Response to Class Discussion, 3/26

Well to start class off, I really enjoyed the cake so that was great. They can visit any time they would like!

But translating and interpreting the handout that was My Last Duchess by Ferrara was an interesting piece. Without going through it as a class, I would have set that down as soon I began reading. Old English language such as that is not my forte. But, translating it and reading from different perspectives help understand it. But the guy in the story is definitely creepy. And like Professor Condon said, the guy is hiding.

In the culture of rape, I guess I never did think about the assumptions that are usually assumed in most rape cases. The assumption that the girl went home with the guy because she was drunk, then it must be okay. The assumptions and unstated comments that are in the air that are created from our culture is what is going to interfere with the culture of rape. Other assumptions that go along with it is consent and sex. Also, how the girl presents herself. If she is flirtatious, dresses provocatively then "she was asking for it." Our country practices and preaches about individualism and how no one should be judged for what they wear or how they act, yet we are the most hypocritical and stereotypical country out there. If someone isn't conforming or acting the same as every body else, they are judged and it is very wrong.

Other hidden facets that are apart of rape culture is the way assumptions of success. It is assumed that white men have solid jobs, the women are at home in the kitchen and people of color are neither. In the world of business, it is sad to see how people judge and assume instantaneously. The common cliche quote of, "Don't judge a book by its cover"is pathetically inaccurate yet we preach it like it is a moral code. Yet, our moral goods aren't practiced either. And rape should fall under Do Not Harm, and do not do to others what you would not like them to do to you yet this happens multiple times on a day to day basis. The unfortunate matter is hiding behind the assumptions and unstated comments are killing the success of a rape free society.