Down Syndrome Represented in the Society Essay Example

Down Syndrome Represented in the Society Paper Down syndrome is caused by the presence of extra genetic material from the 21st chromosome. Approximately, majority of the individuals with Down syndrome have an extra 21st chromosome and are identified as having â€Å"trisomy 21† subtype. Individuals with Down syndrome often suffer from moderate to severe mental retardation, show expressive language delays with relative strengths in pragmatical versus grammatical language abilities, and exhibit relative strengths in visual over auditory/ verbal memory. Down syndrome is associated with a greater risk of developing a range of serious health problems, such as hearing deficits, heart defects, leukemia, hypothyroidism, and gastrointestinal disorders. In reality, in the 1990s, the developmental outcome of children with Down syndrome has greatly improved because of early learning programs, physician and parent updated education about the syndrome, and appropriate medical management. According to factual evidences, intelligence and personality in a child with Down syndrome are affected by dedicated parents just as they are in non-Down syndrome children. Down syndrome patients are most of the time implied as defectives of the society to the point that they are even hindered from the basic human rights, such as detainment, physical abuse, and other sorts of violence. As their numbers continue to grow in the society, various conceptual frameworks, and theoretical perspectives have sprouted in aid to promote acceptance of these individuals. However, representations of these Down syndrome patients still vary as influenced by social and cultural factors. Scope and Limitations We will write a custom essay sample on Down Syndrome Represented in the Society specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Down Syndrome Represented in the Society specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Down Syndrome Represented in the Society specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The study aims to illustrate the occurring trend of societal representations of the conditions of Down syndrome. The perspective of society over these individuals as well as the prevalent view, either discriminative of receptive, shall be covered in the course discussion. The study shall employ statistic counts of Down syndrome specifically in the United States, which is the primary scope of setting. In addition, the study aims to utilize the conceptual frameworks applied in the course discussion of the said condition. Applying models shall be the prime method of depiction on how society views these individuals. Various standard norms and prevailing cultural etiologies shall be utilized as well in order to validate the claimed results of the research. The following shall be the objectives utilized in the overall research course. These shall serve as the prime guidelines for the conduction of the whole research plan. a. To be able to provide social representations of Down syndrome patients prevailing in the society through the use of theoretical models. b. To be able to compare and contrast the view of the society against this condition through the use of governing norms and perspectives in the society. Purpose of the Study Significantly, the study provides awareness expansion in terms of the society’s perception over Down syndrome patients. By knowing the established perception of the current prevailing norms of the society against this condition, it facilitates ease in developing health promotive, and organizational programs in aid of this condition. In addition, awareness of such subject induces an initiative to help improve the quality of life for these individuals. Discussion Down syndrome is the most prevalent chromosome-related disorders, which is often suspected after birth due to the physical appearance of the baby. As noted in the latter statement, the presence of an extra chromosome 21 in either the sperm or the egg cell causes the condition of Down syndrome. Chromosome 21 us the smallest of the human chromosomes and contains about 255 genes. The majority of children with Down syndrome, which is around 95%, possess trisomy 21- an extra chromosome in all their cells. Other individuals, which are around 3-4%, possess translocated form of the extra chromosome wherein the extra chromosome 21 is attached to one of a different chromosome pair, and last among the types is 1-2% mosaic, which pertains to varying count of trisomic cells while others a re normal in structure and characteristics. However, the type of chromosome pattern does not significantly alter the pattern of learning difficulties that usually accompany Down syndrome (Buckley, 2000 p. 9). Children with Down syndrome are born at the same rate to parents of all social and education levels, in all ethnic groups and to parents of all ages. Although the risk of having a child with Down syndrome increases with maternal age, a baby with Down syndrome can be born to a mother of any age (Buckley, 2000 p. 9). However, Down syndrome patients are not entirely bound to live in an abnormal environment in accordant to their condition. In fact, various organization and sectors in society encourage the normal living of these individuals. All children with Down syndrome should stay with the family, and most can be mainstreamed into kindergarten (Cicchetti and Beeghly, 1999 p. 302). It is essential to use measures for Down syndrome to monitor growth and development. In the advent of their maturation and growth, most of these individuals with Down syndrome are able to leave home, work, and form relationships. In fact, some are even noted to have the capacity to handle their own family (Taylor and David, 2005 p. 41) Scientific and medical research on Down syndrome is gaining momentum. Research is continuing on identifying the genes in chromosome 21 that cause the characteristics of Down syndrome. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, it will be possible eventually to improve, correct, and prevent many of the problems associated with Down syndrome. There is hope that in the future, the ongoing research on Down syndrome will lead to development of an intervention and cure (Nielsen, 2002 p. 61). Down Syndrome Statistics Down syndrome was the first intellectual disability described and is the most common genetic form of intellectual disability. Due to its frequency, the general-public is most aware of Down syndrome, and for many, it is the prototypical form of intellectual disability. Approximately 7000 infants are born in the United States each year with Down syndrome. In fact, Down syndrome accounts for approximately one-third of children in special education (Harris, 2005 p. 194). The condition is not attributable to any behavioral activity of the parents or environmental etiologies, although some research on environment counters such statement. The probability that another child with Down syndrome will be born in a subsequent pregnancy is approximately 1%, regardless of maternal age. However, a number of risk factors have been investigated, including geographic location, race, ethnicity, season of birth and environmental hazards; however, none of these have been found relevant to affect the occurrence of the said condition (Harris, 2005 p. 194). The incidence of trisomy 21 correlates strongly with increasing maternal age children of older mothers has much greater risk of having Down syndrome. Up to mid-30s, women have a constant risk of giving birth to a trisomic child of about one per 1000 live births. Incidence then increases sharply to 1 in 30 at age 45 years (Jobling, 2006). The estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 in 800-1,200 live births. The risk of a mother having a second child with Down syndrome is 1% regardless of maternal age, unless the syndrome is associated with translocation of chromosome 21 (Rubin and Strayer, 2007 p. 190). Medical Model- Genetic Testing and Perspectives In general, Down syndrome samples and normal or other mentally retarded groups of similar mental or chronological age have been compared at a single point in time. Medical practitioner perceives the condition more of a genetic disorder than a pathological disease. Guided by the principle of naturalism and existence, the health care practitioners further view the person with Down syndrome in a biological means rather than the sociological and physical morphology in order to deliver the rightful care (Rogers and Coleman, 2002 p. 8). To some point of logic, these practitioners possess the capacity to analyze and predetermine the conditions of these individuals. Most often than not, medical field comprehends the totality of the Down syndrome’s behavior, attitude and perception towards their environment. However, the burden takes in since, the actual condition still possess no cure, but only therapeutic procedurals and pharmacologic therapy for symptoms. In addition, genetic preview is the prime intervention that they can do in order to prevent further progression of the condition, or the conception itself. Genetic tests involve laboratory analyses of chromosomes, genes, or gene products (enzymes of proteins) to detect a gene alteration that can be the