Art that Lasts a Lifetime

Prompt:  How does art happen?

The vibrant splatter of paint on a daunting white canvas, the crack of a piece of marble with a carefully placed chisel, and the lead of a pencil streaking across an empty page are all moments of miraculous art waiting to be shared with others.  Art happens when an image is planted in the mind of someone craving to put an idea into reality.  Art can be created through paints, pastels, film, marble, and endless materials one may not even think of.  However, what matters is what hands these materials are placed in.  As long as this person is willing to create and express a piece of their self, art is happening.  After all, I have created both well done and not so well done work.  Yet regardless of the outcome, art has still occurred and a piece has implanted in the soul of the artist and the onlooker.  Once completed, the artist has freed themselves of the itching need for self expression- at least until next time- until the next idea fills the eager mind.

From the moment many people reach the ability to create, people desire to partake in art.  Though possibly unaware, even at a young age art happens frequently.  I know as a child I loved the feel of a crayon rolling along the smooth page of my brand new princess coloring book.  Though these colors ran together and did not even stay within the neatly placed lines as the creators intended, art happened.  After all, true art does not follow a rulebook of guidelines.  I just wanted to fill each spot on every page with my mark and my idea of beauty for dad to hang proudly on his desk at work, which he always did.  When the first colorful bin of chalk found its way in front of me, the driveway was quickly filled with endless sea creatures, stick-figure family portraits, and depths of my childlike imagination.  Once I shared these ideas across the recently washed driveway, art happened.  I created forts out of blankets and pillows, which to me was just as strong and brilliant as the towering Roman forums and palaces I see before me today.  Though not sturdy and substantial like the marble and bronze people of ancient times used, the cotton stitched blankets still expressed my artistic imagination brewing within. 

As time continued on, the materials and ideas of the artist changed but the action remained the same.  I graduated from crayons on up to markers, glue, and the oh-so desirable glitter.  I left my work on blue, red, and pink construction paper, and unfortunately for my mom, sometimes the carpet.  After all, nobody ever said art had to happen neatly.  When the first pair of scissors weaseled their awkward way into my still too small hands and I learned their ways, I created snowflakes of all shapes and sizes for a holiday extravaganza.  Afterwards, I compacted snow to form life-size creations of my own version of Frosty, decorated cookies with an assortment of frostings and sprinkles, and drew a picture for my parents in front of the cozy fire to hang on the fridge.  Seasons changed, and in the spring I made a bouquet assortment of the best dandelions and weeds all over town.  My mom placed the piece of art in our best vase in the center of our dinner table for all to appreciate and admire. 

Still, time waited for nobody, and instead of writing “To Mommy” on the top of my picture, I signed my name and handed works into Ms. Seitz, my middle school art teacher.  We wrote our name in huge block letters in the front of our booklets with colored pencils.  She taught me how to shade, use the color wheel, and distinguish when to use warm and cool colors.  I mixed primary paints together, and to my disbelief, made some of my favorite shades which she liked to call secondary colors.  We were taught that each person has their own perspective when creating art and that everything has shadows, depth, and varying composition.  We were graded on how well we used techniques and the time and effort we put into each one.  I could not whip out my crayon and color for pure enjoyment, but instead took out my carefully constructed plan and went to work. 

High school rolled around quickly and with that came diverse notions of art.  We learned what art was and meant, and how it changed with the time period and availability of materials.  We became aware of the fact that art happened differently in the eyes of van Gogh, da Vinci, Monet, and Picasso.  Not everything had to makes sense, as art now required interpretation.  Meticulously, we sketched, painted, and created for hours on end.  I was pleased when my art was not just hung upon our fridge with a magnet, but placed on a wall to be judged with an award winning certificate next to my name.  Art happened and I was pleased with the progression of ability I was attaining.

Finally, the time has come for my new definition of art.  I write to you sitting in Rome, surrounded by brilliant works I never thought I would have the liberty to see.  I have recently been introduced to a style of art known as etching by Gina Marziale and had the pleasure of attempting to create my own.  With my class, I have learned about art from the time of the Etruscans up until the Baroque period.  I have appreciated the statue of David soaring high above me, walked through the Uffizi Museum, and gazed in awe at the architecture of endless churches and synagogues.  I have not only witness, but been in and on the immense structures of the Coliseum, Pantheon, and Spanish steps.  The names Bernini and Brunelleschi have become commonplace in my life here the past eight weeks and I sit here finding myself truly blessed.  All of these artists have made art happen, not just for themselves, but for those who witness their art to this very day.  Art happens not only when the brush or chisel hits that piece of work but also when the onlooker deciphers what that piece of work means to them.  Art continues to happen as the message and idea first inspired by the artist connects with another and stays with them.  Art happens all around us and all of the time.  Whether art be a toddler grabbing that crayon for the first time or a fanatic viewing their favorite painting for the fiftieth time, art will persist and continue on.       

      

Nowhere to Turn

Journal Prompt: “Jews, Gypsies, North Africans and Mexicans.”

