Critical Response to Paulette Regans An Unsettling...

In â€Å"Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling, and Reconciliation in Canada,† Paulette Regan writes about An Unsettling Pedagogy of History and Hope to which I have chosen to respond critically. I have selected Regan’s work because she presents a multitude of ideas from various educators, scholars and activists about decolonization, but also this intriguing issue of finding critical hope. I was engaged with the reading as I jotted down annotations while beginning to form more of an understanding for what started out in this course as not much more than something represented by the keyword â€Å"assimilation.† For the purposes of this paper I will summarize and address what I feel is important from the reading to†¦show more content†¦Frideres and Rene R. Gadacz. â€Å"Whiteness† is described as being a new form of racism that is covert and structural. This idea is particularly of interest to me as all other p eople other than whites are considered â€Å"raced,† which would include me as I am from Asian descent. Whites are not racially seen or named and therefore function as the â€Å"human norm† (Frideres and Gadacz 9). Even now, Caucasians are often unaware of their own â€Å"white privilege† and the whiteness remains invisible to them. This poses an overarching dilemma of stratifying whites and non-whites which is due to the structural arrangements already embedded in our society today. The tricky matter here is that while white privilege operates as an invisible force, Aboriginal peoples and other minorities that do not fit the norm are rarely represented in media and more importantly, the educational curriculum. What can be done when white privilege has been ingrained into society as the norm? How do we start from scratch and restructure whole relationships and change perspectives? In order to reorganize societal dynamics and overcome this perpetuating cycle of colonialism, we may have to form new identities and – as dismal as this sounds – just does not seem possible. But all is not lost. There is that lasting critical hope that still exists if we can approach it in the right way so that it is nurtured and grows. Instead of repeated apologies and â€Å"first†

