Volunteer

Name of organization: Habitat for Humanity
Location: Sarasota, Florida
Volunteer hours: 7:20 am-12:00 pm
When? October 11, 2008
What did you do? Help build a house by nailing nails
What did you learn: That with the desire and the willingness of helping others great things can happen.
What are your future plans? Since I liked this experience so much, I would like to keep volunteering for this organization

Get out of jail free card

Count for 3 extra credit activities!!!!

The 1st book that I liked the most

When I was in high school I did not like reading. It was so boring for me... I think it was because I was lazy to find a book, sit down, and read it. In my AP Spanish class we (the students) had to read a book that the teacher will give you, it was required. When my teacher gave me the book I said: "Crap, now I have to read this thing." However, the book was getting interesting as I continued reading it. The book is called Juventud en Extasis; it is a Spanish book about problems that youth experience with drugs, sex, and personal relationships. The reading was very interesting, because the problems presented were so true that I can picture them while reading. Sometimes it was twelve o'clock and I felt like I had to finish it, because if not I would not be able to go to sleep. And by the way, the book had two parts, so as soon as I finished the first book I ran to my teacher's classroom to read the second one. Since that moment I started liking reading books and immersing myself into a complete new world, a world that only the reader knows.

Perfect Attendance!!!

Count for 4 extra credit activities!!!

Project Analysis 3: Reflect/Action

Reflect

Right now, all I have done for my project analysis #3 is have found four modes (song, book,artwork,and movie) that have a connection to my title; Language Barriers. This project is something that really involves me and grabs my focus and attention, because I am a Hispanic student, and also because I have experienced language barriers when I moved to the United States. All the four modes have a strong relationship with the issue being presented. The four modes have been analyzed to find ethos, pathos, and logos in each one of them. These four modes will be the voice that will talk about this issue, and also represent that the problem with language barriers can be found everywhere; in the artistic world, in the literary world, in the musical world, and in the cinematographic world.

Action

For this project I am planning to make a visual presentation that will include the four modes mentioned above. I am also thinking in making a power point presentation that will grab the attention of the public. For the movie, I am planning to find a clip that shows the problem with language, so that the public will know what is the movie about. For the song, I will post the lyrics in a decorative way, and maybe find a way to put the song so the public can hear it as well. For the book and artwork I am going to print out some images of both, so others can see them. Right know I have to rent the movie and watch it, so I can get something out of it. Also, I have to listen to the song and see if the person implemented a personal feeling that can express type of emotion regarding the issue. I feel pretty good about all this project, because it is a great way to demonstrate how much work you have done about something that you care about.

Extra Credit: Week 1

This extra credit activity about donating rice by getting the words correctly was so much fun! It was a great academic exercise for me, because I am still learning English. After donating 1000 grains of rice in the first exercise, I changed the subject to Spanish, to keep practicing my native language. I feel really good, because I was donating food to these poor people by practicing my English skills and Spanish skills too! This is amazing! =]

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Shaman & Stories are Alive)

Vogler, Christopher. “Shaman & Stories are Alive.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 293-312.

Summary

Just like the hero has been through a lot of things during his/her journey, the writer also experiences stages when writing a story. In fact, Vogler states that: “The Hero’s Journey and the Writer’s Journey are one and the same” (293). It is not easy for writers to write a story; it requires a lot of effort, critical thinking, and hard work. Some problems writers can experience when writing a story are: computer problems, losing focus, and difficulties with time. These problems act like tricksters in the process of making a story (293). Something that Vogler mentioned in the reading, and that I really liked, is that words have a strong power, almost like magic. Words posses the power to hurt people, and also to heal them and make them happy. Writers’ healing power of words is their most magical aspect; they are often compared to Shamans who have the potential to heal with their words (294).

In most of the stories we know, there is always somebody that possesses so much knowledge and wisdom that is hard to believe. These people are known as shamans, or “the wounded healers” (294). They gain wisdom and knowledge from previous journeys and experiences, and share them with others as guidelines for right living (295). Just like shamans, writers gain knowledge from experiences throughout their lives, and often share them within a story. I think that every story has a meaning, and that each person finds it according to what they believe. That is one of the powers of stories; you can write something and have your own opinion about it, but others will have a completely opinion about it, even though both read the same text. Every person has its own opinion about a text.

Vogler believes that “stories are metaphors by which people measure and adjust their own lives by comparing them to those of the character” (300). That is totally true, because when I watch a movie, no matter what kind of movie it is, there is always something that I can relate to my personal life. According to Vogler: “stories are somehow alive, conscious, and responsive to human emotions and wishes” (300). Wishing is an important part of every story; when a hero is in a difficult situation he wishes to escape, and we also wish the hero gets out. Sometimes the hero wishes for something he/she really wants instead of something that he/she needs, thus bringing in the issue of needs vs. want (305). As mentioned before, the audience is also involved with the hero’s wishes. In fact, “the aim of good storytelling is to get the audience to make the wish along with the hero” (306). But the audience does not make wishes for the hero only; they also have wishes for the villains. The most common wish that the audience may have is: “I hope it dies.”