Piercing, relentless stares cloud the air when people do not know much about others and decide to stereotype a group of people.  Jews, Gypsies, North Africans, and Mexicans are just a few groups of people that face stereotypes and prejudice around Rome and throughout the world.  During my trip in the great city, I cannot say I have been free from subjecting all people to such stereotypes, for I have glared at more Gypsies these past six weeks than I can count on my fingers.  I justify it as ok since they are after my precious belongings of which I have worked so very hard for.  Yet there is an element of sorrow and distress lingering when I let a little boy in tattered, dirty clothes walk away empty handed with an empty stomach as I clutch my new leather purse to my stomach which was just filled with a mouthwatering panino and gelato.  The child knows not what he does.  He has been raised to beg, and as we are told, to steal when you are not looking.  So if everything you know is trying to stay alive day by day and the way to survive is through taking from others, who is to blame?  After all, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”  Is ignorance in the eyes of the Gypsy who was taught how to survive by the Gypsies before him, or in the eyes of the “victim” they stole from who may have all they need in the world and may not so much as glance back in the Gypsy’s direction?  The answer sadly is probably both with an unfortunately large amount of gray area in between.

Complex issues such as these may never get resolved and are a struggle for anyone and almost everyone in their daily life.  The people who live their lives through poor decisions ruin the potential trust one may have for an entire group of people.  However, many of these stereotypes do not arise as a result of the wrongdoing of anybody in the erroneously classified group of people.  Jews have been persecuted relentlessly over time for simply having a separate religion, North Africans have been conquered over time by Romans and Islam for the resources they have around them (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Africa), and many Mexicans face poverty but are unable to escape through the borders to the United States.  So where do we go when nobody has the right answer for justice and equality for all?  Can we actually help all of these people when we need to get by ourselves?  After all, as discussed in class, many tax dollars already go to the Gypsies who are in need and various countries allow for the immigration of numerous individuals. 

Immigration is a very important issue when it comes down to opening arms to the struggling groups.  A speaker came recently to our class in Rome and spoke of the issues regarding immigration into Italy.  22.4% of those coming into the country come from Africa, and although only one percent comes by boat from Northern Africa to Siciliy, the Italian government spends millions of dollars each year to keep this from happening.  So why spend such a large sum on such a small amount of people?  Could the money not be used to help these individuals so they would not need to come into the country to begin with or is it every man for himself?  This issue does not belong to Italy alone, as the United States also struggles with Mexican immigration.  One view is that “For most north of the border the question of who gets to come to the United States is, at base, a matter of law.  There is legislation, rules, regulations, criteria, waiting periods, and bureaucracies that should be respected” (http://mexidata.info/id350.html).  Another view is that the decision should not be based on law but on a basis of humanity and giving.      

I find myself walking on eggshells simply trying to write a response to the journal prompt and explain the situation.  Throughout even simple web searches I have found endless stereotypes and am afraid to accidentally and naively do so myself.  I have sadly come across websites saying we need people for “Mexican jobs,” and found that Anti-Semitism still is all too prominent.  I struggle to find the conclusion that the prompt hopes for when I realize that there is not actually an answer- not yet at least.  After all, if the right answer were here there would not be a debate to begin with.  Obviously, Anti-Semitism and discrimination are clearly wrong and immoral- or maybe not so obvious since the cycle of hatred somehow manages to perpetuate itself.  Evidence alone exists in how Jews have over and over again found themselves in situations unjustly bound down by rules, laws, and harm.  Rules and regulations try and compensate for this indefinite gray area and may in the long run just be complicating the situation and enforcing such stereotypes.  Referring to the issue at the Mexican and United States border, if we stop everyone at the border and ask to see documentation of their legalization in the country, are we not stereotyping and putting the idea in their head that they are not welcome?  On the other hand, if we do not stop anyone are we opening the country up for overpopulation and disaster?

The obvious answer is that we need a happy medium to accommodate for all of the various parties involved.  However, the all too noticeable problem is that none currently exists.  The issue is that we, not just as a country, but as a globe need to look into our brilliant minds and giving hearts to provide a decent life for all.  Though a solution may be far away, we can start heading somewhere for the benefit of all of the groups suffering from stereotypes.  Jews need to be treated as equals and Anti-Semitism must be kicked to the curb once and for all.  Gypsies need to have a pathway opened so they have the chance to get their life headed in the right direction.  North Africans and Mexicans either need a better solution to immigration laws or more opportunities in their home lands.  For starters, more education to the general population must be done to prevent lack of knowledge from brewing these unnecessary stereotypes.  With time and dedication, people can make a change as others have in the past for those struggling to be understood.           

Catholicism- Roman Background with a Global Reach

Journal Prompt:  The Pope’s address on Easter and Christmas always begins, “Urbi et Orbi”  - “To the City of Rome and to the World.” The term “Roman Catholic” also suggests that there is something “Roman” and something “universal” about the Church. In what sense is the Church “Roman” and in what sense is it “global?”

