SH+P4+2016+Omens

Omens Aim- Matthew Maher

In Julius Caesar by Shakespeare the purpose of the omens is to give the characters a insight to events and happenings in the future, which is a foreshadowing to the events that will unwind in the play. The omens also progress that play through giving the reader and characters the knowledge of the future events that will affect key characters, “an occurrence or phenomenon believed to portend a future event”(merriam-webster). The omens give a character the insight to the future that has the trend that leads to the main character's downfall. This is seen in the play Macbeth by shakespeare also that there is the supernatural of the witches giving Macbeth a insight to his future as king. The result was Macbeth dying, just like Julius Caesar when he is given warning of his death and what could be done to avoid it. Lastly, to give the reader an understanding in the events and actions taken by characters later on in the play.

Works Cited- "Omen." //Merriam-Webster.com//. Merriam-Webster. 2015. Web. 6 January 2016. Shmoop Editorial Team. "Omens in Julius Caesar." //Shmoop//. Shmoop University, Inc., 11 Nov. 2008. Web. 6 Jan. 2016.



Daniel Kemp, Matthew Maher, Jensen Powell (Audience) The intended audience of the term omen is people looking for an explanation of certain events in their life. About Religion explains that, “ an omen is viewed as a sign from the natural world that delivers a message of some sort” (Wigington). People always look for explanations to situations in their life. For example, when someone sees a black cat, they believe it’s bad luck. This is an omen. If they end up having an illness or injury, then they might believe the omen is real. Omens are there so people have something to blame for their misfortunes or happiness. People can’t always explain why certain events happen. This is why they believe in omens.

Works Cited- Wigington, Patti “What is an Omen?” //AboutReligion//. Web. 5 Jan. 2016 "Omen." //Merriam-Webster.com//. Merriam-Webster. 2015. Web. 6 January 2016.

Daniel Kemp (Historical) What is the historical impact of the term? Omens, in one form or another, have been a constant part of history. Omens have shaped history as luck in strong ways. “The belief that objects, or living beings could possess special spiritual properties was widespread in primitive societies. The Romans were no strangers to this idea” (Cavazzi). The Romans especially had strong superstitions ranging ranging from good to bad luck. A black cat and certain days of the month was considered bad luck for instance. Omens were forms of this luck as a good omen would shine good luck on the person while a bad omen would nudge people to not take risks. Some still believe such omens exist today.

Works Cited: Cavazzi, Franco.“Omens and Superstitions.” Web. 05 Jan. 2016 “Omens and Meanings.” //Reading Tea Leaves//. Web. 05 Jan. 2016

Cultural- Jensen Powell Everyday, people look for something to blame for their good luck or misfortunes. Some blame omens. About Religion explains that, “ For many practitioners of various magical traditions, there is a tendency to look for and find symbolism in everything, particularly in aspects of nature” (Wigington). But it is not only “ practitioners of various magical traditions” that use omens. It is people all around the world. In today’s society different hardships and illnesses occur with different people. Instead of accepting the fact, they look for something to blame. In this case, omens. This is also the case when something unexpectedly good happens. In today’s culture omens are used for people to explain why certain situations may occur.

Works Cited- Wigington, Patti “What is an Omen?” //AboutReligion//. Web. 5 Jan. 2016 “Omens and Meanings.” //Reading Tea Leaves//. Web. 5 Jan. 2016