The Tragic Hero Of Sophocles Oedipus Rex - 972 Words

In antiquated Greek drama, tragedy plays had a way of appealing to the audience effortlessly. Greek tragedies are still performed and read across the world in modern-day. Oedipus Rex, a standout amongst the popular tragedies, is written by Sophocles. Within every tragedy play, one character takes the role of a grievous or tragic hero. As stated by Aristotle, certain attributes characterize a deplorable legend or a tragic hero. In Oedipus Rex, the fundamental character, Oedipus, carries imperfections as well as inevitable fate much like a tragic hero. A few of the qualities of a tragic hero consists of nobility and carrying flaws that lead to unavoidable, foreordained fate. Born in Thebes and of loyalty, Oedipus was left at the side of a mountain with pierced ankles to die because of a prophecy told to King Laios of Thebes. On the contrary, Oedipus was given to King Polybus and Queen Merope as a young child, for they could not bear children. Oedipus believes that the parents that he g rew up with are his biological parents. When â€Å"a drunken man maundering in his cups† tells Oedipus that he does not carry the DNA of King Polybus, he begins to inquire if he is adopted (Oed.1.2.252). After the confrontation, his parents tell Oedipus that the comment is a â€Å"slanderous rant of a fool† and to forget the rumor (Oed.1.2.257). Although the intention of the statement was to put the questioning at ease, Oedipus was still unsure about what the drunken man had said. Therefore, OedipusShow MoreRelatedAnalysis of Oedipus As an Aristotelian Tragic Hero in Sophocles Oedipus Rex1799 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿Oedipus as an Aristotelian tragic hero Although one might be inclined to express uncertainty concerning the role of Sophocles Oedipus as a tragic hero (when regarding matters from a general point of view), the character perfectly fits Aristotles definition of a tragic hero. The protagonist in Oedipus Rex is noble and can be appreciated for his greatness, considering that he embodies a series of virtuous attributes. Even with this, he is not perfect and thus makes it possible for readers toRead MoreSophocles Oedipus Rex: The Epic and Tragic Hero in Myth and Culture2021 Words   |  8 PagesOutline- Background to story and structure Thesis the hero as both epic and tragic Oedipus Rex Theme and Plot The Epic and Tragic Hero in Myth and Culture How myth is ingrained, purpose Oedipus as a tragic Hero Formation of myth and commonalities with the everyman Aristotelian definition of hero Conclusions How Aristotles definition fits Oedipus Background- Within the rubric of the human experience we can find a number of commonalities that relate to psychology, culture, and the mannerRead MoreGreek Mythology And Mythology Of The Iliad, Oedipus Rex And Others1294 Words   |  6 Pagesthey used often in their works; examples of this are seen in the Iliad, Oedipus Rex and others. The existence of Greek mythology and narratives plays a significant role in shaping the arts, most notably dance and performance. It also prompted the Aristotle Poetics that discussed the value of six specific traits in every tragedy. It has even encouraged the usage in other fields of study, the most notably the existence of the Oedipus complex. The inclusion of different narratives, and symbolisms helpRead MoreOedipus Rex, Sophocles1252 Words   |  6 PagesOedipus the ideal Tragic Hero Kelli Richards Liberty University Abstract In the play Oedipus Rex, Sophocles portrays Oedipus who is also the main character, as a good- natured, beautiful, noble yet narcissistic person who has a lapse of judgment and fall from power. Throughout the play Oedipus makes a few profound decisions for which he is condemned to plentiful suffering;Read MoreOedipus Rex Vs. Antigone1417 Words   |  6 PagesComparative Essay 11-20-01 Oedipus Rex Antigone It is only natural that an author use similar vessels of literature, such as figurative language, literary devices, and elements in his/her work. It is even more apparent between works that are connected by character, time, and theme. Sophocles did this when he wrote Oedipus Rex and Antigone. When comparing the two pieces, it becomes evident that very similar vessels connected these very different plays. Sophocles uses a specific type of figurativeRead More tragoed The Tragic Figure of Oedipus the King (Oedipus Rex)923 Words   |  4 PagesThe Tragic Figure of Oedipus Rex  Ã‚     Ã‚   Sophocles is perhaps one of the greatest tragedians ever. Sophocles said that a man should never consider himself fortunate unless he can look back on his life and remember that life without pain. For Oedipus Rex, looking back is impossible to do without pain. This pain stems from his prideful life. Oedipus is aware that he alone is responsible for his actions. Oedipus freely chooses to pursue and accept his own lifes destruction. Even though fate victimizesRead MoreDeconstructing Tragedy And The Definition Of The Protagonist’S1173 Words   |  5 PagesDefinition of the Protagonist’s Innocence In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, Oedipus meets the Aristotelian definition of a tragic hero as divine fate and tragic flaws lead to his downfall. Oedipus’s tragic flaws like hubris, curiosity, and anger, contribute to his unfortunate fate. The components of a perfect tragedy as defined in Aristotle’s Poetics are at the center of Oedipus Rex. The play contains the elements of a perfect tragedy such as â€Å"imitation †¦ purificationRead More tragoed Oedipus the King (Oedipus Rex) as Ideal Tragic Hero1245 Words   |  5 PagesOedipus Rex as the Ideal Tragic Hero If we give ourselves up to a full sympathy with the hero, there is no question that the Oedipus Rex fulfills the function of a tragedy, and arouses fear and pity in the highest degree. But the modern reader, coming to the classic drama not entirely for the purpose of enjoyment, will not always surrender himself to the emotional effect. He is apt to worry about Greek fatalism and the justice of the downfall of Oedipus, and, finding no satisfactory solutionRead MoreThe Flaws Of Arrogance In Oedipus Rex By Sophocles796 Words   |  4 Pagesonce said, â€Å"None are so empty as those who are full of themselves.† The words ring true through the character Oedipus whose tragic flaw of arrogance brought his downfall. In his timeless play, Oedipus Rex, author Sophocles unflinchingly illuminates the haughtiness and hubris displayed by the hero Oedipus. Through his candid exploration of the ship/captain and light/dark motifs, Sophocles makes an effort to ultimately bring the reader to t he realization that arrogance creates an illusion to the truthRead MoreThe Tragic Hero of Oedipus Rex Essay1383 Words   |  6 PagesThe Tragic Hero of Oedipus Rex According to the ancient Greeks and Aristotle the hero is a person who possesses superior qualities of mind and body, and who proves his superiority by doing great deeds of valor, strength, or intellect. In Sophocles Oedipus Rex the main character Oedipus possesses these characteristics of a true hero, which in turn lead to his self-destruction. In the beginning of the play Oedipuss great intellect is made known by the chorus who see him as someone who has