These conflicts and hard circumstances in the hero’s journey makes the hero grows personally and spiritually. “Encountering conflicts and obstacles can force characters to evolve to a yet higher level on the pyramid of emotions, that of willing, which is quite a different mental state than mere wishing” (309).

Reaction

This was definitively of the most interesting sections of Vogler’s book. There is a quote mentioned by Vogler that I really liked; “I believe stories are metaphors by which people measure and adjust their own lives by comparing them to those of the characters” (300). I agree with Vogler, because I get some kind of moral from every story. I think you can be able to relate at least a little part of the story with your life. I also agree with Vogler’s idea of the power of words. Words can change your mood, make you happy, make you sad, and manipulate your feeling without even noticing it. I do not know where Vogler got all this from, but he is a genious! I enjoyed reading the part when Vogler mentions that we also have wishes for the hero, and for the villain as well. I laughed when he also mentioned that we have the common wish for the villain to die, which is funny, but also makes me think of how a story can change your feelings so rapidly. It is kind of scary. Although this section took me a while to read, I really enjoyed it and learned a lot from it.

Questions
1. Have you had any personal experience when you wish about something that you wanted, instead of something you really needed?
2. Do you think words have the power Vogler mentioned before? Why or why not?
3. Why do you think words have such a great power that can either hurt us or heal us?

Project 3 Paragraph Analysis (Four Modes)

Bliumis, Alina and Jeff. Language Barrier Project.2008.Patel News Stand, New York. 4 Nov 2008.

The Language Barrier Project is a work of art made by Alina and Jeff Bliumis in Lower Manhattan, New York. It is an installation of bridges made out of colorful foam dictionaries in five places in Manhattan. The site-specific installation engages issues of immigration, assimilation and alienation among the various diasporic communities of lower Manhattan. The audience for this image is people from ages 8 to 50, both male and female, and with any type of education. The main argument of the image is that different immigrant communities struggle with communication, adaptation, and social reorganization, with the purpose of persuading agencies to provide translation for foreign immigrants. The ethos presented in this project is the fact that translation needs to be provided to the immigrants. Pathos are presented when underlining the fragility of communication, the construction of language, and our needs for translation. Finally, the logos are presented when making visible our daily struggles with barriers, not just language ones, but social ones as well.



Spanglish. Dir. James L. Brooks. Perf. Adam Sandler, Téa Leoni. 2004.

The movie Spanglish, is a movie directed by James L. Brooks that talks about the struggles of language in the Hispanic community in the United States. The audience for this movie can be said to be for people from ages 16 to 60, both for males and females. This movie presents the case of a single- parent woman that moved from Mexico to the United States to have a better life, and to provide a better future for her daughter. Even tough this woman has been living the United States for several years and her daughter is bi-lingual, she has just learned a dozen of English words. The purpose of this movie is to let people know that there are many families like the one in this movie that are having a difficult time with the language of English even though parents have lived in the United States for several years and their children are bi-lingual. The ethos in this movie are presented by the fact that you have to value your heritage no matter where you are. Pathos are presented when examining the culture and social classes between impoverished Mexican-Americans and privileged European Americans. Finally, the logos are presented with the fact of foreign immigrant’s struggles with language.



MacDonald, Margaret R. Tell the World: Storytelling Across Language Barriers,United States: Libraries Untltd. Inc, 2007.

Written by Margaret Read McDonald, the book Tell the World: Storytelling Across Language Barriers is a book that reflects issues with the language in storytellers who cannot share stories with other audiences that speak another language other than English. This book is clearly involved with the issue of language barriers. The audience for this book can be people aged from 6 to 30 years, with little or no English language skills, both for make and females. The purpose of this book is to bridge the language gap of storytellers, and providing them with the necessary tools so they can be successful at telling stories to other audiences that speak a different language. The ethos presented in this book is to have respect for other cultures, histories, and languages of others. Pathos are presented when saying that this books is “an indispensable guide for those wanting to share stories with audiences who speak another language.” This quote is clearly opinion-based. Finally, the logos presented in this book is for humans to find ways to connect across language barriers.



Cheech and Chong. "Born and Raised in East L.A." Get out of my Room. USA, 1985.

