Financial Management and Control †Kingspan Free Essays

Financial Management and Control Kingspan Assignment 6th December 2012 Contents Introduction4 1. Profitability Ratios4 1. 1Gross Profit Ratio4 1. We will write a custom essay sample on Financial Management and Control – Kingspan or any similar topic only for you Order Now 2Net Profit Ratio4 1. 3Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)4 2. Liquidity Ratios5 2. 1Current Ratio5 2. 2Quick Ratio/Acid Test Ratio5 3. Efficiency Ratios6 3. 1Debtors Days6 3. 2Creditors Days6 3. 3Inventory Turnover Days6 4. Gearing Ratios7 4. 1Gearing Ratio7 4. 2Debt to Equity Ratio7 4. 3Interest Cover7 5. Investment Ratios8 5. 1Earnings per Share8 5. 2Price Earnings Ratio8 5. 3Dividend Cover8 6. Sources of Finance9 6. 1Debt capital:9 6. 2Lease and Hire Purchase9 . 3Share Capital9 6. 4Creditor Debtors10 6. 5Reducing stock levels10 7. Conclusion10 7. Appendices11 7. 1Appendix 111 7. 2Appendix 212 Introduction Below are the ratio findings based on Kingspan PLC’s annual report year ended 31st December 2010. The ratios are calculated for both 2010 and 2009. The ratios are as follows: 1. Profitability Ratios 1. 1Gross Profit Ratio 20102009 Gross Profit333,694Ãâ€"100%=27. 96%308,913Ãâ€"100%=27. 45% Sales Revenue1,193,2151,125,523 There is a slightly higher Gross Profit in 2010. K ingspan are now holding onto . 51% more of each euro of sales then they were in 2009. This is due to the increase in sales. 1. 2Net Profit Ratio 20102009 Net Profit (before Int Tax)67,405Ãâ€"100%=5. 65%62,659Ãâ€"100%=5. 57% Sales Revenue1,193,2151,125,523 There is a slight increase of. 08% in 2010 compared to 2009. If going by the gross profit ratio this should have been higher; this indicates that they need to manage their expenses more efficiently thus increasing their net profit. 1. 3Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) 20102009 Net Profit (before Int Tax)67,405Ãâ€"100%=7. 65%62,659Ãâ€"100%=7. 97% Capital Employed (W1)880,616786,676 Kingspan has been less efficient in using their capital in 2010; they are down by . 2% from 2009. Although there was an increase in sales in 2010 the decrease in ROCE is due to the higher borrowings in 2010. If in following years they continue this trend investors could start to worry and sell shares. 2. Liquidity Ratios 2. 1Current Ratio 20102009 Current Assets471,193=1. 55:1398,212=1. 31:1 Current Liabilities304,922303,529 The curr ent ratio in 2010 shows that kingspan are managing their short term debt more efficiently than in 2009; this is due to increasing their current assets and managing to keep their currents liabilities relativity steady. They need to manage their debtors and stock better to further increase the ratio which will entice potential investors. 2. 2Quick Ratio/Acid Test Ratio 20102009 Current Assets less Closing Inventory (W2)342,158=1. 12:1287,391=0. 95:1 Current liabilities304,922 303,529 In 2009 Kingspan may have had difficulty in paying their short term creditors but they have managed to increase it in 2010. Given the ideal ratio of 1:1 they could look at investing the surplus assets for a return. ? 3. Efficiency Ratios 3. 1Debtors Days 20102009 Debtors218,047Ãâ€"365=66. 70Days181,071Ãâ€"365=58. 72Days Credit Sales1,193,2151,125,523 Kingspan were managing their debtors better in 2009. There is an increase of 8 days in 2010; this could potentially lead to bad debt. Collecting their debt earlier will increase the liquidity of the business. They could offer discounts on early payment or offer a cash price. 3. 2Creditors Days 20102009 Creditors93,024Ãâ€"365=38. 68Days85,228Ãâ€"365=40. 42Days Credit Purchases (W3)877,735769,671 Kingspans creditors days have decreased by 2 days meaning they are paying off their debts 2 days earlier than in 2009. This shows that Kingspan are managing their debt more efficiently and may interest potential investors. 3. Inventory Turnover Days 20102009 Average Inventory (W4)119,928Ãâ€"365=50. 93Days134,291Ãâ€"365=60. 02Days Cost of Sales859,521816,610 Kingspan has managed their stock more efficiently in 2010; by doing so they have increased their cash flow and reduced their holding costs. ? 4. Gearing Ratios 4. 1Gearing Ratio 20102009 Long Term Borrowing213,671Ãâ€"100%=24. 26%201,14 1Ãâ€"100%=25. 57% Total Capital (W1)880,616786,676 By decreasing the level of gearing they have decreased the level of financial risk, although they have increased their borrowing the increase in capital is greater meaning that they are using less debt to make their profit. . 2Debt to Equity Ratio 20102009 Long Term Borrowing213,671Ãâ€"100%=32. 04%201,141Ãâ€"100%=34. 