Questions On International Human Resource Management Essay

To, Date: 16/07/2015 Dr. Robert Khan From, Patel Nimisha Subject: Submission of case study Please find completed case study on International Human Resource Management-Padi Cepat on the basis for your reading and action. Sign: Name: Patel Nimisha Paper Title International Human Resource Management Paper Code 95.892(B) Term 1 2015 Lecturers : Dr. Robert Khan Assignment Title IHRM-Padi Cepat Due: 16/07/2015 Student Name: Patel Nimisha Student ID: S2145218 TABLE OF CONTENT COMPANY INTRODUCTION†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦4 IHRM CHALLENGES OF PADI CEPAT†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦5 1.1.1 Recruitment and staffing issues†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...5 1.1.2 Meeting the cultural values and considerations of the host country†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦6 COMPONENTS AND PURPOSE OF HUMAN RESOURCE PLAN†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.........6 PROS AND CONS OF HUMAN RESOURCE PLAN†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..7 ETHNOCENTRIC OR POLICENTRIC APPROACH†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...7 IHRM PRACTICE FOR PADI CEPAT†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..8 CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND WORKFORCE DIVERSITY†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.8 LABOUR RALATIONS†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...9 CONCLUSION†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...10 REFERNCES†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..11Show MoreRelatedTable Of ContentsPrefacexiiiPART ONEThe Strategic Human1743 Words   |  7 PagesTable of Contents Preface xiii PART ONE The Strategic Human Resource Management Model 2 Chapter 1 Strategic Importance of Human Resource Management Chapter Objectives Challenges Facing Canadian Organizations Spotlight on Ethics: What Is a â€Å"Right† Behaviour? Objectives of Human Resource Management Strategic Human Resource Management The Organization of Human Resource Management The Human Resource Management Profession of the Future The Framework Used in This Book Spotlight on HRM: Will the 21stRead Morethe biggest challenges and biggest opportunities facing new managers entering industry883 Words   |  4 Pages‘Leadership Management in the UK - The Key to Sustainable Growth’ [online] available from [05 November 2013] Source type This paper has been written by the Department for Business, Innovation Skills Leadership and Management Network Group (LMNG). Key contributors include Petra Wilton and Patrick Woodman of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), Katerina Rudiger of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), David Pardey of the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), PennyRead MoreExamples of Ihrm and Domestic Hrm Essay841 Words   |  4 Pagesmultinational ventures stem from a lack of understanding of the essential differences in managing human resources in foreign environments (Desatnick Bennett 1978). The world has become more globalized, competitive, dynamic and uncertain than ever before. As more and more firms operate internationally, the search for the elements of global competitive advantage is a prominent theme in the management literature (Dickman Mà ¼ller-Camen, 2006: 580). There is a clear need to develop an understandingRead MoreMultinational Corporations Based On International Business Essay1730 Words   |  7 Pagesglobal strategies. As these issues of differentiation and integration are often facilitated by HRM activities, they represent a critical component in the IHRM. An example of this dual focus is found in most multinational corporations based on international business, which tend to assign primary responsibility to their subsidiaries for local compensation and benefits, training and labour relations, with regional units assuming secondary responsibility (Reynolds 1992). Productive globalization occurredRead MoreIntroduction. The Organization To Discuss In This Paper1107 Words   |  5 Pagesstrategy which can aid in expansion is for the organization to form partnerships with companies in various countries to increase its capacity and diversify its portfolio of the products. For Micron to grow further and to suc cessfully penetrate the international market, the organization has to continue to be innovative and further its technological advances. This remains to be a key strategy for the organization’s growth and improvement (Kumar, 2014). Countries for the Expansion Micron wants to includeRead MoreO How Human Resource Management Has Developed in the Past Few Years to Become an Integral Part of Our Organizations?854 Words   |  4 PagesEssay Question: How Human Resource Management has developed in the past few years to become an integral part of our organizations? Major Field of Study: Human Resource Management. Human Resource Management has developed in the past few years to become an integral part of our organization. According to Armstrong, Michael (2006), â€Å"The terms Human Resource Management (HRM) and human resources (HR) have largely replaced the term personnel management (PM) as a descriptionRead MoreHuman Resource Management On A Global Scale1302 Words   |  6 Pagesto discuss and explain the value of Human Resource Management on a global scale. Human Resources Management is a valuable asset to many organizations around the world. There are several factors that come into play when considering the functions of business on a worldwide scale. Some aspects of Human Resource Management include training, management development, performance appraisal, and compensation. The focus level in individual areas of Human Resource Management may differ between countries, andRead MoreHow Repatriation Can Be Just As Overwhelming As Beginning One s International Assignment931 Words   |  4 PagesRepatriation can be just as overwhelming as beginning one’s international assignment. There are multiple factors involved in the process, all of which are necessary for a smooth transition. Although ISCAM is experienced in international business, they have to reevaluate their practices in order to improve their results. They have deficiencies in their repatriation process that must improve or they may lose the opportunity of international business. If too many employees learn of the struggle, eventuallyRead MoreInternational Human Resource Management: More than Just Expatriate Management1246 Words   |  5 PagesReport Question: IHRM reflects the interest of HR managers who may seek to promote their own interests rather than the needs of organisations. Nowadays, many people might think that International Human Resource Management (IHRM) is synonymous with expatriate management. However, IHRM covers more than just the management of expatriates. According to Laurent (1986, pp. 91-93), IHRM is a set of activities aimed managing organisational human resources at international level to achieve organisationalRead MoreStrategic Human Resource Management1738 Words   |  7 PagesSTRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Strategic human resource management is the process of linking the human resource function with the strategic objectives of the organization in order to improve performance. Strategic management The word ‘strategy’, deriving from the Greek noun strategus, meaning ‘commander in chief’, was first used in the English language in 1656. The development and usage of the word suggests that it is composed of stratos (army) and agein (to lead). In a management context