The ultimate purpose of the Church and of the Pope is to reach out to the global community and spread what they believe to be is the word of God.  After all, the actual meaning of the word Catholic is “universal” and is actually derived from the Greeks.  This correlates to the idea of Romans borrowing pieces of Greek culture and why Romans would use the term Catholic when originally naming the religion.  In order to fully understand how the Church and Pope have come to be, one must have an understanding of the Churches link to Roman history and divisions that have occurred over time. 

The phrase “Roman Catholic” came about for a reason, developing partly as a result of secular divisions throughout society and also due to the power Romans had initially during the time the church came to be.  After Jesus was persecuted on the cross, followers of Jesus Christ started developing Christianity.  Wikipedia explains that once the religious system was being set up, a hierarchy came to be within which strongly resembled and mimicked Roman systems.  Once arranged, Romans also were able to hold many of the positions further up in that hierarchy.  Though earlier Romans due to superstitions feared the Christians who believed in only one God, Constantine enforced the Edict of Milan making it the Empire religion in 313 AD. 

Even so, why is the title given mostly to Romans when numerous others devoutly follow the same faith?  Today people are divided into many different belief systems, just as people have almost always been.  Taking a step back in time to the ancient Roman days, one finds a division occurring between Protestants and Catholics.  “Following the Reformation in the 16th century, the church in ‘communion with the Bishop of Rome’ used the term ‘Catholic’ to distinguish itself from the various Protestant churches” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church).  Since the term Catholic set the Romans apart from everyone else including other Christians, the phrase Roman Catholicism enduring on today makes sense.  The church does after all prefer consistency and changing the name of an entire religion and group of people would cause controversy.

The history of the church is what makes the title Roman, however, when it comes down to the purpose and goal of the church, one finds the universal tone prevalent.  Looking around the Papal audience, one does not see only devout Catholics or Romans.  As I looked around, I saw people of all nationalities, religions, and belief systems excitedly gathered in one place and for one reason- to see the Pope.  The Pope addresses everyone, regardless of whether they follow the Catholic faith or not.  Though the Roman Catholic Church is not universal due to its fairly set belief system which excludes other religions, the church remains global because of its efforts to broadcast to all of the people of the world.  Just recently in London the Pope even made a large trip to continue the spread of the church’s teachings.  As we read in the London newspaper, the reports spoke of how the trip cost large controversial sums of money.  However, the other side of the argument is that the Vatican was reaching out to others and continuing the mission of Christ.  Regardless of what one believes and what stance is taken on the matter, the Roman Catholic Church will continue in their attempt to globalize and reach out.  

225 St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel

225 Journal Prompt: Your usual art journal with one object from St. Peter’s Basilica and some portion of the Sistine Chapel.

The Papal Altar and Baldacchino, located in St. Peter’s Basilica, stands soaring high, proud of its incredible design.  The structure is about thirty meters tall and is made of a compellation of metals, bronze, and marble.  Starting in the year 1624, Bernini continued for nine years working on the extravagant baldacchino in which “Bernini refers to the traditional ciborium of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, which was still being used during that period” (http://saintpetersbasilica.org/Altars/PapalAltar/PapalAltar.htm).  The website continues on to discuss how instead of making smooth poles, he decided to have a spiral design to make them different than the usual expected architectures, along with the brilliant décor of angels, keys of St. Peter, and sword of St. Paul. 
       

Part of what makes the altar and baldacchino interesting is all of what went in behind it.  Not only were many years put into building the beautiful architecture, but also large amounts of money.  Though previously the space was occupied by a separate structure, Urban VIII decided to give Bernini the position to create a better work using whatever means he needed.  Throughout the construction, they even went so far as taking 927 tons of bronze from the Pantheon to ensure the work of art would please everyone who looked upon it (http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/rome-st-peters-basilica).  The concept of Romans recycling parts of old buildings seems to continue on everywhere one looks and represents so much of ancient Roman culture.    

Another important note is all of the symbols present within the art.  When looking hard, one may find clues that represent all of the beliefs occurring around the time of its creation.  The website recognizes that “the baldacchino symbolizes the union of the Old Testament wisdom of Solomon, the Christian tradition of Constantine, and the rebirth of a triumphal church under the guidance of the Barberini family.”  The structure does so by incorporating the spirals as spoken of earlier representing a structure previously under Constantine, cherubs incorporating the Old Testament, and a sun and bees for the Barberini family.  Bernini was looking to please Urban VIII and did so very strongly.  By looking at ancient art, one finds so many hidden clues that could easily be overlooked by someone not as knowledgeable about the past.  The Papal altar and baldacchino are just one example of an artwork structure that leaves viewers searching endlessly for the history that makes up its very core.

Sistine Chapel- Michelangelo the Last Judgment

In the Sistine Chapel, one may find on the wall a magnificent painting done by Michelangelo.  His famous Last Judgment is hard to miss as it broadcasts its 539.3 in × 472.4 ingenious creation behind the altar.  Using a fresco and paint, Michelangelo took a step away from his usual chisel and set out on a mission to create a masterpiece.  Using his intellect and creativity, Michelangelo made a painting that easily stands out from the rest. 