etiological agent or is likely to induce a specific genetic disorder or condition. Genetic testing can be DNA- or RNA-based, chromosomal, or biochemical in nature and procedurals, which possess various advantage and disadvantages. Genetic tests are currently used to predict risk of disease, to screen newborns for genetic conditions, to screen pregnant women for risk of genetic conditions, fore prenatal or clinical diagnoses or prognoses, and to direct clinical care. The procedures of chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis are the primary genetic testing involved in the detection of Down syndrome (Jenkins and Lea, 2004 p. 75). Parental and Public Model: Perspective of Parents and Community One of the impending fears of the parents, especially the conceiving mothers, is to have their child born with abnormalities and conditions, especially those genetic in nature that usually possess no direct treatment. The anxiety that occurs to the parents is usually the conceptual urge that they might not be able to acquire a normal family with an abnormal condition of their child, such as those with Down syndrome (Harris, 2005 p. 194). The condition is permanent and, most likely, gradually modifiable accompanied by costly therapies and treatments. Such condition is very much frustrating and disappointing especially for the parents. Most often than not, families with Down syndrome patients view their child as an inactive, unproductive, and to the point of insignificance. In fact, they nurse and nurture the child until they serve their burden character in the family, which triggers further depression, anxiety and frustration among these parents. In addition, the fear of having another child or future conceptions may be affected if a Down syndromic child has been born in their lineage. The family expansion tends to be withdrawn and halted, or to the point of family breakdown (Place, 2007). However, such perception is not considered to be the overall established mechanism of Down syndrome child management in the family. Other informed and educated families, despite of their child’s condition, even enhances their child’s development, nurture the fad in which they are in, enhances social interaction, and further development (Harris, 2005 p. 194; Place, 2007). Although, some point of these procedures require costly services especially for special child care and affiliations to such institutions. Model Applications: Societal Perception towards the Condition Behaviorism, humanism, and sociological labeling are some of the theoretical concepts that govern the attitude of community over these individuals. As the condition of Down syndrome progresses, the impact of various historical evolutions on the disease progression has greatly influenced the society’s perception over these individuals. In the past, the occurrence of these conditions had been attributed to Mongolian–like appearance; hence, connoted as mongoloids (Rogers and Coleman, 2002 p. 8). However, this notion did not remain in the society, and soon after, it was also discarded. Behaviorism Theoretical Model Behaviorism is the theoretical concept that mainly focuses on behavioral patterns, motives, and actions of individuals towards other subjects. The concept played a major explanation for the occurrence of such community perception towards Down syndrome patients. The focus is on specific behavior, and the orientation is very much on the here and now. The basic principle underlying behaviorism is that all behavior is learned (Vito etal, 2007 p. 115). The fundamental behaviors are learned by operant conditioning and by imitation of other’s behavior. The condition of the learned behavior is strengthened by reward and avoidance of punishment or weakened by lack of reward and aversive stimuli. Whether a given behavior pattern persists depends on the differential reinforcement – the rewards and punishments attached to that behavior and the rewards and punishments attached to alternative behavior. In the past, children with the condition have experienced tremendous discrimination from their community. They have experienced social isolation due to the conditions of insurgence in behavior similarities. Community inscribed the conditions of these individuals as abnormals in the society; hence, validated by behavioral negativism, the abnormality viewed by the community has caused them to be discriminated (Harris, 2005 p. 194). However, such discrimination has been validated by the research conducted by Kliewer (1998) wherein literary discriminative behavior was proven if rightful or appropriate response towards such individuals. The methodology includes 10 students with Down syndrome that were examined for two annual periods. During the course of 2 school years, the research conducted tape-records of 45 observations and 12 interviews that resulted in 1,300 pages of field notes. The research reveled that the actual progression of condition does not affect the literary capacity of the individuals. In fact, the students have evidently manifested communicative directives over literary needs. Although, the researched behavior of these individuals have been validated to possess lesser response towards isolation (Kliewer, 1998). The unproductiveness and inactive character of Down syndrome patients have established the behavioral discriminative approach of the community towards these individuals. By the principle of operant conditioning, the community has instilled to their minds that such individuals are burdens of their families and of the society; hence, they are discriminated and not provided with equal rights. Humanism Theoretical Model Meanwhile, as the conceptual framework of humanism converges with the view of humanitarian help over such in-need individuals. The concept that prevails in Humanism is the value of human life itself, regardless of the person’s outward or inward status in terms of disease, financial nature, etc. As for this theoretical model, it depicts the equal rights of individuals to be imposed since, human beings are supposed to be valued above all else. The essential core of social environment should disregard the impairments of such individuals, and perceived them with equal view (Buckley, 2000 p. 9). The research of Appl (1998) has tried to validate possible benefits of Down syndrome in the enhancement of their societal relationships through adult-child interactions. The participants of the research include 26 families that possess at least one or more children with Down syndrome have been analyzed in a 10 years observation. The research has established inclusive criteria that require a family of complete members, particularly the parents, child’s age ranging from 7 to 15 years old, and validated assessment of capacity to properly deliver care for the individuals with Down syndrome. Meanwhile, the research also monitors the condition of 26 individuals with Down syndrome present in the orphanages with same age criterion to test any possible differences during span of growth. The methodology involves quarterly assessment of both mental, physical, and emotional stabilities of the subjects involved. Results revealed insignificant variations over the first 3 years; however, as the time pass by, behavioral changes and cognitive comprehension had increased on those individuals living in families. Such claim was validated through the use of paper and pencil exam that depicts simple picture identification tests, which revealed higher results ranging from an average score of 15 pts. out 20 pts. to perfect score. The score rating of family groups ranges from 14 pts. to 20 pts. with majority’s score of 17 pts. , while family groups of Down syndrome in orphanages revealed 9-13 pts. with 11pts. as the most predominant (Appl, 1998). Social Construction Theoretical Model Social model views disability as the result of a dynamic process involving complex interactions among biologic, behavioral, psychologic, social and environmental factors. The social model enables people with disabilities to look at themselves in a more positive way, which increases their self-esteem and independence. In addition, the model also advocates looking beyond a person’s impairment and functional limitation to all and equal participant in society (Brown et al. , 2006 p. 462). The model has been tested by the experiment of Gloria (2001) in the school setting in terms of Down syndrome children’s capacity to perform well in normal education firms. As opposed to the sociological labels implicated by the society over these individuals in terms of literary competence, and cognitive capacities most evidently in the past was validated by research of Gloria (2001). The procedure was supported by National Down Syndrome Society through the provision of list of affiliates all over United States as well as Puerto Rico. A total of 250 questionnaires were sent to those parents with and without child/children with Down syndrome that participated in the research. The design of the questionnaire contained four levels of questioning: 1) background experience of the teacher, including amount of teaching experience, knowledge of special education, and knowledge/attitude toward inclusion; 2) teacher preparation for inclusion by the district and/or