35% Shareholders Funds666,945585,535 Debt to equity has decreased by almost 2% in 2010 showing that there are more shareholders funds to borrowings. This shows that Kingspan can manage to pay their debts which is important for future borrowings and investors. 4. 3Interest Cover Interest Cover 20102009 Profit before Interest Tax67,405=5. 3562,659=4. 91 Loan Interest12,59412,750 There are higher interest rates associated with short term borrowings than there are with long term borrowings. By reducing their short term and increasing their long term borrowings Kingspan has reduced their finance costs in 2010. They have also increased their sales giving a better interest cover. It shows that in 2010 Kingspan would be able to pay their interest 5. 35 times compared to 4. 91 times in 2009. Bank and investors would look at this ratio to see how they cover their loans. 5. Investment Ratios 5. 1Earnings per Share 20102009 Profit after Interest and Tax48,657,000= â‚ ¬ 0. 28 47,658,000= â‚ ¬ 0. 28 Number of ordinary shares171,755,762171,503,951 Earnings per share in 2010 have remained almost the same as 2009. It is displayed here rounded but 2010 has a slight increase. It shows the profitability of Kingspan and the consistency of the EPS shows security. Shareholders are receiving a slightly higher return in 2010. 5. 2Price Earnings Ratio 20102009 Price per share7. 49=â‚ ¬ 26. 956. 05 =â‚ ¬ 21. 32 Earnings per Share0. 280. 28 It is more expensive to buy Kingspan shares in 2010 than compared to 2009; this shows confidence in future earning power. 5. 3Dividend Cover 20102009 Profit after Int tax Pref Div48,657=7. 0NIL Earnings per Share6,661 Kingspan can pay their shareholders 7. 3 times from their available profits. They did not pay any dividend in 2009; this could have been a strategic move to increase cash flow. ? 6. Sources of Finance Kingspan operate a number of different finance sources, such as: 6. 1Debt capital: Kingspan have both long and short term borrowings. With short term borrowings such as overdrafts and hire purchase kingspan will pay a high interest rate on their 2009 borrowings of â‚ ¬31,863mn but they have managed to reduce that by over half to â‚ ¬14,259mn. This will reduce the financial costs. The interest rate for long term borrowings is generally a lot lower than that of short term loans; although Kingspan increased there long term borrowings in 2010 by â‚ ¬12,529mn they will be paying a lower interest rate, again saving on finance costs. By reducing their short term borrowings and increasing their long term borrowings in 2010, Kingspan have managed to reduce their overall finance cost to â‚ ¬156mn in 2010. The long term borrowings of â‚ ¬213,671mn have been scheduled for staggered repayments over 5 years, this ill allow kingspan to meet their liabilities when due. Interest rates for loans over â‚ ¬300,000 can be discussed with individual financial institutions. Kingspan’s interest rate for both long and short term loans will depend on their credit rating. They will have to be able to produce cash flow forecasts or provide security for the loan. 6. 2Lease and Hire Purchase This form of finance allows Kingspan to ob tain the use of an asset without a large initial cost. It is beneficial as the risk remains with the owner and as technology changes they can upgrade the equipment with minimal cost. Kingspan have increased their lease/hire purchase costs by â‚ ¬7mn in 2010. 6. 3Share Capital The core funding in Kingspan is provided by shareholders; this increased by â‚ ¬81,410mn in 2010. Although there is risk involved and there may be a high return expected by using this form of financing there is no requirement to pay dividends even if profits exist. As Kingspan do not have preferred shareholders they did not pay out dividends in 2009 and allowed them to retain their profit and improve sales. 6. 4Creditor Debtors Kingspan’s creditors days decreased by 2 days in 2010; depending on the agreement they may have been able to receive a discount for early payment. However agreeing longer credit terms with their suppliers would allow them more flexibility with cash flow. In 2009 Kingspan were also managing their debtors days more efficiently than that of 2010. This may be due to the down turn in the economy and to make sales they could have offered longer repayment options. If needed Kingspan could renegotiate the terms or offer discounts for early payment. 6. 