During the time of which Michelangelo started, 1535, he ironically did not wish to paint since he was typically known for being a sculptor.  As our tour guide discussed, he was put on the mission anyway to be set up for failure.  Little did the Pope and church know how grand the outcome of his paintings would be.  Throughout the images, one may find many nude individuals which made many people uncomfortable.  One of the displeased individuals, Cesena, gave Michelangelo opposition at his audacity to paint people nude at a place of worship.  In retaliation, Michelangelo portrayed Cesena as the Master of Hell whom became enraged.  Pope Paul III was not concerned with this portrayal and responded cleverly, “I might have released you from Purgatory, but over Hell I have no power" (http://www.reidsitaly.com/destinations/lazio/rome/sights/vatican_sistine.html).  The artwork which is so well known manages to give insight to the life and humor of the man behind the paintbrush, making it that much more valuable. 

Though Cesena remains in Hell in the painting today, unfortunately for Michelangelo, one of his students Volterra was instructed to paint clothes over the figures in the end (http://www.italian-renaissance-art.com/Last-Judgement.html).  Not only was there controversy then, but the fight continues on even today.  During a restoration and cleaning, some of the clothes were removed from the painting to portray Michelangelo’s initial intentions.  However, nobody knows for sure which figures he actually wanted clothed and which naked so many people remain unhappy (http://www.reidsitaly.com/destinations/lazio/rome/sights/vatican_sistine.html).  Whether or not the work is currently what Michelangelo wanted it to be, the painting still brings out much emotion in others.  Portraying the coming of Christ along with martyred Saints and the depths of Hell, the fresco still inspires people, bringing out passion people did not know they had for art.             

Unnecessary Treachery

Prompt: What is the impact of the ghetto (in both the old sense and a contemporary sense) on the people inside and the people outside?

The Jewish ghetto, once packed full of people striving for some sense of a normal life, is now much more desolate with only tourists trying to picture what once was.  Walking around, I found it hard to believe that the places I saw which were radiating with beauty were once full of gloom, filth, and unjust discrimination.  Though the ghetto in the old sense was a place of suffering and unhappiness, the contemporary ghetto is a place full of history shouting to the current generations to learn from the past and make a difference for the future.  Observing the ghetto with my tour group, I saw enlightened faces, renovated buildings, and artifacts of the past- the past which tormented endless numbers of lives.  Today people look forward to getting inside the ghetto as they stroll along on their pleasant vacation away from the work they so gladly left behind.  However, in the past people wished nothing more than to get out of that ghetto and go back to the work they were forced out of. 

In the past, from an inside perspective, the ghettos impact was horrific.  You cram into rooms that are not your home or no longer belong to you, are put in a foreign job, and try to pretend that life is what it used to be.  However, life is surreal and not what you have been accustomed to.  You realize that you cannot wake up and that your worst nightmare has weaseled its ugly way into your daily life.  The nightmare is inescapable and no pinch will bring you back to what once was.  As the tour guide explains, the ghetto only fills with more and more people so much that there is no way to build living spaces but up.  The Jews are cramped, have markings on their clothing as if they are ravenous animals that need to be steered clear of, and stripped of all that made their life familiar and normal.  Not only are the basics taken but the attempt is made to even wipe out their very foundation.  The religion they have learned all of their life can no longer be taught and they must attend mass instead of being in the comfort of the temple.  They are forced to secretly pray and hope for God to snap away the pain.               

Moving on into the contemporary sense, the ghetto impacts us with astonishment and awe at the human behavior that was exhibited.  Though I found it particularly hard to picture the set-up of the past and how the buildings were, I found it easy to imagine how poorly the Jews must have felt.  The teachings given now throughout the Jewish ghetto and the museum allow people to take a step back into the footprints of those of the past and empathize with those who suffered.  The largest powers turned their back on innocent people and nobody was there to take a stand for what was right.  Whether speaking of the ghettos which existed from about 1555 to 1870 or history repeating itself during the Jewish persecution during the Holocaust, we are taught to not continue the cycle of pointless hatred (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Ghetto).  The same goes for those which existed outside of the ghetto.

We learn today that we should take a stand because those that lived outside of the ghetto did not.  The people living outside did not destroy the walls, make objections, or aid those living there.  Though there may have been some exceptions, the ghetto lasted for hundreds of years, portraying that efforts were clearly not widespread or enough.  Those that walk by the ghetto still today and remain on the outside have yet to learn from those that lived there before.  Learning about history of all kinds is vital, and by remaining ignorant people can only pave the pathway for disaster.  Does one have to actually witness the inside of the ghetto to understand its importance?  The answer is probably not.  However, the aid helps and as long as we continue to teach one another and evolve to higher levels of understanding and acceptance, we will restore humanity one piece at a time.  The nightmare of the past shakes us awake to the reality of what could happen if we allow histories unnecessary cycle to perpetuate.  