Performed by Cheech Marin & Tommy Chong, the song Born in East L.A. is a song with a strong relationship with the issue of language barriers. This song is included in the album Get out of my room. The audience for this song can be said to be for people from ages 15 to 50, both for males and females. This song presents the case of a Hispanic who was born in East Los Angeles, but that was treated as a foreign when going to a corner store. The main problem presented in this song is that immigrants are often treated badly, because they often do not know how to speak English and communicate efficiently. The purpose of this song is to let others know that even though some people are born in the United States, but have a Hispanic descent, they are not treated with respect. The ethos of this song are presented by the fact that no matter where you were born, what is your race, and what language do you speak you should treat others with respect and value their heritage. Pathos are presented when the person born in L.A. is treated badly by an individual, and being discriminated. This situation appeals to our emotions, because it enhances the argument that Hispanics are often discriminated even though they were born in the United States. Finally, the logos in this song are presented with the fact that the language barriers, and mostly discrimination still exists in the United States.

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography- Epilogue: Looking Back on the Journey

Vogler, Christopher. “Epilogue: Looking Back on the Journey." The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 231-290.

Summary
Having a pretty good knowledge about the Hero’s journey, it is time to put what we have learned into practice by reading other stories. The stories mentioned in this section of the book are: Titanic, Pulp Fiction, The Lion King, the Full Monty, and Star Wars. Vogler states that a story does not need to have all the features of the Hero’s journey, he also said that in fact it is better if they don’t (232). Vogler encourage us to choose our own metaphor to compare the Hero’s journey. According to Vogler, some people being to plot a movie or novel by writing the stages of the journey on index cards (233). It is okay for any element of the Hero’s journey to appear at any point of the story.

Vogler now began to talk about the stories mentioned before, but including the stages of the journey. It is very interesting how he can point out the stages; Vogler is amazing. When talking about the Titanic, I liked how Vogler explained that the diamond, “The Heart of the Ocean”, is a symbol for the idealized notions of love an honor that the movie reverses (239). Jack’s quote in The Titanic is extraordinary: “Life’s a gift, learn to take it as it comes, make each day count” (243). As Vogler said, the movie makes us think that what happened in the movie can happen to anyone (253). Moving to Lion King, Vogler made a great job mentioning the stages, so clear I was able to understand everything. I did not notice Lion King was based in Hamlet. For the rest of the three stories, I was not able to understand since I have not seen them; that made me feel bad, because I really wanted to follow Vogler’s book. And another think, I did not know that the statue of liberty was given to the people of America by the people of France; that was interesting to know about.

Reaction
It was very entertaining to read this section, and also a great way to study what we have already learned about the Hero’s journey. I had a great time reading the section about the Titanic; I enjoyed the story again by remembering all that happened. Personally, I think Vogler is a genius, because he says things that I just never thought before, and they are so true. Vogler is a hero! Now I watch the same movies I watched when I was a little and I can notice so many things that I never noticed before, that is interesting. I feel like I have a complete different view to analyze stories and movies, I feel Voglarian!

Questions
1.Why do you think the Titanic movie was a success even though it was so expensive to make and also based in a tragedy?
2.Do you agree with Vogler when stating that not all of the stories need to have all features of the Hero’s journey?

Voting Experience

This year presidential elections were intense! I was so happy because it was my first time voting, and I really wanted a change in this country. My voting experience was awesome; I was with my friends in line for an hour chatting and having a good time. Sincerely, I felt like I was an adult by being able to vote. It feels good that after researching for the candidate's proposals and their views, you are able to vote and make make your vote count. The best part was when I got the sticker that said "I voted", I was so happy!!!! Oh, by the way, GO OBAMA!!!!

4 Modes for Project 3

Song: Born in East L.A.- Cheech and Chong

Artwork: Language Barrier Project- Alina and Jeff Bliums

Book: Tell the World: Storytelling Across Language Barriers- Margaret Read MacDonald

Movie: Spanglish- James L. Brooks

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage Eleven: Resurrection & Stage Twelve: Return with the Elixir)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey- Stage Eleven: Resurrection & Stage Twelve: Return with the Elixir.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 197-227.

Summary

The stage of the Resurrection marks the climax of the hero’s journey. This stage should provoke the feeling of catharsis among the audience, which is a purifying emotional release after being part of the hero’s ordeal stage (203). The Resurrection stage often calls for a sacrifice by the hero, such as an old habit or belief (209). This stage is also a good chance for the hero to prove that he has learned something from the Special World, like lessons and new knowledge. It the time for the hero to put these lessons learned in practice (209). After being reborn in the personal way, heroes have changed. The Resurrection stage makes possible for the hero to show this change. Resurrection is like he hero’s final exam, the chance to show what have been learned (212).