5Reducing stock levels By reducing the number of days stock is held will save on holding costs such as security, light, heat, warehousing and staff it will also reduce the risk of spoiling or obsolete goods. Kingspan have managed to reduce their stock turnover days to 51 days compared to 60 days the previous year. 7. Conclusion Overall Kingspan is performing better in 2010 than compared to 2009. The sources of finance are working well for the company, they have a low gearing ratio and have moved funds between long and short term borrowing taking advantage of a lower interest rate. They are managing their creditor, debtor and stock turnover days more efficiently than in 2009. They are leasing or using hire purchase to obtain assets this giving Kingspan the use of equipment without a large initial cost. Given the industry and the economic climate in 2010 Kingspan shows to be a liquid company and shows confidence in future earnings. ? 7. Appendices 7. 1Appendix 1 Workings (W1)Capital Employed20102009 Share Capital Reserves666,945585,535 Long Term Debt213,671201,141 882,626786,676 (W2)20102009 Current Assets471,193398,212 Closing Inventory-129,035-110,821 342,158287,391 (W3) Credit Purchases20102009 Closing Stock129,035816,610 Cost of Sales859,521110,821 Opening Stock-110,821-157,760 Purchases877,735769,671 (W4)Average Inventory20102009 Opening Stock110,821157,760 Closing Stock129,035110,821 Total Stock239,856268,581 ? 2119,928134,291 ? 7. 2Appendix 2 Share prices for Kingspan Fig 1. 2009 share price as of 31/12/2009 Fig2. 2010 share price as of 31/12/2010 http://www. kingspan. com/kingspangroup/investors/share_info/share_chart/ How to cite Financial Management and Control – Kingspan, Essay examples

Challenging My Beliefs Essay Example For Students

Challenging My Beliefs Essay I am not a competition dancer. They spend at least fifteen hours a week in the studio pushing to do five pirouettes into a back illusion into a tilt, all perfectly in sync. The focus is winning, and they strive to learn combinations as quickly as possible. At my studio, we study the art of dance. While we learn the same tricks as competition dancers, impressive leaps and turns arent the focuses of our end-of-year performance pieces. Even in my advanced jazz class, there is no requirement to master tricks. It is an individual learning process and everyone has their own limits. Our teachers emphasize dance as a storytelling medium, to engage audience members and affect them in deeply personal ways. When I attended the 2013 Maryland Council for Dance, I took a class called Jumps Trix and Turns taught by a petite dancer with unbelievable core control. I grimaced at the combination she gave us, knowing from past experience that I could not do a triple pirouette turning three times in a row on one set of toes with the other leg bent at the knee. I had been trying to master it for several years and every time, I had fallen off my leg before finishing. I sighed and told myself to try my best, but I knew I wouldnt be able to pull it off. The competition dancers, on the other hand, nodded confidently as though they had been doing triples since they could walk. As the other dancers lined up in the front and took their turns, they displayed horribly flexed feet and warped alignment even as they were inexplicably turning beyond triples. These were the flaws that I had worked for years to fix. Everything that would prevent me from turning ran through my head at once leaning back, the pass at the ankle instead of at the knee, flimsy arms, poor spotting all things that I knew I had problems with, and could fix. Wow, I thought. They can pull off those turns without technique on their side. What could I, with my strong foundation, do? I had never done more than a double pirouette in jazz class, but I realized that fear of failure may have been the only thing holding me back. With technique, it was not impossible for me; it just had never been done. It was time to challenge my own irrational conviction that my skill had plateaued. When it was my turn, I carefully set up my preparation: feet pointed, legs straight, arms stable, and torso stacked. I took a deep breath, remembered all my fixable technique problems, did a pas de bourre to prepare, and despite the unforgiving high school gym floor, I pulled off my very first triple pirouette. I smiled, nodding confidently as though I had been doing triples since I could walk. When I attended modern class a few days later, the fear was gone, and dedication had taken its place. The week before, I didnt know if I could pull off the combinations harder sections, so I played it safe and didnt put all my effort into it. But the Wednesday after Maryland Council, as I was performing in a group for the class, I remembered conquering my triple pirouette and the six years of technique ingrained in my body, and I shot energy out of every extended limb and finger to perfectly suspend a perpendicular Horton tilt.