A New Line of Sight

Prompt: How does the Piazza provide a lens for Italian culture?

Laughter, gestures flying, the sweet aroma of Italian cuisine, ring-a-ling of church bells, and endless chit chatter fill any piazza one steps into.  The fact that the piazza is in itself a gathering place for people of all stations and types goes to show how it encompasses a wide variety of Italian culture.  Certain piazzas also seem to have a “personality” of their own, and by visiting different ones people can hear the whisper of what each one wishes you to take with you. 

The surroundings on the outskirts of the piazzas offer different people what part of Italian culture they are looking for.  For example, the Piazza di Spagna pronounces endless fashion by the streets that streamline into it.  Gucci, Prada, and Dior all show their high end faces, tempting those who walk by.  Even Danilo our Italian professor claims that Italians only like the best and that here you might as well live large or go home.  The Piazza del Popolo on the other hand seems to beckon “come on in and pray” with both its twin churches and Santa Maria del Popolo standing proud.  The piazza also has the Villa Borghese gardens calling out to everyone wishing for relaxation.  Through Piazza Navona you can often stroll leisurely and look at art of the most beautiful places in Italy- anywhere from realistic landscapes to a more modern style of famous landmarks.  However, many of these qualities overlap between varying locations.  Most piazzas do offer shopping, places of worship, beauty, and art.  After all, each one I have seen involves people partaking in all of these activities, not excluding eating, viewing sculptures, gathering around fountains, and people catching up with one another on their daily lives.  Can't find the piazza you are looking for?  Just look up in the sky for the soaring obelisk that marks each spot.  However, each one just seems to have a certain specialty and unique zest.  Through the all encompassing fulfillment of needs and desires offered, the piazza becomes a center of life for Italians.

What better way to learn of Italian culture than from the Italians themselves?  Piazzas provide some of the best “people-watching” around.  All you need is a bench, maybe a freshly made panino and cappuccino from the charming little shop next door, and time.  Granted, tourists filled much of the piazza during the August month and you are constantly seeing the flash of a camera, people staring blankly at maps, and people trying to pose as a native.  My friend Maria even stated “Sometimes I forget I am not from here.  I accidently told someone I was Italian and she gave me such a strange look.”  Tourists become enthralled with the new culture surrounding them and everything at times seems to come almost naturally.  Yet as much as one tries, the true Italians in the piazza see right through you.  Barzini notes “[The tourists] try hard to gesticulate wildly as they speak.  They usually manage it in the style of amateur comedians playing an Italian character” (6).  However, as the August month rolled to an end along with much of the radiating heat, the piazzas filled up with not only tourists, but again with the Italians themselves.  That is when the true magic of Rome started happening.

Just the other day we had a scavenger hunt in which we had to find various places and objects in the different piazzas.  I could not help but notice the variety of people we were now able to ask.  Before I looked around and saw people from almost every country but Italy.  Now the piazza was bursting full with true Italian life.  Through our new lens we could witness businessmen in suits talking over a little drink or two, the carabinieri standing tall by their vehicles making sure nothing has gone awry, teenagers jesting away, and gypsies with all sorts of goods ready to throw at the remaining tourists.  If you are studious enough to learn the Italian language and your lens is stronger, you can take away all of the conversations you hear and have a deeper understanding of everyday life.  Even if your lens is not strong enough, you still are able to perceive the endless gestures Italians are known for which manage to tell so much.  “Conversations can be followed at a distance by merely watching the changing expressions of those taking part in them… Reading facial expressions is an important art in Italy” (Barzini 61).  Since each expression is a piece of artwork as noted in The Italians, than they are also a clear view into Italian culture. 

Why does one have to go to a piazza though for a lens into that culture?  I have easily walked around side streets and found shops, churches lost in time, and mini fountains with sculpture décor.  I have walked around and seen people doing their everyday things as I am getting from point A to point B.  The train alone is a hotspot for Italian conversation used to pass the time away.  I have seen sites such as the Coliseum and Roman Forum which also give information on what has led to the culture of today.  The answer simply seems to be that you can have sights into Italian culture elsewhere, but everywhere else is only a piece of that lens.  In the piazza you have diversity and layers of what makes up the culture to complete the lens and obtain the bigger picture.  Italian religion, food, social etiquette, art, and even the tourists which at times compose much of Rome gather into one place called the piazza- and through this piazza can you really get the idea of why you have come to the beautiful place called Rome.  

314- A Hero Until the End

Prompt: In what way is Giorgio Perlasca an “Authentic Italian Hero”?  What does “authentic hero” mean?

The label hero is thrown around in the media, but what makes a person able to obtain such a glorious title?  Is it somebody who does extraordinary things most people are not capable of, or is it an ordinary person who has the opportunity to show their integrity when they are surrounded by darkness?  My friend once told me a story about an older woman who showed up at a stranger’s door.  Upon the knock, knock, knock, a younger woman and her child answered, confused when the stranger quickly embraced them, paused, and then burst into tears.  She explained that had it not been for the woman’s husband and the young child’s father, she would have been killed in the terrorist attack on 9/11.  He was your average worker, who during the attack went beyond himself and saved this older woman at the expense of his future with his family.  She wanted to let them know he died for a cause, and she thanked them for his heroism as they wept together.  However, does an authentic hero have to risk their life to become one? 