Heroes bring back lessons, experiences, and new knowledge to share with others in the stage of Returning with the Elixir. Heroes change their old daily lives and use their knowledge into their new lives. There are two forms to end a Hero’s Journey: the circular form and the open-ended approach (216). The circular form is when the story returns to its starting point, whereas the open-ended approach is when questions remain unanswered (216). One common way to end a story is with a wedding, because it marks the beginning of a new life (218). The Elixir is the hero’s proof of overcoming death. One of the most popular elixirs if love; the hero receives it after a sacrifice (221). Often, stories have an Epilogue right after the end, which project ahead what happened with the characters in their future (223). There are stories that have repetitive endings. Vogler encourage writers to follow the KISS system, which is: Keep It Simple, Stupid (224).

Reaction

The hero’s journey has come to an end, and I am glad I have read this book, because Vogler is a complete expert explaining each stage of the hero’s journey, step by step and in a great way. I can understand everything Vogler says, like for example the catharsis moment. I like how Vogler explains that the hero has more than an adventure to tell, the hero has some new knowledge and lessons to share with others. I hate when stories end with an open-ended approach. It makes me sick not to have all my previous questions answered. In the other hand, I love when movies end up with a wedding, because that lets me know that the hero is happy and ready to start a new life. I also like to read epilogues; it is always interesting to know what happened with each character.

Questions
1. Which way of ending up a story do you like the most, with a circular form, or open-ended?
2. Have you seen any movie or story with multiple endings? Did you like it?
3. How epilogues make a story more complete?

A Good Paragraph; Bell Jar

Esther Greenwood, a college student, has a very strong desire to have sex. She lost her virginity with Dr. Irwin, a math professor. After having sex, Esther realized she was bleeding profusely. Joan, one of Esther's best friends, took her to the hospital to get cheked out. The doctor said it was unusual to lose too much blood after the first sexual intercourse. Days later, Esther received the bad news that her friend, Joan, committed suicide by hanging herself. Esther felt she would not be able to reinstate of what she have been through. Esther called Irwin to tell him to pay her doctor's bill after what happened with her. Esther had to attend the funeral of one of her best friends, Joan. This part of the story can be categorized as the Ordeal. At the end of the story, Esther is waiting to be interviewed by her doctors to see if she can leave the asylum.

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage Nine: Reward & Stage Ten: The Road Back)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey-Reward & The Road Back.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 175-194.

Summary

Right after the hero passed through the Ordeal, it is time for him to claim his reward. The hero has now gained experiences and it is different; he has changed. It is very common for heroes to want to celebrate after they have survived death (176). Sometimes there is an opportunity for the hero to have a love scene; a hero may get married at this point. It is also the time for the hero to get what he/she was looking for. Seizing the Sword is when the hero aggressively takes possession of whatever was being sought in the Special World (178). Heroes expect to be recognized as special and different, because they survived death (179). When heroes survive death they perceive things in a different way. They are more aware of things; they become more intuitive (181). In some cases the hero may experience a sense of greatness, what it is called epiphany. After a moment of supreme Ordeal, they feel like they are divine, like a sacred being (181).

Having what he/she was looking for, the hero is in his Road Back to the Ordinary World, if that was the decision. Some heroes decide to stay in the Special World, but most of the go back home. At this point, heroes can use what they learned in the Special World for their own benefit. The Road Back marks a time when heroes rededicate themselves to the adventure (189). There are cases in which heroes leave the Special World because they are running for their lives. These are called chase scenes (191). Another way for the hero to go back to the Ordinary Word is by the magic flight. Another twist of the Road Back maybe a sudden catastrophic reversal of the hero’s good fortune (192). Sometimes the hero may encounter setbacks that call them into an adventure again. While in the Road Back, heroes may set themselves a new goal to achieve, maybe to escape, or to return home (193). Resurrection is the next step that a hero needs to pass before the end of the journey.

Reaction

I really liked these two past sections, because Vogler explains everything so detailed and clear that it is very easy for me to follow through and understand. In a personal experience, after I graduated from high school I felt that I had to be known as special, because I was successful even though I had a hard time with the language of English. In my case death was not graduating, and I survived it. I decided to stay in the Special World, Florida, because I wanted to test myself again by going to college. I decided to use the experience and knowledge gained in the past to help me with my college journey. As Vogler explains every section, I can relate it to my experience of moving to the United States. It feels wonderful to know that I was a hero at a certain point in my life.

Questions
1. What do you think heroes get from their experiences of facing death?
2. What have you gained from a failing experience, or maybe from a life-threatening experience?
3. In one of your personal experiences, did you decided to stay into the Special World? Why? Why not?