Virtu And Fortuna Essay Example For Students

Virtu And Fortuna Essay Virtu and FortunaUnder close scrutiny, The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli is seen to be a mind-baffling construct of many levels of meaning, and, many might say, enigmatically so. It is hard to determine where Machiavelli is writing in earnest and where in sarcasm or self-condemnation. As John Plamenatz says, the perverse Machiavelli likes to make himself out worse than he is. He likes at times to shock his contemporaries No doubt he succeeds. The important message here, though, is that the reader can never be positive of Machiavellis real views. The same is true in considering the significance of the terms virtu and fortuna (and their several translations), so often used by Machiavelli to drive home his points. But by looking at many possibilities for their frequent and seemingly suggestive usages, and at some of the ancient thought with which Machiavelli was supremely familiar, we can arrive at a satisfactory speculation, we can discuss the web weaved by Machiavelli in his profes!si ons. We will write a custom essay on Virtu And Fortuna specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now The first, most obvious purpose of The Prince is stated by the author himself, addressing Lorenzo de Medici:If you will read over and study it carefully, you will recognize in it my most earnest desire that you may achieve that summit of grandeur to which your happy destiny and your other capacities predestine you. And if from that summit Your Magnificence will occasionally glance down at these humble places, you will recognize how unjustly I suffer the bitter and sustained malignity of fortune. Clearly there is a sizeable amount of cajolery occurring here (and also foreshadows the following discussion of fortune and virtue), and this same stroking of Lorenzos ego continues through the book, with slight references to how fit to rule this prince is, how virtuous, how fated to be the incredible Prince for whom Machiavelli writes. It could easily be said that with this book the author may have trying to ingratiate himself to all the local nobility; on the other hand, knowing what follows might also suggest that Machiavelli was really attempting to play off the nobilitys fears of chaos and insecurity, guaranteeing safety if they read his short piece. The second possible purposedefinitely an outcomeis the creation of a learned historical discourse. I will leave out examples; it suffices to say that The Prince encompasses many centuries of human history, many deeply researched examples of politico-military events, and so on. True, they serve enforce his ideas on virtuous government, but they also seve the modern historian in his search for original sources. A third possible purpose of The Prince might be to outline the ideal government or, if not the ideal, the most virtuous or the best possible. It is in this purpose, the same goal pursued by countless political thinkers in history, that we extract much of what the current age considers Machiavellian. The lord most would consider ruthless and cold, but whom Machiavelli names a virtuoso, is but one (probably Cesare Borgia, son of Sixtus IV) character in the book. The authors supposedly cruel way of equating bad with good is traditionally what has gotten him into hot water. The fact is, however, that Machiavelli never truly addresses the issues of bad and good, right and wrong, these absolute judgments most people would, I think, claim him to make. Machiavelli, in laying out the best government, does so from a completely political and pragmatic point of view, by what works, what is possible, and, really, what for his prince results in the most power and security. The auth!or carries out this investigation using two parameters in particular, the Italian virtu and fortuna. They can be translated in many ways (Robert M. Adams has done it very nicley so I shall not repeat them here) which is part of what gives the book its depth. In general, though, the spirit Machiavelli attaches to these two crucial words resembles the following. Virtu embodies a paragon or paradigm; the virtuous man takes action, he anticipates and exhibits resolve, shrewdness and aptitude. Above all, he commits himself to politically sound, whole-hearted efforts. Politics here reign supreme; while he does acknowledge that there are ideals in the world, he asserts that it is futile to discuss them because in real-world situations they are never applied. Only what is practical, what is tangible and realthese are his subjects. .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .postImageUrl , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:hover , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:visited , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:active { border:0!important; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:active , .