One of my favorite songs sung by Jamie O’Neal called “Somebody’s Hero” has lyrics which consider:

She’s never pulled anyone from a burning building…

No, she’s just your everyday average girl (but),

She’s somebody’s hero,

A hero to her baby with a skinned up knee,

A little kiss is all she needs […]

She’s somebody’s hero,

A hero to her daughter in her wedding dress,

She gave her wings to leave the nest

(http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/jamie-o-neal/somebodys-hero-15251.html).  The mother was a hero in her daughter’s eyes because of the boundless love and giving throughout the course of her life.  The common factor in these hero stories seems to be the giving to another beyond the Freudian “id” of self-survival and self-concern.   

Giorgio Perlasca, however, was a heroic man that did risk his life for the lives of many others suffering from unjust persecution.  Prior to the Holocaust he was your average man, and afterwards he remained one.  During, however, he proved himself extraordinary.  While many Germans worked for fascist Hitler through blind, detestable eyes, Perlasca stood up against them through a series of lies and deceit he could have been killed for.  Through one slip up or one observable Nazi, Perlasca would have perished along with those he was protecting.  Yet he still endured on above all odds, saving over 5,000 victims.

One way to figure out what makes him and others authentic heroes is to decipher what one is not.  Those surrounding Perlasca were either subject to immense fear or intense hatred.  Place yourself in Europe during the Holocaust.  The deafening roar of screams and gunshots pollute the air and the sight of innocent blood, remorseless Nazi faces, and weeping families fill the streets.  The people that feared the Nazis would not speak up at the expense of endless lives wasted, until they found their names being called next on the list and it was simply too late.  Those who swooned for the words of Hitler were easily persuaded and under his malicious spell.  One would think the spell would be broken upon the spilling of blood at their shoes and that the foundations of morality would come back, but instead those individuals just became thirsty for more.  Granted Perlasca came to Budapest which remained unoccupied by Nazis until 1944, but he still rose above the fear and the blind hatred when they came his way and he became the authentic hero we now admire (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Budapest_Ghetto).

Even though others in time have lost their lives by standing up against such evil, Perlasca had the advantage of position and being able to fake authority.  A website explains that since Perlasca fought in the Spanish War, he was able to remain in Budapest and obtain a position working there through the protection of the embassy, rather than returning to Italy as ordered.  Perlasca bravely took on a Spanish name, and when the embassy relocated, he stayed behind and impersonated the ambassador.  “In the next 45 days he was working round the clock to organize the protection and feeding of thousands of Hungarian Jews in the protected houses. He saved approximately 5200 Hungarian Jews” (http://jhungary.com/Giorgio_Perlasca).   

From the story told, he is obviously a hero, but what makes him authentic?  When Perlasca started, he was not looking for a spot on the front page news or his five minutes of fame.  He was neither Hungarian or religious, thus not just trying to show loyalty to his people.  He did not owe these thousands of people favors, nor did he probably even know any of them prior to the war.  He was merely looking for a return to normalcy and freedom from Nazi injustice.  When he finished, he did not ask for medals or expect to be praised for his good deeds.  He was not looking for people to call him a hero or even acknowledge that he saved countless lives without halting for fear of his own.  These are the characteristics that make him an “authentic Italian hero” and would make any other person for that matter an “authentic hero.”  As discussed earlier, darkness surrounds when a plane deliberately crashes into a building, when a child cries in need for their mother, and when fascists show their ugly face- but when others cower from loss of sight, heroes like Giorgio Perlasca will strike a match and guide the way to everlasting light.  

225 September 2, 2010

Taking Art to the Grave

Upon visiting the beautiful city of Venice, Italy, our class took some time to journey to the Old Jewish Cemetery, located on Lido Island.  What struck me the most about the cemetery out of everything was the vast and wide ranging types of tombstones present.  Though merely an estimate, the graves ranged everywhere in size from about two to probably fifteen feet tall.  Only one reached that high into the sky, but going beyond height, they more importantly had their own personalities.  Just as people had put art into their houses, cities, and daily lives, they filled the cemeteries with them as well.  The tombstones did not just show the facts of their life, but the personality the person had, social status, and during which time period this person lived- not only by the date inscripted but by the style of that tombstone. 

Looking around the graveyard, I could not help but notice the diversity present as a result of the history behind the tombstones.  One appears stumpy in the shape of a house with a pointed top, positioned next to another which is rectangular, standing tall and proud.  This tombstone looks down upon the one next to it which is sprawled flat on the floor.  After all, the cemetery was started as early as 1386 and was used all the way up until about the 1700’s (http://www.archipelago.org/vol2-3/lido.htm).  The website continues on to discuss how as a result of such a wide time frame, people are able to see how “the sober classicism of the Renaissance, the excesses of the Baroque -- reflect the level of intimacy with “gentile” society.”  Each tombstone is clearly identified based on its appearance, with the exception of the excavated, broken ones that cling to the walls of the cemetery, begging to not be forgotten.