parent, and the transition process of the student; 3) classroom information on curriculum used, class arrangement for instruction, and maintenance of therapies and support services; and 4) classroom management issues, including instructional and behavioral management strategies. The objective was to determine the methods that general educators felt effective or otherwise with the inclusion of children with Down syndrome in their general education classes. In addition, the survey aims to evaluate the education standards provided by the academic groups among Down syndrome patients, and consequent response (Gloria, 2001). The results of the surveys revealed that Down syndrome patients still posses the capacity to enter general educational firm (Gloria, 2001); hence, validating their capacity to outlive the discriminations implicated to them by the society. Such individuals still possess the capacity to enter and conform to human societal standards provided with proper, extensive and appropriate guidelines of modifications (Jobling, 2006). As with the research conducted, Down syndrome individuals may still possess the capacity to outlive their condition and live their life normally. The advantage of such model is the provision of probable humanitarian approach of equity towards these individuals. However, with the dynamic progression and varying capacity of Down syndrome individuals may compromise the claims of norm capacity, which is the prime disadvantage of the theoretical application. Further validation and research that conjure positive and similar results may prove the claims and validate the implicated statement. Summary and Conclusions As for the research arguments proposed in the study, the discriminative outlook of the society over these individuals is evidently negated. Down syndrome patients may possess actual evidence of defect yet the capacity to outlive and improve is still present among these individuals provided that proper guidance, upbringing, environment, and appropriate personnel are present in their social circle. As the behaviorist implies, the differentiation of the trisomic features and behavior have left these individuals discriminated, has been proven irrational in this research. The social label that such individuals are poor in cognition and developmental capacities has been negated by the humanistic approach of validation, which proves that enhancement and development among these individuals are still possible. References Appl, D. J. (1998, September 2). Children with Down Syndrome: implications for adult-child interactions in inclusive settings.. Journal of Research in Childhood Education , 64, 443-451. Reviews research on children with Down Syndrome, highlighting physical, medical, intellectual, language, and behavioral characteristics that provide valuable information for caregivers and teachers in planning and intervention. Reviews research on parent-child interactions, providing guidelines for caregivers and teachers working in inclusive settings. Suggests that interactions and environments must be adjusted to support the uniqueness of each child. Brown etal, S. P. (2006). Exercise Physiology: Basis of Human Movement in Health and Disease. Lippincott Williams Wilkins. Designed as the principal text for undergraduate courses in exercise physiology and science, this unique and informative text combines general undergraduate material with vital clinical information not found in competing resources. Key content includes detailed coverage of muscle physiology as well as evidence-based clinical information that helps students link theory to practice. Questions and answers help students review core material and reinforce concepts essential to effective practice. Abundant tables, graphs, and full-color illustrations support the text. Buckley, S. (2000). Living with Down Syndrome. The Down Syndrome Educational Trust. Offers a person-focused introduction to Down syndrome. This book explains the effects of Down syndrome on development, stressing that while individuals with Down syndrome do have special needs, they are people first, with the same rights and human needs as everyone else in their communities.

Blooms Major Novelists

Blooms Major Novelists Includes bibliographical references (p. 112-118) and index.Summary A comprehensive research and study guide for several novels by Charles Dickens, including plot summaries, thematic analyses, lists of characters, and critical views.Contents Biography of Charles Dickens [pt. 1]. Plot summary of Great expectations List of characters in Great expectations Critical views on Great expectations: Sylv ©re Monod on the morality of the novel Julian Moynahan on Pip as Dickens's most complex hero Harry Stone on fairy-tale aspects of the novel H.M. Daleski on the use of the first person in the novel A.E. Dyson on Magwitch Q.D. Leavis on guilt and class in the novel John Lucas on Pip as character and Pip as narrator Pearl Chesler Solomon on Dickens and his father Murray Baumgarten on writing and speech in the novel Thomas Loe on the Gothic elements in the novel [pt.Dickens at the Blacking Warehouse. Charles Dickens...2]. Plot summary of Bleak House List of characters in Bleak Hou se Critical views on Bleak House: J. Hillis Miller on the theme of interpretation in the novel Virginia Blain on Esther's "Sexual Taint" Christine Van Boheemen-Saaf on the novel as Victorian family romance Harold Bloom on the novel as canonical Laura Fasick on the diseased body in the novel [pt. 3]. Plot summary of David Copperfield List of characters in David Copperfield Critical views on David Copperfield: Charles Dickens on the novel Mowbray Morris on Dickens's fancy William Samuel Lilly on the sober veracity of the novel Algernon Charles Swinburne on the novel as masterpiece Stanley Friedman on the model for Uriah Heep [pt.3]. Plot summary of A tale of two cities List of characters...

Ecobeach Eco-tourism Operation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Ecobeach Eco-tourism Operation - Essay Example It involves the activities of educating tourists and the provision of funds for the purpose of the environments preservation (Frisch and Johannsen, 2004). The major purpose of carrying out these activities is to aid in the protection of nature and to empower the locals politically. It also assists in fostering the economic growth of a country and the reverence for the different cultures along with the right’s of humans. The major aim of eco tourism is to preserve nature so that the coming generations can enjoy environments that are safe and habitable (Fennel and Dowling, 2003). Tourism on the other hand is the activity of organizing the commercial operation of vocations and places that are of interest to the visitors in an area. Most people view the process of making improvements on the environment as the duty of the local authorities, the nongovernmental organizations dealing in protection of the environment and other profit making organizations dealing with the matter. Eco b eaches are those beaches where environmental protection efforts have been done on them to ensure that nature, the community and the visitors all benefit. 1.1 Background information The importance of ecotourism has been put to consideration by different environmentalists who desire to conserve the environment for the coming generations. Their efforts focus on the charitable sustainability of our surroundings. Tourism entails visiting areas where flowers, fauna and artistic traditions are the major appeals for commercial reasons (Zeppel, 2006). The major goal of this practice is to enhance the tourists views on the impacts of mans activities on his surroundings. It also aids in enabling... The paper tells that the importance of ecotourism has been put to consideration by different environmentalists who desire to conserve the environment for the coming generations. Their efforts focus on the charitable sustainability of our surroundings. Tourism entails visiting areas where flowers, fauna and artistic traditions are the major appeals for commercial reasons. The major goal of this practice is to enhance the tourists views on the impacts of mans activities on his surroundings. It also aids in enabling people to appreciate their natural homes better. Among the activities that these programs carry out aim at reducing the harm tourism causes on the surroundings and enhance the artistic honor of the locals. The international target market of choice for the beach eco tourism operation at Kimberly are visitors from all around the globe. The visitors to the beach all come from different cultures with different convictions, approaches and values to life and nature. The chosen int ernational market requires to be in a safe environment with fresh waters. They also require high quality and safe supplies of the products on offer from the beach resorts they visit. There should be provision of adequate and standard accommodation to handle any number of visitors who decide to visit the beach. Provision of all the adequate amenities in the visitors accommodation areas should be put into consideration before advertising the premises. The wants and needs of the target market should enable the management of the tourist operations to determine what to produce.