Strengths and weaknesses regarding to my focus development

Strengths:

- Relating the paper to my personal experiences to show the reader insight into my topic
- Trying to show that although high school dropout rates among hispanics are high, there are others that succeed
- Going to interview a teacher that teaches English to ESL students (my teacher from high school)

Weaknesses:

- Bring more ratios about hispanic high school dropout rates
- Instead of looking for "hispanics", it will be better to look for "hispanic immigrants" that know English as their second language
- Look for more facts about those who have succeeded in high school

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage Seven: Approach to the Inmost Cave & Stage Eight: The Ordeal)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey- Stage Seven: Approach to the Inmost Cave & Stage Eight: The Ordeal." The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 143-173.

Summary

The time to wonder around, make allies, and gain enemies is over. Now hero is getting closer and closer to the most dangerous and supreme parts of his journey while approaching the Inmost Cave. Sometimes when the hero is approaching the Inmost Cave, a romance may occur, so the hero can get something good out of the harsh situation. This is the time for the hero to make the last arrangements, get all the information needed, and have his army ready (if it is the case). Obstacles and challenges are part of the journey, so the hero must be ready for them. A hero can't fall asleep on the march; he needs to stay alert at all times (145). The Inmost Cave makes the hero focus in his main goal, but also reminds the " time bomb" to audience (149). When heroes are alone and have nobody to help them achieve their goals, they need to re-organize themselves, and maybe look for help if needed. Heroes get help from mentors, but sometimes there are situations in which mentors cannot go where the hero is going, and the hero must be on his own (150). Mentors guide the heroes and support them, but the hero must do the rest. Now is time for the hero to relax for a while and take a deep breath, because things are going to get serious (151).

Being in the deepest part of the Inmost Cave, the hero is now at the Ordeal stage. In the Ordeal, heroes must die so that they can reborn (155). When heroes die at this stage, they do not just live again and things become happy. A hero changes, gains knowledge, experiences, and becomes a better hero. The Ordeal can lead to a wide variety of situations to happen, it leads to the climax of the story. After a crisis, a hero is reborn in the sense of his character; he gets stronger and wise. When the hero appears to die, or actually dies, there is always a witness watching. This witness gets really sad when the hero "dies", but then is extremely happy when the hero revives (159). The audience wonders if the hero is ever going to get up, if he is still alive. Heroes get a pretty good taste of death. As humans, we like to experience danger, because sometimes it feels good. Vogler explains that people pay good money for a taste of death, and I totally agree with that. For example, people go to Busch Gardens to get into those humongous rides, like Sheikra. People enjoy being there, very high, and going as fast as the wind. Is is very common in a story when a hero comes close to the Ordeal, and the villain is the one that actually dies (164). When heroes get a pretty good taste of death, their ego dies. Tasting dead lets you sit in God's chair for a while (171).

Reation

I really liked these two chapters of Vogler, because although the content was pretty wide and somehow difficult for me to understand, he gave perfect examples that really helped me. These two reading are the most interesting ones that I have read so far from the Vogler's book. The content in these two chapters is very deep, and there were a lot of information that I never heard before. I can relate the chapter about the Inmost Cave with my own experience when moving to the United States. Vogler explains that a hero cannot fall asleep on the march; that it needs to keep going. That is totally true, because it was very hard for me to keep going on and being under pressure with a new language, but if I did not continue I could not achieve my main goal that was graduation. The stage of the Ordeal is one of the most explosives parts of any story. I hate when a hero appears to die, and the audience is biting their nails, and wondering if the hero is going to wake up. Vogler was right when talking about how humans pay good money for a taste of death. I am like that, I go to Busch Gardens and the first thing that I do is to go straight to Sheikra. Yes, I am scared at first, but the feeling of being high up there is amazing.

Disussion Questions

1. Have you had any big obstacles when approaching the Inmost Cave during a personal experience?
2. How do you think dead and rebirth may change a hero? What changes in him?
3. In what movies have you seen this example of dead and rebirth of a hero? What was your reaction?

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage Five: Crossing the First Threshold & Stage Six: Tests, Allies, Enemies)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey- Stage Five: Crossing the First Threshold & Stage Six: Tests, Allies, Enemies.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 127-141.

Summary

After meeting with the Mentor and deciding to go into the special world, the hero needs to cross the First Threshold. This may happen as a result of a villain killing, harming, threatening, or kidnapping someone close to the hero (128). Vogler also explains that hero's internal events may trigger him to cross the Threshold; "Do I go on living my life as I always have, or will I risk everything in the effort to grow and change?" (128). When a hero approaches the Threshold he is likely to face someone that is blocking his way, the Threshold Guardian. It is the hero's job to deal with the Threshold Guardian and pass through. A hero is at the border of two worlds when it is actually crossing the Threshold (129). A hero must have a lot of courage to take that big step and start crossing the Threshold, that special courage is called making the leap of faith (130). However, a hero's landing is not always as good as they expect; their arrival to the special world may be exhausting, frustrating, or disorienting (130).