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u157ead4eca3b09b8ca1a62256d36711e:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Diabetes EssayVirtuous action, Machiavelli implies, is directly opposed to fortuna, which can be translated as luck, destiny and of course fortune. To Machiavelli, fortuna always exists in our lives as a constant yet changing force. It governs our actionslest we apply virtu. The influence of fortuna comes through passivity, like the current in a river. It is surmountable, but can always affect us. The meat of Machiavellis ideas arise from a number of ideas about government. The application of virtu by any leaderany princepresents the road to political health; a strong active ruler who is deft and crafty will probably, according to Machiavelli, always gain a respectable amount of power. And by doing so will be circumventing fortuna as well. Other virtuous actions include obtaining the support of the people, but perhaps through swift brutality, raising a military to defend oneself and live in whatever land you have conquered. It is germaine here to bring up the ancient thinker Plato. In the Republic, Plato outlines many ideas which parallel Machiavellis. Both support this converted form of fascism, a celebration of governing power. Plato advocates a true aristocracy, or rule by the best philosopher-kings, and Machiavelli essentially advocates rule by the best manbest as evidenced by who can get to the top. Both agreee on the idea of the Noble Lie, or lie told by the leader to the believing masses for their own good. As there is a definite separation in Platos thought between the classes of society, so does Machiavelli advocate a definite division. And as Plato asserts the tripartite soul with distinct separations (both in the individual and the society), so does Machiavelli assert, in my own words, the separation of the prince into three certain realms: the person (of the prince), his persona, and his policy. (The first holds the actual character, personality, beliefs of the prince;!the second, how his su bjects see him as; the third, what is accepted to be his official consequences for certain bad acts performed.)These latter points bring up the fact that virtu and fortuna can certainly apply to Man in general. One of Machiavellis ultimate statements thus is that men and women are inherently political animals, not necessarily adhering to standards of good and evil, right and wrong, but apparently doing so because it is convenient. When, say in the case of a prince, it becomes necessary to step outside the regular life of Man functioning and into the unusual life of Man governing, these standards become truly meaningless, and only practicalities and realities remain; all idealized systems become burdensome at best. It might be good to note the slightly chauvanistic temper to The Prince. It appeals to the male; it definitely would have appealed to Lorenzo, who may have been anxious to posit his masculinity. So Machiavelli equates his prescriptions with such. First, in Italian, virtu is masculine and fortuna is feminine. Thus opportunities are represented as female, and action as male. Aditionally (and this comes straight from the Republic; the idea of a coupling, a marriage, inherent both in Platos words and his way of presenting the ideal society, which exits between the governor and the governed), there are the gender assignments female and male to the people and prince, respectively. As well, Machiavelli presents the people waiting to be ruled as material, and the rule spread by the prince as structure; in Renaissance Italy, material and structure possessed traditional gender traits. What we get from all of this is that, to Lorenzo, in order to assert his masculinity and se!ize fate (fortuna) by the throat (we are reminded of Machiavellis comment that, since it is a Woman, Fortune must be beaten into submissionshe will appreciate the one beats her all the more!), he must obey Machiavelli. .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .postImageUrl , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:hover , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:visited , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:active { border:0!important; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:active , .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ude8c3b1a2d7c5848eaa98ed84c4806af:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Reconstruction EssayNow, historically, Machiavelli lived in and lived for his beloved republic of Florence his whole life. It was only in 1512 when France, to whom Florence had professed the traditional allegiance, left Italy and Spain reentered that the republic was totally lost, and Machiavelli expelled to the country by the incoming Medici, and Machiavelli wrote The Prince while in exile. I believe that he really wished Lorenzo to treat Florence with great carehis dear homeand wrote his book to persuade Lorenzo to do just that. We are reminded of Machiavellis frequent comment that the prince MUST gain the favor of the people, that he should raise an army of those he jus t conquered to induce the feeling of membership in a group, that he should entertain the people and reward them for good things done, that a new prince should not touch the women or any property or local customs. And, of course, most frequent of all was Machiavellis emphatic comment that a new prince could only manage !to survive in a newly conquered republic by living in it, among his new subjects. This is so importantand virtuousbecause it would keep the prince from fouling his residence (and thus from fouling Florence) and it would tend to make him a Florentine, the best thing for a prince of Florence to be. In the final analysis, virtu and fortuna come screaming out from the pages of The Prince itself. Indeed, Machiavelli is subscribing to his own prescription. It is finally Machiavelli who is being political with Lorenzo, it is Machiavelli who is taking action and trying to influence both his new prince AND fortuna. He is taking a stand against destiny by manipulating the world, by trying to convince Lorenzofor the sake of both masculinity and personal virtuethat the best, the cruelest prince is the kindest one. Machiavellis own virtu clashing with his fortuna are what have produced the immortal Prince; it is only fitting that these ideas also fill its pages.