Nurse-Led Implementation of an Insulin-Infusion Protocal in a Gender Research Paper

Nurse-Led Implementation of an Insulin-Infusion Protocal in a Gender - Research Paper Example The problem is an important one, as it will avoid the negative effects of hypoglycemia, which is a life threatening problem among ICU patients. Further, the problem has been the center of a contentious issue in ICU care. The problem is clearly depicted and the background information offered, including the case of concerns among doctors and nurses over increased workload due to SGC, and the deaths caused by hypoglycemia. The justification of the study is offered, as evaluating the existing degree of glycaemic control, which will lead to the implementation of an effective nurse-led SGC model. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the existing degree of glycaemic control, leading to the designing of an effective SGC approach, with regard to intensive insulin therapy. The main research question is: Can nurse-led implementation of an insulin-infusion protocol reduce the incidences of hypoglycemia and the workload resulting from a strict SGC model? The hypothesis of the study may be expr essed this way: An informed nurse-led implementation of insulin administration is more effective and safe in reducing adverse conditions like hypoglycemia among ICU patients. ... Finney is also cited, who discussed the adverse effects resulting from hyperglycemia at general intensive care, which pushed doctors to prescribe insulin levels of 4 – 8 for ICU patients through standard infusion. The author included the opposing study of Pittas et al, which showed that ICU patients subjected to insulin therapy were thrice, as likely to develop hypoglycemia as opposed to a control group. Another deviating study is that of Krinsley et al, which showed that hypoglycemia was independently related to mortality in an adult ICU. The literature review is thorough and organized, as it starts with supporting the background of study, to discussing the effects on not implementing the insulin protocol strategy: for instance the study by Krinsley et al, which talks of the relation between hypoglycemia and mortality. A majority of the references are current, thirty of the thirty-three falling between the 5 year bracket (age of source before writing of the health article; 1 falling between 10 year bracket and 2 falling under the more than 10 years bracket. This shows that the study presented information – not more than 10 years old, thus current for usage. The theoretical framework of the study surrounds the evaluation of the existing glycaemic control level and exploring the relationships between a nurse-led implementation of safe SGC approach to insulin therapy and the incidences of hypoglycemia and the workload resulting from SGC. The variables to be measured and the relationships to be explored are clear, thus the theoretical model is clearly explained. The model is also threaded throughout the report, as the discussion

Costa Coffee Marketing Plan for China

Costa Coffee Marketing Plan for China This paper aims at outlining the strategic marketing approach of Costa Coffee for entering a new market . Costa Coffee is the British part or retail sales of Whitbread Family. Whitbread is a British Multinational Company and it has franchises worldwide. Whitbread includes Hotels, Restaurants [Household names like TGI Friday], Health and Fitness plus Other Businesses. The contents of this paper include the marketing strategy of Costa Coffee and its expansion plans in China. Introduction The Story The history of Costa Coffee began in a mountain town outside the region of Parma, where there was the house of Costa family. In the late 60s, the Italian brothers Bruno and Sergio Costa, hungry for success, traveled to England, seeking an opportunity for professional advancement. By arriving there, they found how simple the English coffee market was. Motivated by their Italian background and Sergios skills in the roasting of coffee beans, they decided to return to Milan to enrich their knowledge and technique in Italian coffee shops. In 1971, upon their return to London, they bought a three-story building in Lambeth, where they set up their own coffee shop. In the beginning, the Costa brothers worked as producers and wholesalers and were supplying high-class restaurants and specialty stores. Soon, they built their reputation for their dedication to excellent quality of their product. However, in 1978 they had to find some employment for their wives in order not to interfere in their business. Therefore, they decided to create their first coffee boutique in Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, and assigned its management to their wives. This idea experienced tremendous success, and led the brothers to the expansion of Costa coffee boutiques and award their management to relatives and friends. Since the opening day of the first store to date, the same traditional method of slow roasting (18-22 minutes) of coffee beans is used, offering the delicious and fragrant blend Mocha Italia, from 6 Arabica beans and 1 Robusta. Listen Read phonetically Dictionary View detailed dictionary Today, Costa Coffee owns 500 shops worldwide. Costa Coffee believes in its employees skills therefore, it provides intensive employee training at the Cost Coffee Academy. VISION: Costa Coffee vision is to provide the best hospitality to its customers since its range of hospitality products range includes restaurants, hotels and leisure clubs. MISSION: To serve the best coffee in the true Italian style. BUSINESS PORTFOLIO: Costa Coffee has built an unrivaled reputation for coffee excellence, and this is achieved by fully controlling the process, from harvest and selection of coffee beans, from the roasting of the Italian maestros, the choice of engines and compliance with the procedures of manufacture of beverages, ensuring this way that customers can enjoy the same excellent quality coffee at any of Costa Coffee in the world. The drinks are served in 3 different sizes Primo, Medio and Massimo, and the customer can choose between the unique blend of Mocha Italia, or decaf, whole or skim milk and add an extra dose of espresso, flavored syrup, cream, candy or chocolate. There are 15 factors that are combined and help to create the perfect Costa coffee. In addition, in every store worldwide regular controls take place, which ensure consistency and maintenance of quality. Every Costa Coffee has a Barista Maestro (coffee expert) responsible for maintaining the excellence of the drinks served. COSTA COFFEE AND STARBUCKS: Starbucks is the largest competitor of Costa Coffee. Starbucks is the leader in the coffee shop market. Its international presence is in 50 countries. On the other hand, Costa Coffee, is the third biggest coffee specialist in the market with shops in 25 countries. Both companies have an excellent financial performance up to 2005 but in 2008 there was a decrease in revenue and operating profit as a result of the global economic recession. However, in 2009. Starbucks has an improving in cost structure and therefore its liquidity is better than Costa Coffee since it has managed to pay its short term debts. A key factor for both companies is globalization since most leading players in the foodservice market expand their operations in other countries. So the future success of Costa Coffee will be based on its operations outside the UK. The same applies for Starbucks. . THE CHOICE OF CHINA: China is one of the biggest economic forces in the world. Its domestic market is larger so there is a lot of potential for