There is a big difference between the Ordinary World and the Special World. Within the Special World, a hero experiences a series of tests. Now is the time for the hero to have company during his journey. Within the Special World a hero makes Allies and Enemies. This process is also a kind of test, because it examines the hero's good judge of character (137). One common type of Ally is a sidekick, an Ally who generally goes with the hero wherever he goes, and supports him in all his adventures (137). A hero does not necessarily have just one Ally; it can also form a team with special skills that may help the hero to be successful in his journey. Although rivals are annoying, they are the ones that keep the story rolling. Enemies are a big part of a hero's journey, and they can also become the Shadow, the Trickster, and even the Herald (138). One interesting thing that Vogler mentioned was the fact that heroes often pass through bars and saloons when they first go into the Special World. Why is that? Bars are natural places to get better after the harsh landing into the Special World, pick up some gossip, chat with new people, and confront enemies (139).

Reaction

Now the story is actually beginning. This is one of the best parts of the movie, when the hero starts going into his journey. I really liked how Vogler stated that internal events within a hero could also influence him to cross the First Threshold. It is also very true that that a hero's landing may be harsh for him, because I can relate that to my own personal experience when I first moved to the United States, and I felt very disoriented in a completely new place. I think one of the hardest parts of a story is when a hero is trying to find someone to be his companion during his journey. I totally agree with Vogler when he says that the process of making Allies is a type of test; a hero has to be very smart to consider someone his Ally. I had never pay attention to the fact that heroes go to bars after they landed to the Special World. In the movie Snow Dogs, the main character to the movie goes to a type of bar when he arrived into Alaska. In there, he started meeting new people, and almost half of them ended being his Allies. In general, I really enjoy how Vogler explains every single detail of all he says in his book. All the information given help us to better understand stories, and also to evaluate and analyze stories that we have seen before.

Discussion Questions

1. During a personal journey, what made you cross the First Threshold in one of your experiences or journeys?
2. In your own life, have any of your landings into the Special World was difficult, and you felt disoriented at a certain point?
3. What qualities or characteristics do you think a hero must look for when looking for an Ally?

Kafka's Quiz

1. Gregor Samsa wakes up from an anxious dream, and finds out he has been transformed into a horrible bug. His Ordinary World goes away when he becomes aware of what have happened to him. His Ordinary World was based in living with his family (his father, mother, and sisters), and working very hard as a traveling salesman to get his parents out of debt. Gregor's Call to Adventure occurred when he had to stand up from his bed and go to work as a traveling salesman, but also to face others with his new transformation. He was terrified by the horrible creature he just turn into. He did wanted to take the train and go to work, but it was his radical transformation what was holding him from going to work.

2. A social issue being critiqued in the story is the fact that people sometimes go crazy with their jobs. People become addicted to the jobs, and they do not even pay attention to their own personal problems. In the story, Gregor is more concerned about going to work than what have just happened to him. This shows that they have changed their priorities in life. I personally think that is really bad, because it is okay to be responsible and go to work and be on time, but becoming obsessed with your job and putting yourself in the last number of your priority list, that is not good. This story relates to the "Red Scare" because the people were scared of Communists, and there was not actual threat or danger. Gregor's parents, and his boss are scared of him and think he is a threat to the society. Wasn't Gregor also scared? That situation must be hard for him.

3. Gregor turned into a bug.

Revising and Editing

3 elements to revise:

*unpack information
*use of FANBOYS
*some grammar errors

3 elements to edit:

* use transitions to make the reader part of the journey
* make sure to guide the reader
* Be careful with the "it", "its", etc..

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage Three: Refusal of the Call & Stage Four: Meeting with the Mentor)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey-Stage Three: Refusal of the Call & Stage Four: Meeting with the Mentor.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 107-126.

Summary

We have already talked about the Hero, his Ordinary World, and his Call to Adventure. Now it is time for the Hero to jump into a new world full of experiences and adventures he have never faced before. This decision to actually go and face a new world may be very hard for the Hero. The Refusal of the Call is when a Hero refuses to go into the Special World. At some point we are also refusing to jump into a new adventure, like college for example, because we are afraid that things are going to get hard or that we are still not ready for such a big change. According to Vogler, they refuse the call by listing a “laundry list” of weak excuses (108). However, sometimes it is smart to refuse some Calls that may not benefit us. There is also the case of some heroes that will accept the Call without thinking twice. Willing heroes do not hesitate or have any fears about new adventures (110).

When a Hero is uncertain about whether accepting, or refusing the call, they need advice and support from a wise person. A Mentor is the person in charge for protecting, guiding, teaching, testing, training, and providing magical gifts to the Hero (117). By meeting with the Mentor the Hero gains confidence, and has a better chance of accepting the Call to go into the Special World. It seems like the relationship between the Hero and the Mentor is very solid. However, when the Hero is ungrateful with the Mentor, then the Mentor-hero relationship can take a drastic turn (121). Mentors are not just people that were born with all the knowledge and experiences that they have. The can be regarded as heroes who have become experienced enough to teach others (122).