The tombstones were also adorned with the Hebrew language and various symbols.  As a result, iconography becomes rather important.  The language used symbols upon these tombstones which can be very hard to read and interpret.  However, they are still very important in that they represent the ancestors and history of Jewish society.  As the Spitzer’s discussed, the language is almost like a puzzle that one must analyze, dissect, and put together.  I found this rather intriguing because these ancestors left the inscriptions behind for a purpose- for the dead to be remembered by and to inspire future generations.  To a blind person it may just be a slab with foreign figures on it, but to the one who truly sees and looks further, it is a magical story to be told. 

Saint Mark’s Basilica

Missing Saint Mark’s Basilica would be nearly impossible if it is close by.  The basilica pulls tourists in left and right through the intense beauty and work put in to create it.  76.5 meters long, 62.5 meters wide, and with a dome 43 by 28 meters, the structure stands glistening in the sun, leaving people to simply stand in awe of its magnificence (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Mark's_Basilica).  Made of everything from stone to wood, to gold, bronze, and marble, the basilica seems to be able to please a variety of tastes.

Part of the reason may be due to the long construction and alterations that took place to the basilica over the years.  According to Wikipedia, though the first was destroyed by fire, a new one was built in 978 AD and was not completed until 1617 AD.  Domes were built to fit in with other Gothic structures nearby, statues were added for Classical style, and much of the interior was to represent Byzantine and Gothic style, which is generally what the structure is considered to be.  Everyone wanted to put in a splash of their own taste throughout history which makes the basilica an incredible place to learn from.

Importantly noted is where so many of the pieces of art in the basilica came from.  As we have talked about in class, much of Rome’s money came from conquering other places.  In the same way, a large amount of the art that was brought into the basilica was booty captured from the places Rome took over. “As Venetian ships returned from the Crusades and other expeditions, they were filled with treasures, and many of the architectural bits from ancient sites and buildings found their way onto the basilica” (http://www.suite101.com/content/st-marks-in-venice-an-exterior-tour-a141998).  Even in class we spoke of how Roman religion was porous and mutable, and this appears to connect with their changing styles as well.  Though the basilica may not be a direct reflection of Roman style preferences, it does represent their actions and larger cultural influences.  

Hum 325: History and Faith- Work in Progress

Prompt: The major religions of the West, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, all promise some sort of future salvation. However, all are inextricably linked to the past. Does history contribute/bolster faith, or does the past limit faith?

History undoubtedly has the capabilities of affecting religion.  Whether or not history bolsters or limits faith is how the individual uses the information offered.  Without history, we would not have documentation of Jesus who walked the earth, Moses who led the Jews away from the power of the Pharaoh, and the knowledge of how religion has progressed over time.  I can tell you now that I do not know the deep roots of Christian, Jewish, or Islamic religions or have enough background to go into each of their historical pasts.  However, in a broader perspective, history has created the texts and stories we follow today and makes up the foundation of these faiths.  Without the history, what basis would we have our faith on?  Christians would not be waiting for the second coming of Christ, Jews would not celebrate Passover, and Islam would not celebrate Ramadan.

On the other hand, people can also receive negative connotations from the history of religion.  Religious persecution, wars, and the Holocaust are all examples of religious events that portray downfalls in humanity.  However, is this history limiting faith if we have also learned from the treacheries of the past?  Religion, at least what I have been taught in Christianity, does teach us to forgive and move past previous transgressions.  After all, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are all looking ahead towards salvation in which God passes judgments upon mankind, not us passing judgments upon each other and our ancestors. 

In addition, the promise of future salvation keeps us looking ahead.  So how is it that the past could hinder us from looking ahead towards the future?  Instead, the past shows us God’s promise that keeps us looking forward and striving towards His love- the promise that keeps humanity willing to be good and abide by God’s laws given to us.  The Torah, the Bible, and the Quran teach us to live properly now in order to be saved later.  When looking at Christianity, in the first letter of Peter, he wrote, “…Christ suffered for you and left an example for you to follow the way he took.”  By following these historical texts and beliefs, we improve our treatment of one another, bolstering our faith and sense of community. 

Granted, history does prefer solid facts and concrete evidence.  As a result, religious texts become myths and complex stories rather than being documented as positive truth.  You do not open a history book and see “And then God created man.”  Creation of man and spiritual beliefs are left for interpretation to those individuals who seek God and faith.  Putting that into consideration, it may be taken as another positive history brings upon religion.  If history made something a solid truth, people would dispute and battle constantly about what that truth is.  The miniscule details of each text would be the focus rather than embracing the meaning behind those words.  The religious divisions would be under constant attack and defense over what they believe to be true.  History protects that freedom of belief by simply stating who lived in what year, the known occurrences and actions of those people, and stops from going into the depth behind them.  History allows an opening for a further story to be told and interpreted on a more individual, subjective point of view.

