor and courage. Thus is the root of his people’s admiration and their desire to follow in his ways and under his guidance.As if this was not enough to remind the people of Beowulf’s accomplishments and feats, Beowulf was compelled to ensure his status and society and seal his place in fame. â€Å"The victory, for the proof, hanging high/ From the rafters where Beowulf had hung it, was the monster’s/ Arm, claw, and shoulder and all. † (ll. 515-517) Beowulf, through the actions, accomplishments, and everlasting pursuit of his dream of fame, gained the respect of his people and prepared h imself for true kingly status and to gain the recognition as the deliverer of his people.Perhaps the greatest mark of a hero is his or her ability to not only lead a life of good deeds and tremendous feats, but also to train and educate the youth in order for his or her society to perpetuate. Beowulf’s character is certainly one to do this and thus is the reason he may be dubbed a deliverer. Beowulf makes a significant impact upon his followers, in particular the soldiers he had chosen to be with him. One in particular, Wiglaf, makes a spirited speech amongst his fellow soldiers as Beowulf has gone off to fight without their aide. In this address Wiglaf declares, â€Å" ‘Our glorious king!By almighty G-d,/ I’d rather burn myself than see/ Flames swirling around my lord. † (ll. 780-782) Such a comment makes one question how much of an impact they can truly have on their peers. To have such awe inspiring powers so as to gain the trust and respect of your men to the extent that they would indeed take greater pleasure in their deaths than that of their own is truly incredible. This is the recognition point for the reader in which he or she can truly tell that Beowulf has delivered his people into a new generation. In the final crowning moment of any life, one can only wish for a companion to pass on his or her legacy.Such a characteristic is inherit in the life of hero, and this is no different than the end of Beowulf’s life. â€Å"[†¦]telling stories/ Of their [soldiers] dead king and his greatness, his glory,/ Praising him for his heroic deeds, for a life/ As noble as his name. † Not only had Beowulf become a figure of fame in his life, but he had obtained the ultimate fame: Beowulf had become a legend, and, in that, Beowulf would forever continue to teach his lessons and to demonstrate his talent for generations to come as he had successfully delivered his people, the Geats.