Reaction

I like how Vogler explains to us how the Hero may react after the Call to Adventure. I can put myself into the hero’s shoes, because when I received the Call that I was going to move to the United States I was very worried, and also scared things we going to go wrong. It is not easy to be in that situation where you have to think very smart about what are you going to do. I loved when Vogler’s said that the Hero lists a “laundry list” of weak excuses. That is very true, and I can relate to that because sometimes we do not want to do something new just because we are afraid of it since we have never experienced before. Mentors exist everywhere; they are here at Eckerd College, and I have one. When I think about a Mentor I visualize my mother, because she helps me with all my concerns, and helps me to make wise decisions in my life. I also liked a lot when Vogler stated that Mentors can be regarded as heroes who have become experienced enough to teach others. Mentors had also rough times while in their journey, and probably got help from other mentors. Those rough times made them gain new experiences and learn new things, so that they could be able to help others using the knowledge previously gained.

Questions:

1. What do you think is the main excuse that heroes have to refuse the Call?
2. Have you had any situation in your life where you refused a Call because it was not good at all, or it was for some other purpose?
3. Do you think mentors are important in our life? Why?

Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

-----Ethos-----


visual:



song: Right now- John Cena

-----Pathos-----

visual:



song: One Wish- Ray J

-----Logos-----

visual:



song: Handle bars- Flobots

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Stage One: The Ordinary World & Stage Two: The Call to Adventure)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey-Stage One: The Ordinary World & Stage Two: The Call to Adventure.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 83-105.

Summary

The ordinary world is the “world of common day”. It stories, the ordinary world is presented at the beginning, and it presents us the background of the main character. One thing that can make the audience interested about the movie, or story, is to select a good title that can strike a metaphor to make the audience curious about the movie, thus convincing them to be part of the experience (84). A prologue if often used in many stories. It gives us a sort of background; a cue to the audience to what kind of story is going to be about (86). The Ordinary world has a very important question, suggest the dramatic question of the story (88). When you start watching a movie, the first time you see the main character (the hero) is unforgettable. You pay attention to everything; what is he wearing, his attitude, if he/she is within a group, etc. Now, most important is what is the character doing at the moment of entrance (89).

One thing that most of the fairy tales share in common is that the hero lacks something, or is missing something. The most common case is the loss of family members (91). We all know that heroes often feel like they are on top of everything, that they are the best. Heroes often posses a flaw called hubris, a kind of pride or arrogance (92). Stories are supposed to establish what’s as stake. If they fail to do so, the audience will be left with the question: “So what?” (94). I think one of the main interesting parts of a story is the Call to Adventure. At this time the audience is focused in the story at the maximum level. It may be true that the fact that the hero is going somewhere else fills us with fears and doubts, but it also makes us curious about what may happen, and what are the consequences going to be (99). The Call to Adventure is what makes the story go on. It may be disorienting and distasteful to the hero, but it is necessary for him to grow (102).

Reaction

In this part of the book, Vogler explains to us what the Ordinary World consists of, and what is the role of it. I totally agree with Vogler when he says that it is the background of a hero, because the hero’s ordinary world let us know how the hero is like. It is like a reflection of the morals and values of a hero. I also agree with the fact that Vogler stated that we pay close attention to the hero when making the first entrance. Personally, I look as much as I can, because I think that will help me to get a better understanding of the personality of the hero. And when heroes think they are the best… I totally hate that. That pride or arrogance (hubris) makes me punch them in the face. When the hero is called for an adventure I pay close attention to the reactions, because I just enjoy watching the facial expressions of acceptance, or refusal. It is also true that the Call of Adventure fills me with questions like: “Is he/she going to be able to survive?” and other ones too.

Questions:

1. Why do you think the Ordinary World and the Special World are so different in a story? What does that tell us?
2. How a hero’s “hubris” can go back to normality? Why do they have that flaw?
3. When stories leave you with the question: “So what?” what do you think was missing?

Peer Review Draft with Reflection

1. The best idea that I got from my peer was?

* The best idea that I got from my peer was to include a time within the story when I became really frustrated about my transition. That was an excellent idea! I think that will make my story even better, and also more interesting.

2. The idea that I don't agree with it?

* I totally agreed with everything my peer said.

3. My draft needs?

* My draft needs grammar and punctuation corrections, and also to include one pitfall that I had while in school.