Oedipus Tyrannus

Oedipus Tyrannus Introduction Oedipus Tyrannus is one of Sophocles’ masterpieces. This play brings into action different historical issues that are pertinent in contemporary world. Written between 428 and 425 B.C, Oedipus Tyrannus remains all time favorite play. Sophocles explores â€Å"how it is to be a human and live in a world that does not bend itself to support humanity† (Meineck Woodruff 10). Sophocles addresses historical issues like oracles and divination and Greek religion among others.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Oedipus Tyrannus specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More These plays were part of Greek religion; actually, it was a form of worship where they worshiped, Dionysus, a seditious revelry god who lived in the wilderness. According to Meineck and Woodruff, amongst Greek people, divination and oracles served as the only form of revelation, no priesthood, sacred books, theology, or founders, only seers and or acles (13). Delphi; being the most sanctimonious place in Greece, gave the final word on every matter and all people had to respect its oracle. Oedipus Tyrannus expounds on these works in a colorful event dealing with society issues like murder, rape, marriage, family, leadership, and divinity among others. Importance of the Story Though written many years ago, Oedipus Tyrannus addresses important issues that affected people during those times. Interestingly, the same issues appear to be affecting people in the contemporary world. This fact solidifies the common adage that, ‘the more things change, the more they remain the same.’ It is amazing that the issues that rocked the newly civilized society are still pertinent in a fast moving world where civilization has hit climax. The main character here, Oedipus, is acting like most of our leaders in modern times, confident, heroic, saying one thing and doing the other coupled with deliberate denial of the truth even when al l evidence is available. This play is important because it handles issues that are happening in our society today. Oedipus appears as a hero especially at the beginning of the play where he solves the Sphinx’s enigma. It takes a lot of confidence to engage in a dangerous activity that Oedipus engages in. He offers to give Sphinx an answer although he knows a wrong answer would lead to death. After this incidence of freeing people from the wrath of Sphinx, Oedipus becomes popular and garners massive following due to his intelligence and bravery. This phenomenon is common in modern world where a single act of boldness and bravery will lift someone to stardom.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The first person to hail Oedipus is a temple priest who says, â€Å"You freed us from the Sphinx, you came to Thebes and cut us loose from the bloody tribute we had paid that h arsh, brutal singer.   We taught you nothing, no skill, no extra knowledge, still you triumphed (Sophocles 44-47). According to the people of this city, nothing short of god’s gift would deliver them from the hands of Sphinx. This blessing came through Oedipus. Unfortunately, once the Thebans start to idolize Oedipus, he assumes powers that are not his. It is interesting how people are hungry for power and recognition, and the things they will do once they gain all that they have been wanting all along. Oedipus assumes powers of gods. Instead of people praying to their gods, he offers to answer their prayers. He says, â€Å"You pray to the gods? Let me grant your prayers† (Sophocles 245). This is ridiculous. Maybe out of gullibility and hypnotization, people start offering their prayers to Oedipus. This is because their gods does not seem to answer their prayers anymore. It is easy for people to be lured away from what they believe and what they have cherished for lo ng. As aforementioned, though written in many years ago, this play is of great significance in the contemporary world. Day after the other, people are becoming followers of new sects that they do not really understand. Not because they did not have beliefs and religions hitherto, they are simply hypnotized. Nevertheless, Oedipus’ popularity begins to take a nosedive as the reality of Laius’ death starts to set in. At this point, the vehement denial of truth sets in. leadership without honesty cannot stand. Oedipus becomes a tyrant for he cannot swallow the truth that he killed Laius. As Locasta recounts the events that preceded her husband’s murder, it becomes clear to Oedipus that he is the subject in this case. Suspicion plunges him and absentmindedly says, â€Å"Strange, hearing you just now . my mind wandered, my thoughts racing back and forth (Sophocles 800-02). People cannot just accept the truth; however, they will always look for scapegoats and point fi ngers to others. What happened to owning up mistakes and taking responsibility? Oedipus is not different, despite the mounting pressure he continues to carry out investigations to what he already know. In a typical way of people in modern world, Oedipus goes on to question the credibility of the Oracle. Just like people nowadays, they want to challenge every ruling to satiate their selfish ambitions.