Cell Phones Essay Example For Students

Cell Phones Essay Do you have a cell phone? Well, to the many who do, it is a way of communication in a car. Cell phones have been known to distract the driver from concentrating on the road. But is it really worth banning?A majority of the nation agrees to ban cell phones in the use by the driver. Our nation is based on a democracy and if the people want cell phones banned, it should be outlawed. The majority of the nation agrees that cell phones are a distraction on the road. I, as a driver, too, think that cell phone use while driving is a distraction. Even though I personally dont own a phone, I have used one. I noticed that talking on the cellular phone and driving doesnt make it hard to focus on the road. But it is difficult and a major distraction to dial-up a number without losing focus on the road. Dialing a number is the main distraction about cell phones and driving. My friend has been in close call accidents where he was dialing up a number and wasnt paying attention to the road and almost went onto a head on collision. After that we both agreed that is why cell phones should be banned. A cell phones purpose in the car should be for emergency such as an accident or used by a passenger. People smoking while driving should also be banned too. Again there isnt a distraction while smoking, I believe, but there is when you want to light it up. For a moment you have to concentrate on lighting it up and not the road and in that moment you could collide with an oncoming car. How about CB radios used by the police or truck drivers. I dont think that they should be banned considering they are used for emergency and not for personal joy like how most people use the cell phone. Truckers and police officers hardly ever get into accidents because of distraction of CB radios unlike the use of cell phones by civilians. Also, if having dogs stick their heads out the window is a distraction, then roll up the window. There are many distractions while driving but some of them are easy to fix or just left to the selected few. Cell phone use by the driver should be banned. It is distracting to dial-up the number while driving, which may cause accidents. There are other distractions that should also be banned like smoking cigarettes but will it happen? Banning cell phones from the driver will reduce accidents. The majority of the nation will also agree it upon.