multinational businesses. Its average GDP growth rate is more than 10% despite the global economic crisis (10.9% last quarter 2009) (BBC China economy 2009). International financial analysts believe that the growth of the Chinese economy will continue. Regarding the coffee industry in China, it should be noticed that competition is quite intense but sales in cafes has grown by 8% to RMB36billion (over  £3,487million). It should also be noticed that in 2009 coffee shops chains had a growth of 22% (Euromonitor International August 2009,Cafà ©s/bars China). However, the Chinese market for many international companies is considered a tough market since it is difficult to understand local culture and customeCNY. Therefore, many companies pursue joint ventures and strategic alliances in order to do business in China. In 1998, Starbucks entered China and it has 180 coffee shops. In 2006, Costa Coffee entered China in a different way i.e. through a joint venture with Yueda Group which is based in Jiangsu Province. This was done because a local partner knows the market better so market penetration for the new entrant is easier. However, this also means that Costa Coffee is heavily dependent on Yueda. Costa Coffee has a strong Italian aura that aims at attracting the Chinese market. Affluent Chinese customers want to taste a coffee that is represented by a global brand name. So far, Starbucks has been quite successful in this area. The risk is that by being a partner with Yueda, the brand will be customized too much therefore, Costa will lose its competitive advantage which is the Italian aura. Starbucks has very aggressive expansion plan in China. The crucial point is if Costa Coffee will maintain its brand essence and will not be customized. In this case, Costa Coffee will be a strong competitor to Starbucks. Future trends Strategy The main issue for chained coffee shops is to create a unique experience that cannot be easily copied. The consumers want to enjoy their coffee in a nice environment. The coffee shop space should be comfortable with an ambiente that will be inviting so the consumers will return to the shop again. People will want to live the espresso experience at home so the sales of equipment and coffee will increase as well as the demand for better and higher quality of coffee and beverages in coffee shops. Corporate social responsibility is another issue that chained coffee shops should take care on. They have to prove that they implement ethical practices. Regarding marketing, researchers predict that chained coffee shops will use mobile apps and have social networking tools in the very near future. COSTA COFFEE Financial Data Turnover:  £263.8m (2008:  £216.3m) Operating profit before exceptional items:  £22.7m (2008:  £20.8m) Number of outlets: 881 in the UK, 407 overseas Total Revenue  £ (m) Strategy Our target for Premier Inn during 2009/10 is to deliver around 2,000 new rooms in the UK and overseas. We have a strong pipeline of secured sites and will continue to develop a land bank. Internationally, our first hotel opened in Dubai during 2008 and we will build on this position, intending to open a further two hotels in the Emirates plus one in India. We plan to open around 100 new Costa outlets in the UK in 2009/10. We will capitalise on our strong Costa brand by focusing on new locations, as well as areas where we can replace existing operators, such as in supermarkets, hospitals and leisure facilities. Costa will also continue to strengthen its position across international markets, adding 100 net new stores in the year ahead. MARKETING OBJECTIVES: Enter Greek market and develop a significant market share; Increase product portfolio by new high caliber products; Bring more value to shareholders; Be a leader in its field for customer service; Develop alliances with commercial partners and the communities in which Costa Coffee shops operate. TARGET MARKET Costa Coffee offers a wide range of products suitable for all consumeCNY. So far, coffee in China is consumed in big cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou). Coffee producers have targeted young professionals since they are the most westernized, affluent and open-minded. However, they see it as something that is in fashion rather than a regular habit. Another target group for coffee consumption are returnees i.e. Chinese that studied in Western countries and come back to China. They are also affluent and they are accustomed to visiting coffee shops. Ex- pats are another target group. Chinas economic growth has attracted a lot of investments from foreign companies. Ex-pats are used to drink coffee and their number increases every year. It has been estimated that businessmen from Hong Kong and Taiwan as well as Westerners amount to 30% of customers at multinational chained coffee shops as Starbucks. The above customer base has been quite saturated so there is a need to increase customer base. However, coffee is considered a luxury good and the average Chinese cannot pay for a cup of coffee. The average Chinese annual income is RMB 8000 yuan whereas a small cup of Starbucks coffee costs RMS 12 yuan ($1.5 which is the same price as in USA). In the big cities the average annual income is higher however it is still difficult for someone to consume a cup of coffee. If coffee still goes on being considered as a luxury good, it will happen the same thing as in Japan i.e. it will take China more than 90 years to make coffee popular. Market Segmentation: Based on the above the following market segments were defined: Young / Mature professionals Returnees Ex-pats Students Middle Class Upper Middle Class Single Married Bus section and train/airplane passengers Marketing Strategy: Costa Coffee will follow Market Development strategy and the reason for choosing this strategy will be explained below: CURRENT NEW PRODUCTS PRODUCTS 1. Market Penetration Strategy 3. Product Development Strategy 2. Market Development Strategy 4. Diversification Strategy CURRENT MARKETS NEW MARKETS   Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Coffee is considered a luxury good. This misperception hinders businesses in identifying customer groups and implement marketing strategies. This misperception also hinders the majority of the population to get acquainted with coffee. The same happened in Japan, where coffee was also considered as a luxury beverage with unreasonably high prices. It has taken almost 90 years for Japan to get acquainted with coffee and still per capita coffee consumption is quite low. This makes things worse since Japan sets the trend for Taiwan and South Korea.   Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬In China coffee shops open every day in cities like Beijing and Shanghai. However, the average Chinese cannot afford a cup of coffee everyday. Multinational coffee companies have faced difficulties in developing the Chinese coffee market. Although they know how to penetrate mature markets but they see that they have difficulty in immature coffee markets. These companies need to understand better China and its people. Without understanding them all marketing campaigns will be in vain. A characteristic example is the marketing campaign of Nestle which was targeting at the young middle class Chinese although in reality this class does not exist or even if it existed they would not be heavy coffee drinkeCNY. Starbucks has increased awareness but it needs a different strategy for the Chinese market. Only KFC has been quiet successful. Starbucks success cannot be considered as sustainable since it was based on management, financial power and brand name whereas the Chinese market needs entrepreneurship to advance it and this is what Costa Coffee is planning to do. Coffee has been promoted by the Chinese government through festivals and fashion awards however these strengthened the misperception of coffee being a luxury good. Local coffee shops add too many side things such as food, spirits etc. Therefore, they dilute the idea of coffee. Coffee is a product that does not hurt health, stimulates the brain and it is addictive. Based on researches someone who has drunk coffee three times a week for two months in the row is addicted to coffee. Brain stimulation is important for personal wealth and intelligence. Coffee became popular because coffee shops were focused at making the customer accustomed with coffee. When people get accustomed then the market develops at an extremely fact pace. The coffee shop is important for this development and a coffee shop can be a seated place or coffee stands and carts. It is important to make people drink coffee and then offer them ground coffee. Many companies have found as an excuse the fact that tea is dominant in China and there is no place for coffee in a tea dominant country. However, there are no major tea companies that can compete international coffee giants nor is there a specific promotion to protect tea. On the contrary local society support the development of coffee houses and it is not negative to coffee. Costa Coffee will focus on making people drink more coffee. Its new coffee shops will be around areas where people gather such as Universities, stations and office buildings etc. This can be the best promotion since if one group of people becomes loyal to coffee then it will influence other consumer groups. Costa Coffee will focus specifically on these people and its promotions will be measurable and specific. Coffee has an unbeatable image in China and it is known to everyone. Costa Coffee will be based on the quick service restaurant (QSR) concept. QSR is based on the idea of offering cheap, clean and good food and its purpose is to sell to a wider range of population. Costa Coffee plans to adopt this concept. Coffee has a high profit margin but food is what attracts people to the coffee shop. Costa Coffee already offers more products than coffee; however it should plan to add more snacks that are better suited to local customers and a cheaper but good quality filter coffee for taking away. Many local Chinese coffee shops offer food however, they have not formulated a strategy so they cannot be considered as potential competitoCNY. So far in these shops the restaurant is separated form the coffee house something that it is not the case of Costa Coffee. In the next two years the aim is to introduce new product lines that will be offered at affordable prices for the average Chinese consume r. It should be noticed that this does not mean price cutting since this will hurt Costa Coffees brand name. The location of the new coffee shops is also an important part of Costa Coffee strategy. Up today, the coffee shops were opened at locations where population is dense and the income is high. As a result, the rental prices are quite high. Therefore, Costa Coffee is planning to open new shops at bus stations and other busy intersections where rents are lower and the traffic is big. The marketing strategy that will be followed to China is important since it influences neighboring states such as South Korea which is also a new coffee consuming country. If the model of highly expensive coffee will be followed then the consequences will be similar to Taiwan and Hong Kong where there is a negative trend in coffee growth. à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚   à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚     Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬ SWOT ANALYSIS: Strengths Weaknesses Established brand name worldwide Expensive prices for the average Chinese consumer Wide range of products Starbucks dominant position in the market Third ranked coffee shop chain in the world Coffee is considered a luxury good Know how of Yuda (local partner) Tea is the daily beverage of the average Chinese Opportunities Threats Big market potential a lot of Chinese Consumers that do not drink coffee Stagnant coffee growth due to high prices Unbeatable image of coffee Possible marketing enforcement of tea companies No competitors are located at bus intersections PESTEL ANALYSIS: Political China has a stable political environment that welcomes foreign direct investments. Economic The Chinese economic growth is impressive (10% per annum). Social Although the income of the average Chinese consumer is low, there is a growing middle class -190 million urban households, or 29%. According to McKinsey, middle class is expected to expand to 75% (372 million), by 2025 (DAltorio 2011). Technological New coffee machines are produced so making coffee at home is easier. Environmental There is a trend in producing organic coffee. Legal There are no legal issues involved. MARKET POSITIONING: The positioning strategy of Costa Coffee will be in line with its international strategy i.e. THE ITALIAN COFFEE MASTERS. The competitive advantage of Costa Coffee is the quality of their coffee. The image of the company is that is has a UNIQUE coffee. Another positioning of Costa Coffee is that this excellent coffee quality can be offered with affordable prices (launch of the new take away filter coffee). THE ITALIAN COFFEE MASTERS This is the tag line that will communicate the Italian aura of Costa Coffee to the mass audience. Since Chinese consumers perceive well the Italian atmosphere it is expected that it will attract more people to Costa Coffee. MARKETING MIX: Product: Brand Name: Costa Coffee is a well established brand that signifies luxury, perfection and excellence. Chinese consumers prefer established brand names. Image/Theme: Luxury Costa Coffee is related to luxury. The coffee shops ambiance is trendy and comfortable. Customers will have a nice time in a flashy environment. However, this luxury image should be cleverly related with the new, affordable, take away filter coffee. The message that will be transmitted is luxury can be affordable and can be taken with you. Color Scheme Costa Coffees shops are in warm tones having brown as the main color. Other colors that are used are green, black and white. The purpose of this color selection is the creation of a comfortable and trendy atmosphere. Service: Apart from coffee, Costa has a reputation of excellent service. Hiring and retaining talented employees and train them accordingly is a strategic goal of the company. Product variety: ESPRESSO A short, strong and black coffee, with no milk. ESPRESSO DOPPIO A double espresso shot. For those who like it strong. RISTRETTO An extra short coffee, even shorter than an espresso, with an even stronger flavour. MACCHIATO Espresso topped with just a dash of milk. Yum. AMERICANO Coffee, mixing shots of espresso with hot water. Add milk if you like. FLAT WHITE A rich, full-flavoured coffee with a velvety, smooth texture. Each Flat White is hand-finished with a distinctive pattern. CAPPUCCINO Coffee combining espresso with steamed, frothy milk. Chocolate on top if you have a sweet tooth. CAFFE LATTE Coffee made with steamed milk. Not as strong as a cappuccino, but just as good. MOCHA Espresso with hot chocolate, topped with steamed, frothed milk. (Source: Costa Coffee 2010) Costa Coffee products variety includes iced tea and coffees as well as cakes, pastries, Panini and sandwiches. Prices: Costa Coffee prices are generally higher than other coffee shops. High prices are