Even if history did in some way inhibit the full force of faith, what are we to do about that?  Are we to try and erase the past and start over new?  Pretending history did not happen could be toxic to society.  Mistakes would be repeated, people would not have as strong of an understanding, and faith would stop evolving.  Society has never agreed upon a single truth, but we may still be headed together in the right direction.  We have no choice but to listen to the past and let it help dictate who we are today.  History, as long as it is used correctly, is vital to all that makes us faithful to begin with.  Had we not read these miraculous texts and heard these beautiful stories of God and salvation, we would not be who we are.  We are transforming, through history, to be better people for God upon the coming of salvation.  It is a brand new day and we should move forward with our faith to leave a great history behind for the future generations.  

314 Journal #1: The Elements that Bind Society

Prompt: Are there parallels between the Rome/Jerusalem reality and our contemporary world? 

Greed, desire, a drive for more land, power, and conquest are all a part of the dirty peel of humanity.  Yet when you get down to the core, faith, hope, and peace remain.  This is just as true now as it was back when Rome and Jerusalem were prominent figures in civilization.  Countries are always conflicting, battles are being won and lost, and some dark individuals are lurking and waiting to jump out and cause trouble.  However, time continues on in its natural course with humanity being heaved along for the ride.  Stratifications exist in every country whether it is due to social status in some or discrimination in others.  Cultural rituals exist and with that come clashes between differing ones.  So what makes now any different from the past?

In class we spoke of the reality of Roman and Jerusalem society.  However, it is hard to confine reality since reality differs through varying eyes.  According to a Google definition, reality "…is here on earth, the agreement that exists." To understand the similarities between Rome and Jerusalem in comparison to today’s society we must first examine what we believe to be the reality of those that lived back centuries ago.  Stratification in Rome existed mostly through monetary means and to which family you belong to while stratification in Jerusalem primarily existed through the level of holiness of the life you lived.  Therefore, walking around as an emperor in Rome, your reality was pleasure, desire, and power.  Do you conquer to the north, south, east, or west next?  Walking underneath him with different blood running through your veins, your reality as a slave was full of fear and uncertainty.  Would you be back to spend time with your family tomorrow or would you be fed to the lions for the pleasure of that emperor?  Living in Jerusalem, whether a high priest or an average citizen, you walk around hoping for the coming of the Lord to bring salvation and an uplifting truth to mankind.  Your life is through the temple that reaches its hands out to encompass God.

 

Just as the past societies have stratification that can dictate lives, so do the countries of today.  The more money you have, the more houses you can purchase and land you are able to “conquest.”  You may have regular homes, summer homes, and/or apartments for business travel.  You can also be a slave to money, scrimmaging through garbage cans for something useful and spending each day trying to get by, hoping the roar of winter will not take you away.  In some of the Middle East, women are still below men and can be in a way slaves to their husbands.  People are still judged by the color of their skin and not what is beneath.  However, this is focusing on few while many have also progressed past the extremes Rome and Jerusalem’s reality experienced.  For example, America typically prides in the improvement in equality over the past decades.  The country has gone from owning slaves as the Romans did to yearning for unified education and rights for all.  Granted, we can never get all of the dirt off of the peel of humanity and we are only slowly rinsing it away, but it is a start of learning from the past and moving forward. 

 Reverting back to the micro level, people are incessantly trying to prove that they are wealthy and find themselves striving for material goods.  Walking around, I see people running out to buy the latest iPod, the most technologically advanced cell phone, and the hottest new laptop.  People are moving to bigger houses with larger yards, buying newer cars to fill up their driveway, and sliding that credit card through the register to see what else they can get their hands on.  Money is power and just as Rome and Jerusalem filled their cities with intense palaces or temples, so do we with our material goods in our own home.  Not everyone feels that way and cares what others even think, but after all, America did create the phrase “Keeping up with the Joneses.”  Beyond that, we also can relate to the religious reality of Jerusalem.  Places of worship are everywhere and people come together to unify with God and others who share their same belief.  “The Temple was a place of constant activity, often crammed with worshippers,” (Rome and Jerusalem 58).  Though our churches and synagogues may not be constantly running and we have scheduled times for masses, I have seen many times each bench stock full of people, forcing others to willingly stand in the back to be able to still share in the experience with their community. 

Whether speaking of faith or desire for power, the reality of the past and the contemporary world include these key themes.  “By justice a king gives a county stability, but one who is greedy for bribes tears it down” (Proverbs 29:4).  Members of society will always be greedy while others strive for justice to combat such evil.  Only through these parallels with past societies can we understand the progressions we have made and the direction we must head in.  Can we or should we get rid of this stratification so prevalent in our society?  If the answer is yes, what steps do we need to take to create a place for us to thrive and worship together in, free of the injustice of the past?