The Atlanta Exposition Address Essay Example For Students

The Atlanta Exposition Address Essay The Atlanta Exposition Address is the fortieth chapter of Booker T. Washingtons autobiography. This autobiography was called Up From Slavery and it was written in 1901. The chapter begins by telling the reader that Booker T. Washington, the author, was in the Atlanta Exposition representing the Negro enterprise and Negro civilization. He then describes how he gave a brief speech to the white and black community, and then continues by writing about some personal experiences and his point of view on some particular issues. Some of these experiences and issues include the outcome of his speech, how he meets and thinks about the President of the United States, the invitation to be a judge in an educational contest, the Negro ministry, and voting. We will write a custom essay on The Atlanta Exposition Address specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now In this chapter, Booker T. Washingtons main theme is how two different races can live together in order to achieve progress. In his persuasive speech, he tries to convince black and white people that they should give their best for the prosperity of the South. He also tries to persuade people to make friends, no matter what their skin color or place of birth is. He emphasizes that if two different races can get to the point where they can trust each other, then they will be surrounded by the most patient, faithful, law-abiding, and unresentful people that the world has ever seen. The fact that Up From Slavery is an autobiography clearly indicates that the books point of view is in first person. The reader can make sure of this by noticing that Booker T. Washington, the author, is the one who tells the reader what is going on, what he thinks about life, what his feelings are, and what he thinks about other people. In this chapter the reader can encounter some insights that will evoke feelings. In other words, a great deal of emotion is involved. An example of these insights would be when Booker T. Washington, the next day of the Atlanta Exposition, was surprised to find himself pointed out and surrounded by a crowd of men who whished to shake his hand. In order for the reader to feel something, he needs to understand that the author was black, and in that time, black people used to be slaves. The reader needs to know the author had never felt something like that in his life. By being black, nobody cared about him before until that moment. I think that in this chapter there are some very interesting and brilliant ideas. I actually thought that black people were illiterate, but now I know Im wrong. I thought that they were illiterate because, just as the author described the Negro ministry, a race with a few years out of slavery had no time or opportunity to educate themselves. I really think that Booker T. Washington was an honest, sincere, and extremely smart person. In order to think about life they way he did, that requires wisdom and not everyone has it. Bibliography:

Economic Stability

Economic Stability The article "The Selfishness of the Unselfish"  offers a concise observation from the liberal economists' perspective that those individuals and groups who lobby and advocate for policies and government regulation of run-away capitalism in the name of unselfishness are actually just as, if not more, "greedy"  and "selfish"  than the policies and institutions they claim to be fighting. The author, Boudreaux, describes a brief encounter he had with a woman, several years ago, who was actively involved in the city of Atlanta's historical-preservation movement and who vocally rebuked "greedy developers"  for destroying or renovating older homes and destroying these homes' "historical integrity."  The problem with this woman's argument, the author claims, is that, while she believes herself to be selfless, with the interest of preserving history and its dignity, she is actually being greedy by forcing her beliefs and opinions upon other people in the city, who may not be ab le to afford living in renovated, "historically accurate"  housing.Berry College logoThe author then goes on to describe a few instances where groups of individuals who claim to be watching over the good of society are actually advocating policies that benefit only some people at the expense of others. For example, environmentalists often vocally and passionately oppose what the author refers to as "capitalist greed."  However, while the environmental policies might benefit the environmentalists, they do so at the expense of other consumers who might benefit from the greater supply of goods and services that would be available if there weren't any of these output-reducing policies. At the end of the article, the author warns against those who protest for greater government involvement in the economy who are unable to support their protests and demands with sound, logical, well-researched evidence and reason. Most of those people who are quickest to rile and...

