Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Guang Li
Period 7 Sophomores
Blogger #15
Aim- How can we analyze the importance of names, while symbolically analyzing the characters of the novel?
Do Now- Why might what a person is named matter?
- Brainstorm the ways your name can impact outcomes.
- As a result of your thoughts, do you believe that people should change their names, if they can yield negative results? Why/Why not?
3/10/20 Notes:
First, we discussed the meanings behind a name, both literal and sentimental (you might have a name important to your family.) Names can also have certain connotations, with attached tags- people with bland names often fade into the background, why people with unique names stand out immediately.
Names themselves are also tags- people often associate people with the name they remember them by. Also, people can be generalized by name (ex. You look like a Kyle) and people often link people with the same name. For example, married couples are expected to have the same last name. Your name is your identity- one that separates you from others (for the most part.)
Also, think about it. What’s the first thing you tell someone when introducing yourself? Your name is part of your brand.
We then discussed whether names can impact outcomes. For example, in college acceptance, career status, and aspects of life, your name can impact the outcomes of such events. Certain names have social stigmas attached to them- and often is the source of racism or racial segregation. For example, to promote diversity and accept minorities, some schools will accept certain races over others and make the difference between getting accepted or denied. Even at Staten Island Technical HS, we’re looking to diversify the student population.
Next, we discussed whether people should change their names if they yield negative results, or has a certain connotation attached to it. The general consensus was yes, as certain names had such a negative reaction that it would be for the best of all.
We then did the Chapter 1 group assignment for Animal Farm, “What's in a Name?” The activity discusses the use of character names as allegories that can help to infer their characteristics and traits, and what types of people they are. We also discussed who they represent- for example, Mr. Jones is representative of Tsar Nicholas II, who didn’t care about the troubles of his people.
Reflection:
I think today’s lesson was important in understanding how we perceive others might be biased or influenced based on their names or our previous experiences that might be linked to the other person.
For more information on the importance of names and how it identifies you, I really liked this:
Also, there were some quotes which seemed particularly relevant, which I would like to share.
“In terms of identity, an identity reflects individuality, by definition. And, if there is a quality present, it is recognizable and it can be named. If you can’t name it, it means you don’t recognize it.”
- Robert Fripp
“It is through our names that we first place ourselves in the world. Our names, being the gift of others, must be made our own.”
- Ralph Ellison
Here's a resource about famous celebrities that changed their name. Why do you think they may have done so?
In my case, I found a newfound awe at the importance of names, and how they define everyday aspects of our lives. Even when it comes to my name, I like to be referred to by the first half of my first name, and despise being called otherwise. That is my chosen identity. Every time you hear someone calling your name in public, you instinctively look up, even if it might not be directed you, as it is how you identify yourself.
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