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Oedipus Tyrannus specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More After Tiresias implicates Oedipus in the murder of Laius, Oedipus becomes offensive and he actually infers that Tiresias is the murderer. He says, â€Å"You helped hatch the plot; you did the work, yes, short of killing him with your own hands . (Sophocles 394-96). Dying of suppressed guilt, he extends the blame to Creon and accuses him of treason and conspiracy. He says, â€Å"I see it all, the marauding thief himself scheming to steal my crown and power! (Sophocles 597-98). Talk of assassinating the messenger with a complete disregard of the message. Man is known to deny the facts. This paper aforementioned that, interestingly, the things that were pertinent in society many years ago, they remain the same even to date. Citizens and leaders alike do not want to come out and accept the truth. Selfish ambitions are the rule of the day and no one is ready to take responsibility of his or her actions. It appears that Oedipus set the pace, and we have followed his footsteps so faithfully. At this point Oedipus cannot be contained. He acts with complete disregard of divinity, by spiting a prophet and even igniting the ire of gods. This wrath is inevitable as we find out in the chorus that, â€Å"But if any man comes striding, high and mighty, in all he says and does, no fear of justice, no reverence for the temples of the gods-let a rough doom tear him down, repay his pride, breakneck, ruinous pride! (Sophocles 972-77) . This tyrant behavior is typical in modern society. People choose leaders to be a blessing to them only to be a curse. Our leaders go to the people, beg for votes, and get that highest seat in the land, and turn out to be tyrants once seated in the throne of powers. Think of Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. The only thing the people of Thebes could show after Oedipus reign is wrath from their gods. Similarly, the only thing the people of Zimbabwe can show after many years of poor governance by one of their elected leaders is a wretched economy. Lastly comes the payday. Oedipus has to pay for all his sins and face humiliation in front of the very people he ignored with contempt. He admits his mistakes by saying, â€Å"I stand revealed at last-cursed in my birth, cursed in marriage, cursed in the lives I cut down with these hands! (Sophocles 1309-11).Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More On top of this, he gouges out his eyes but moves quickly to justify his actions, â€Å"What good were eyes to me? Nothing I could see could bring me joy (Sophocles 1473-74). Truth has a way of finding ‘her’ way home. No matter how hard we try to cover the truth, nature has a way of bringing our deeds to light. This is a fact that Oedipus came to learn, unfortunately, it was a belated bitter lesson. When people reach this point of life where they realize everything is vanity, they become remorseful. Oedipus did not miss in this common arena and he concludes by saying, â€Å"Oh no, what can I say to him? How can I ever hope to win his trust? I wronged him so, just now, in every way. You must see that-I was so wrong, so wrong (Sophocles 1554-57). He regrets how contemptuous he acted towards Creon. This is a typical ending of many people in our times. People have risen to stardom only to come down crumpling as we watch. Apart from the significance of this play in contempo rary world, it plays a crucial role in Greece’s history. This play reflects greatly the character of Athenians rulers; who were diligent, brave, and daring on one side, while arrogant and contemptuous on the other side (Silverman para. 6). These leaders defended their territories but they could not defend themselves as individuals, just like Oedipus. Moreover, Athenians struggled with religious issues and this play highlights all these. Lastly, this play expounds on human suffering that, sometimes people get what they deserve while at other times they endure the most of fate. Conclusion Sophocles knew exactly what he was writing when he compiled the play Oedipus Tyrannus. This play is a true reflection of what people go through. Oedipus is an epitome of modern day leaders who start their leadership reigns in style only to turn tyrannies and come to humbling ends. The place of this play in today’s society is important and it is amazing how humanity has not changed afte r many years of civilization. Issues to do with divinity were critical in Greece during the times of Oedipus and they still weigh heavily on society today. There has been a deliberate shying away from and denial of the truth; a fact highlighted strongly in this play. People have continually neglected the truth, choosing to pursue what seems right in their own eyes regardless of criticism that may be surrounding them. Finally, this play emphasizes on historical issues in Greece’s history like nature of leaders, religion, and human suffering. Oedipus Tyrannus is an educative and entertaining masterpiece that cannot afford to take a backseat in today’s literature. Meineck, Peter, Woodruff, Peter. â€Å"Oedipus Tyrannus.† Indianapolis: Hackett Pub. Company, Inc. 2000. Silverman, David. â€Å"Sophocles’ Oedipus Tyrannus.† 1995. Web. Sophocles. â€Å"The Oedipus Tyrannus with English Notes.† Crosby, Howard. Ed. New York: D. Appleton Company. 18 57

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