related to the outstanding quality and taste of Costa Coffee. Therefore, the traditional customer groups of Costa Coffee are high and middle classes. Costa Coffee believes that a reduction in its prices will harm its brand name. However, it wants to increase its Chinese customer base so it will offer a filter coffee for takeaway at affordable prices. Chinese middle class growth rate is significant, it will reach 372 million by 2025, it is a social class that cannot be neglected. Therefore, Costa Coffee is planning in the next three years to offer its products at affordable prices for the Chinese middle class without harming its brand name. Locale / Setting: The next Costa Coffee shops will be at busy intersections e.g. bus, train stations and at areas where office buildings and Universities are located. It will focus again on the big cities like Shanghai and Beijing. The aim for the next three year is to have 30 new coffee shops at both cities. Promotion: Costa Coffee will not do a lot of advertising since its brand name is recognized. However, there will be special sales promotions at its new shops for the new filter coffee that can be taken away. Costa Coffee is based on word of mouth advertising since reputation is very important. MARKET DEMAND It is important to measure the market before launching new products and shops. It is also important to measure the market after the launch of the new products / shops so as to see their effects and gain a larger market share. Growth Share Matrix There are two factors that are important for the expansion to new markets and these are : market attractiveness and the Business Strength. Market Attractiveness Business Strength Factors Rate Factors Rate Overall Market Size 70% increase (2004-2012) Market Share 5.0 Annual Market Growth Rate 7.8 Product Quality 5 Competitive Intensity 4 Brand Reputation 4.5 Technological Requirements 2.5 Distribution Channel 3.5 Inflationary Vulnerability 4.9 Promotional Effectiveness 4.5 Productive Efficiency 4 Managerial Personnel 3.5 Market Attractiveness As it is seen above, the attractiveness of the Chinese market is very high. The annual growth rate of the coffee market is high. There are no significant technological requirements since Costa Coffee already possesses advanced technology. Inflation is quite high and it seems that it will increase in the near future, however the targeted market groups remain unaffected (growing Chinese middle class). Partnership with Yuda will protect Costa Coffee from any possible dangers. Therefore, the Chinese market is very attractive and suitable for coffee shops expansion. Business Strength Costa Coffee is part of the well-known Whitbread Family. The quality of Costa Coffee is unquestionable. Costa Coffee owns more than 500 stores worldwide. Its outlets are in Europe, UK, Middle East, India, Pakistan and China. In order to maintain its excellent reputation, Costa Coffee will continue its policy of recruiting, training and retaining the best available employees in China. Business Strength High Medium Low High Medium Low Costa Coffees Business Strength is high and the overall position is ideal for further expansion into the Chinese market. Projected Sales in CHINA Costa Coffee projected sales are expected to rise to almost 97% in 2012 and this is due to the launch of the new takeaway filter coffee and the new shops at the busy intersections. This rate is expected to slow down (87%) in 2013 and this is because the one time visitors are expected to cease to visit the coffee shops and the existing customer base is expected to remain. An extensive marketing promotion through emails, customer clubs, social media etc. is expected to increase market share. The above numbers are very impressive and expansion seems ideals. Sales forecasts per customer groups are also very promising.: Market 2012 2013 2014 Total Students Youngsters CNY. 20,000,000 CNY. 23,00,000 CNY.6,300,000 CNY 49,300,000 Ex pats and returnees CNY 7,555,000 CNY 7,000,000 CNY. 12,800,000 CNY. 27,355,000 Families CNY. 9,700,000 CNY. 9,850,000 CNY. 17,200,000 CNY. 36,750,000 Professionals CNY. 17,750,000 CNY. 32,750,000 CNY. 92,000,000 CNY. 142,500,000 Totals CNY. 55,005,000 CNY. 72,600,000 CNY. 128,300,000 CNY. 255,905,000 According to the above table it can be seen that professionals is a group that has a lot of potential. This is because the Chinese middle class is rising and the coffee culture is mounting too. Another reason for the increase in sales in professionals is due to the location of the new coffee shops. There will be located in busy intersections where there are many office buildings. Newspapers and other electronic media have approached Costa Coffee and various interviews and programs have been made which boost Costa Coffees reputation even more. BUDGET FORECASTS: The forecasted budget for the upcoming three years is as follows; TYPE 2012 2013 2014 Total Accommodation CNY. 2,000,000 CNY. 5,000,000 CNY. 7,000,000 Training CNY. 1,500,000 CNY. 500,000 CNY. 4,000,000 CNY. 6,000,000 Transportation CNY. 250,000 CNY. 350,000 CNY. 1,000,000 CNY. 1,600,000 Fixtures CNY. 2,000,000 CNY. 7,000,000 CNY. 9,000,000 Total CNY. 5,750,000 CNY. 850,000 CNY. 17,000,000 CNY. 23,600,000 Future promotion and expansion plans: Costa Coffee will be launching more coffee shops in the major cities of China (Beijing and Shangkai) but the plans are to expand all over China after having created a considerable market share in the above cities. The expansion has been planned for the next year that is 2012. In the next two years the next cities where new coffee shops will be located will include Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Costa Coffee is not in favor of extravagant launching campaigns. It supports the use of electronic and social media as well as corporate social responsibility programmes and actions. It also believes in the right location of its shops. So, the marketing activity will be low except the posters that will be in the shops, as sales promotion, advertising the new takeaway filter coffee. ANALYSIS: Costa Coffee has a lot of potential for further intensifying its expansion efforts in China. It already possesses a significant market share in the Chinese market. The reason behind it is the unbeatable image of Costa Coffee and the advertisement (word of mouth) done by people who have visited its outlets. Sales are expected to rise in the following years and they are expected to rise even more in the forthcoming years since Costa Coffee is focusing on the rising Chinese middle class. Students and youngsters in general set the new trends so their influence in increasing coffee consumption and visiting coffee shops is of outmost importance. By further using social media, Costa Coffee is expected to increase its market share in this group. Professionals always seek quiet place to do their official or unofficial meetings. Costa Coffee is an ideal place to do these meetings. Apart from that, Costa Coffees activation in social media will certainly increase its future revenue. In conclusion, it can be said that Costa Coffee has so far implemented an excellent marketing strategy and the new campaign that it will launch for the takeaway filter coffee as well as the location of its new shops will help it increase its sales and gain sustainable competitive advantage. RECOMMENDATIONS: Sales numbers are very promising however the local partner should follow all the below the line activities mentioned. Costa Coffee should continue with low promotional strategies. Apart from posters inside the outlets, Costa Coffee should consider the use of bill boards at the busy intersections.