Vogler's Annotated Bibliography (Threshold Guardian, Herald, Shapeshifter, Shadow, Ally, and the Trickster)

Vogler, Christopher. “Book One: Mapping the Journey-Threshold Guardian, Herald, Shapeshifter, Shadow, Ally, and the Trickster.” The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers. 3rd Edition. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 2007. 49-80.

Summary

Every story is composed of many archetypes that serve a specific function. The archetypes discussed in this annotated bibliography are: the Threshold Guardian, the Herald, the Shapeshifter, the Shadow, the Ally, and the Trickster. The primary function of the threshold guardian is to test the hero. They are early indicators that new power and success is coming (51). Threshold Guardians can be from bodyguards to entrance examiners, whose other function is to temporarily block the way of the hero (52). The call of adventure is one of the main important parts of every story. The archetype in charge of doing this is the Herald (56). The Herald alerts both the hero and the audience that change and adventure are coming (56). It may be a hero’s loved one or ally, or someone neutral to the hero, such as a Trickster or Threshold Guardian (57). It is very common for the hero to have a special love interest or romantic partner that will manifest the qualities of a Shapeshifter (59). Traditional Shapeshifters are witches, ogres, and wizards. They serve the dramatic function of bringing doubt and suspense into a story (61).

The Shadow is an archetype that represents the energy of the dark side, the unexpressed, unrealized, rejected aspects of something, or maybe the power of repressed feelings (65). It challenges the hero and gives him a worthy opponent in the struggle (66). It may also be a force external to the hero, or a deeply repressed part of the hero (68). As many people know, a hero needs some companionship during the journey. An Ally has the function of being a companion, sparring partner, and conscience. It humanizes the hero, and also challenges him to be more open and balanced (71). Allies do not have to be humans; they can be angels or animals (73). The Trickster archetype embodies the energies of mischief and desire for change. They cut big egos down to size and bring heroes and audience to the earth (77). The dramatic function of the Trickster is comic relief (78). In Batman’s movie, Dark Knight, the Joker is an example of a Trickster, because it makes the audience laugh and have a good time while experiencing a suspense scene.

Reaction

I really like this book, and the way Vogler describes every archetype, including their functions, types, and also giving some examples so that you can understand even better. One thing that captured my attention is the fact that characters can switch their archetypes, and become other archetypes in the story. Like I said before, archetypes are like masks worn by the characters. The archetype that I like the most is the hero, of course, but also the Trickster. In Batman’s movie the Joker was one of the most important characters from the beginning to the end. Although it was also Batman’s opponent, he was just hilarious. The Joker’s occurrences in the movie made the audience feel better when the suspension and tragic scenes where taking place. As the book says, it was a comic relief.

Questions:

1. Which of the archetypes discussed in Book One do you like the most? Why?
2. How does these archetypes relate to each other? Describe some ways.

Disney character

Well, the assignment that I had to do for my Analytic and Persuasive class was to choose a Disney, or fairy tale character that relates to me in some way. At first, I had no idea of what character should I choose; there are so many!!! After looking for hours I finally chose one, Sally Carrera. Who? Yeah, Sally Carrera you guys. Have you seen the movie Cars? If you answer is yes, then you know who is Sally Carrera. Oh, come on! Do not look at the picture okay? Do not cheat! You do not know who is Sally? Ok, here it goes.

From the movie, Cars, Sally is a 911 Porsche Carrera. The cute, blue, little Porsche in the movie. Now you know, right? The reason because I chose Sally Carrera is because I am totally obsessed with Porsches, specially with the 911 Carrera, and even more when they are customized with rims, music equipment, etc. I totally understand folks, a girl obsessed with cars, with Porsches? Weird, huh? Yes, but it is as simple as that. If you do not believe me, check out my myspace, I will prove it. My dad and step dad are both mechanics, so I have a pretty good knowledge about cars (not an expert), and a big passion for exotic and sport ones. Since sixth grade I like Porsches; they drive me insane. It is the best car ever. When I see a 911 Carrera at the highway I just go crazy. I feel a sense of power and velocity as I see them pass by. I am totally in love with that car.

On the movie, Sally Carrera can be described as a sweet and eloquent person. She also has a great personality. I consider myself as a sweet person, although some people may not think that. They just need to know me better... There is no doubt that I have a good personality; all my friends and family members say that. I love to laugh and have a nice sense of humor, I also like doing funny faces. Sally Carrera is kind of funny too, so we are somehow similar. Another thing that Sally and I have in common is her cleanliness; she is always shiny and good-looking. I also love to be very clean and to look good everyday. Wow! I never thought that I could relate to a Disney character!

I can be hours talking about Porsches, but I am in college, which means a lot of things to do. However, it was very cool to do this assignment; I wish all of them would be like this one. Well guys, this is it. I hope everybody had fun reading this blog, I did! Thanks for taking the time to read it. See you later!