Accent Marks and Indirect Questions in Spanish

Accent Marks and Indirect Questions in Spanish For beginning Spanish students, the rule theyre taught about orthographic accents may seem straightforward: Words such as quà © (what) and cuntos (how many) have accents on them when theyre used in questions but dont otherwise. But the use of such accents marks in reality is a bit more complicated, as the accent mark is retained in some types of statements. For example, heres one sentence you might see: El Banco Central no aclarà ³ cuntos dà ³lares vendià ³. (The Central Bank did not make clear how many dollars it sold.) Accents in Indirect Questions It is true that various words have orthographic accents- accent marks that affect the meanings of words but not the pronunciation- when they are parts of questions. The twist to the rule that questions can be part of statement, a statement that ends in a period, rather than as part of a question, a sentence that begins and ends in question marks. Such questions are known as indirect questions. For example, the sample sentence above indirectly asks the question of how many dollars were sold, but it doesnt do so directly. Some indirect questions are obvious, as in this sentence: Quisiera saber dà ³nde puedo encontrar algà ºn programa para convertir archivos de MP3. (I would like to know where I can find a program for converting MP3 files.) Often, sentences that begin in phrases such as quiero saber (I want to know) or no saber (I dont know) are indirect questions. But sometimes the indirect questions are more subtle. Here are some more examples of indirect questions that use orthographic accents: No sà © dà ³nde est. (I dont know where he is.)Saben quà © va a pasar. (They know what is going to happen.)Ella me dijo por quà © se cambià ³ su nombre. (She told me why she changed her name.)Es difà ­cil decir exactamente cuntos cadveres habà ­a. (Its difficult to say exactly how many corpses there were.)La comisià ³n va a investigar quià ©n es el responsable. (The commission will investigate who is the one responsible.) Words That Change Form in Questions These are the words that require the orthographic accent in questions, whether they are direct or indirect: adà ³nde (where to, where)cà ³mo (how)cul (which, what)cundo (when)cunto, cuntos (how much, how many)dà ³nde (where)para quà © (what for, why)por quà © (why)quà © (what, which)quià ©n (who) These are all known as interrogative words and include pronouns, adjectives, and adverbs. Sometimes, especially with quà ©, the accent is needed to clarify the meaning of the word that is being used, and the meaning changes without the accent. Note the difference between these two sentences: Sà © que va a comer. (I know that he is going to eat. Que here functions as a relative pronoun.)Sà © quà © va a comer. (I know what he is going to eat. Quà © here is an interrogative pronoun.) Similarly, when cà ³mo is functioning as a question word, it usually is translated as how. But in statements that arent indirect questions, it is translated as as or like. This is one way you can tell whether cà ³mo is being used in an indirect question. Quiero saber cà ³mo se hace. (I want to know how it is done.)Los nià ±os llegaron como una tormenta. (The children arrived like a storm.) Example Sentences Here are each of the interrogative words used as an indirect question: No sabemos adà ³nde vamos. (We dont know where were going.)Me gustarà ­a aprender cà ³mo escribirlo en inglà ©s. (I would like to learn how to write it in English.)No tengo idea cul es la receta para la felicidad. (I dont have an idea what the recipe for happiness is.)No me dijo cundo volverà ­a a casa. (She didnt tell me when she would come home.)No me importa cunto dinero tengas. (It doesnt matter to me how much money you have.)Es difà ­cil decir dà ³nde estamos en comparacià ³n con los otros. (Its difficult to say where we are compared with the others.)No comprendo para quà © sirve el cinismo. (I dont know what the purpose of cynicism is.)No sabà ­amos por quà © esto habà ­a sucedido. (We dont know why this has happened.)Quiero entender quà © me est ocurriendo. (I want to understand what is happening to me.) Key Takeaways Interrogative words in Spanish require accent marks when they are used in both direct and indirect questions.Common interrogative words include dà ³nde (where), cà ³mo (how), and por quà © (why).The unaccented que usually means that, while the accented quà © usually means what.