Adapting International Accounting Standards Essay -- Accounting Inter

Companies in each country have to adapt and regulate their financial statements to certain requirements. They base and format their accounting standards on their national General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) set by security regulators. However, in this modern globalized era, owing to too many financial differences between nations, it is increasingly difficult for entities to compare their financial records and identify trends in their financial position and performance with their competitors. As an answer to such financial chaos, harmonisation consists of formulating one universal GAAP; accountants worldwide would subsequently be able to use one single standardized practice, which would, according to Weber (1992), improve financial market information, government accountability, facilitate international transactions and minimise exchange costs. However, harmonising standards remains a disputable answer in accounting. This paper will attempt to shed some light on the current debate about the pros and cons of adopting a universal set of accounting standards. International accounting standards are discussed, set and published by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) which was formed in 2001. The International Accounting Standards Committee (IASC) was the predecessor of the IASB; its Foundation is to harmonise all worldwide GAAPs into one single set of accounting standards. According to Mogul (2003), harmonisation is defined as the constant process of ensuring that the GAAP of each country are formulated, aligned and updated to international best practices (GAAPs in other countries) with suitable modifications and fine tuning, considering each domestic condition. Harmonisation is thus wished by any financ... ... issue 7, pp. 975-992 ScienceDirect [Online]. Available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science (Accessed: 03 November 2010) Mogul, S. (2003) Harmonization of Accounting Standards. Available at: http://www.icai.org/resource_file/11430p681-684.pdf (Accessed: 3 November 2010) Blake, J. and Hossain, M. (1996) Readings in International Accounting. London: Routledge. Weber, C.M. (1992) ‘Harmonization of international accounting standards’, The National Public Accountant [Online]. Available at: http://www.allbusiness.com/accounting/methods-standards/339832-1.html (Accessed: 3 November 2010) Wittington, G. (2008) ‘Harmonisation or discord? The critical role of the IASB conceptual framework review’, Journal of Accounting and Public Policy, vol. 27, issue 6, pp. 495-502 ScienceDirect [Online]. Available at: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science (Accessed: 03 November 2010)

Comparative Paper: Beowulf and Batman Essay

A superhero is a fictional character who is noted for feats of courage and nobility, who usually has a colorful name and costume, a mastery of relevant skills, advanced equipment and/or extraordinary powers and abilities beyond those of normal human beings. More importantly, a superhero has a strong moral code, including a willingness to risk his own safety in the service of good without expectation of reward. Although superhero powers vary widely, the posession of superhuman strength, the ability to fly, and enhancements of the senses are all common.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These abovementioned characteristics of a superhero are evident in Beowulf, the main character in â€Å"the longest surviving poem in Old English†, which is also entitled Beowulf, by an unknown author (Online Reference Book for Medieval Studies, 2006). Beowulf showed signs of being a superhero in what Wikipedia has cited as his three main battles: First Battle: Grendel – When Beowulf, being the prince of a Germanic tribe from southern Sweden called the Geats, led his men to rescue the kingdom of Hrothgar of Denmark from Grendel, a â€Å"solitary fiend† (line 165), who has killed men and brought fear to all in Hrothgar’s charge. Beowulf tears Grendel’s arm from his body and Grendel runs home to die, which caused the Danes and the Swedes to rejoice. Second Battle: Grendel’s Mother – When Grendel’s mother attacks that same night Grendel was defeated, and took one man to avenge her son’s death, Beowulf, along with his men and the Danes, traveled to the lake where this monster-woman lives, but the hero dives into the water alone, eventually defeating the â€Å"towering mere-wife† (line 1519) only by using a magic sword he finds in her cache of treasure (lines 837-1650). Third Battle: the dragon – Beowulf returns home and eventually becomes king of his own people. One day, late in Beowulf’s life, a man steals a golden cup from a dragon’s lair. When the dragon sees that the cup has been stolen, it leaves its cave in a rage, burning up everything in sight. Beowulf and his warriors come to fight the dragon, but only one of the warriors, a brave young man named Wiglaf, stays to help Beowulf, because the rest are too afraid. Beowulf kills the dragon with Wiglaf’s help, but dies from the wounds he has received. The dragon’s treasure is taken from its lair and buried with Beowulf’s ashes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These adventures of Beuwolf are somehow being resurrected in today’s superheroes such as Batman, although both represent an entirely different literary traditions. The former is a 10th century Anglo-Saxon epic poem with a touch of Christianity while the latter is a product of what is called as popular culture – movies, shows or comics that usually has a mass appeal. The classic hero possesses strength, ethics; and, above all, fights evil. This model applied in the time of Beowulf still applies today, only slightly modified. As a result of such innovations as television and fashion magazines, society has come to value physical attractiveness and sexual prowess, as evident in the example of Batman. In addition, humility has become a desired quality in modern times, whereas self-confidence to the point of arrogance was a favorable attribute in the time of Beowulf.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Despite the differences, similarities between the Anglo-Saxon hero and modern day hero can be seen through the comparison of Beowulf and Batman. Beowulf and Batman both possess the heroic quality of strength. We have seen Beowulf’s feat in the three battles described above.   Batman, on the other hand, single-handedly fights gangs of criminals on numerous occasions in the movie â€Å"Batman,† showing not only muscular strength, but endurance, much like that of Beowulf. Batman echoes the heroic strength of Beowulf. Another heroic quality shared by Batman and Beowulf is their commitment to fighting evil. When a villain attacks innocent citizens, the hero is there to protect them and fight the attacker.   This is where the fighting of Good versus evil becomes the next major component to the stories of Beowulf and Batman. The Anglo-Saxons were religious people and had a strong belief in God. The hero must kill the villain â€Å"face to face† and never stab it in the back. These heroes represent the Good; they are usually honest, clean, upright respectable people – an archetype for what a model citizen should be. Both the stories tell a tale of Good fighting against Evil and then dying for the people. Both Batman and Beowulf wear this heroic responsibility to fight evil well. However, as opposed to Batman, Beowulf, whose main asset was his amazing hand strength, not much mention was made of his wily good looks or his incredible intelligence (Rollins, 2006). As Christianity spread throughout Europe, feudal cultures told stories that combined their warrior ethos with Christ’s example of personal sacrifice. Despite developing a global culture theoretically no longer quite as dependent on national conquest, the Western world still tends to envision our savior hero as â€Å"someone who kicks butt† (think of Neo in The Matrix) (Wandtke, 2005). Alongside this pervasive trend, however, an interesting countercurrent developed in the Renaissance and has reached its peak in recent years. This countercurrent suggests the hero who rights the wrongs of the world with force might actually be destructive to general cultural development (as one culture’s hero will often be another culture’s villain). Do our warrior heroes provide us with examples of the heights we can reach as Christians? Or do they operate with moral principles that work in opposition to the teachings of Jesus?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Even though the roles have changed for the heroes throughout time their importance to the countries has not gotten smaller. These heroes’ jobs are also as equally important as the ones of Beowulf’s day because they play a large role in our society. Television, radio stations and comic books are a form of entertainment that allows people to be introduced to heroes and escape their problems and lives, and pretend that these heroes would transport them into a world solely their own, a world where the good triumphs over evil – even for a moment. For as long as there are harsh realities, there is always a room for make-believe. Worls Cited: Abrams, M.H. â€Å"Beowulf.† The Norton Anthology of English Literature. Retrieved 22 Apr   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   2006, . â€Å"Beowulf.† Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 23 Apr 2006, 12:11 UTC. 23 Apr 2006, 20:48   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   . â€Å"Beowulf: Introduction.† Online Reference Books for Medieval Studies. 08 Aug 2003,    Wandtke, Terry. â€Å"From Beowulf to Batman: Classic Heroism in Contemporary Contexts   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (Or, Where’s My Jesus Action Figure?).† Imaginarium @ cornerstone festival. 30   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   June 2005,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   . Rollins, Roger B. â€Å"True Blue Revolutionaries or Tired Beowulf Reruns.† MegaEssays.com.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Retrieved 23 Apr 2006, .