User talk:Kurtismccallie95123

This is the User Talk page for Kurtismccallie95123 (talk) 11:57, 9 February 2016 (UTC)

I found Stephen Fry's examination of the differences between American and British humour quite interesting. Maybe even a little cool. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k2AbqTBxao He explains how in most British comedies, the characters often portray themselves as the underdog, inevitably bound to fail despite persistently trying. Though in American sitcoms, the characters are often portrayed as confident, eccentric and sharp-witted.

I like this analysis because I've always been fascinated by the cultural similarities between America and Britain, and I find it interesting how both cultures are undeniably alike compared to most, however when it comes to comedy they couldn't be any further apart. Fry seems to hit the nail on the head in his clip, explaining that comedy has always been the microcosm for examining the cultural differences between Britain and America.

Kurtismccallie95123 (talk) 09:50, 10 February 2016 (UTC)

Though the origin of the name Stirling remains largely unclear, most historians suggest that it originates from a Gaelic word meaning the place of battle, or struggle, according to folk etymology. Judging by the historic defences and the architecture of Stirling Castle; which overlooks the city, one could easily acquire the impression that it was once a place which prided itself in overcoming hardship, however at a more contemporary glance you are left with the impression that it’s always been a place of peace, a place where community spirit is triumphant in the face of adversity, a place where the remaining embers of history cry “there will always be a Stirling”. A hard earned history which was earned in bloodshed at The Battle of Stirling Bridge, which was the first war of Scottish Independence in 1297, where notable historical figures such as William Wallace and Andrew Moray defeated the English forces on the River Forth. Much of Stirling hasn’t modernised from the 1800’s, with many of the old buildings remaining largely intact to this day. Though Stirling is now widely considered to be a city, the place has kept much of its ancient rustic aesthetics which appeal greatly to those with a keen eye for rich history and cultural heritage. In a world where seemingly everywhere appears to be modernising and expanding, you can find a sincere sense of serenity here; whether it’s a weekend retreat, an extended visit, or perhaps a place of permanent residence, all the cultural and historical sentiments which make Stirling an intriguingly diverse and beautiful place are available.

I suppose what stands out the most when walking through the city centre are the number of neat little barber shops; whacky little bars such as the Aussie-themed Kilted Kangaroo, and renaissance style buildings like Argyll’s lodging situated just below Stirling Castle. Though much of Argyll’s lodging has been restored from the 1700’s, and a lot of the building had undergone maintenance work in previous years, it still has a very old feel and I was especially keen to take a long inside. Upon arrival at the lodge, I was hit by a warm fug with a familiar smell of old fabric, presumably coming from the red velvet thread seating in the dining room, elaborately adorned with the Stirling Castle insignia and fringed with fraying cotton. The fireplace, dating back to the 1630’s was situated in a pale, untouched room, the firelight shining like a beacon, emitting warmth behind a plain wooden frame with an iron surround, patterned with Scottish thistles. It was inviting, a place where hours of conversation, thoughts, and laughter would resign into the night.

The day after my stay at Argyll’s lodge, I decided to go a walk, I was particularly keen to see the side of Stirling I assumed would be the most attractive to the typical tourist; and no I am not referring to the selection of pubs Stirling has to offer, but the vibrant scenery which surrounds the place. Pacing up the steep embankment just below the Stirling Highland hotel, and overlooking the church I saw a wedding taking place. The sun was out, and the cast of the wedding appeared to be having a good time. The sunshine merely blocked out for several seconds by the shadow of the castle and then returning to bless a memory in the making, one that would presumably last for many years, as well as the knowledge that this event took place on an exceptionally pleasant day in Stirling. In this particular moment I couldn’t think of a better place to exchange vows with a counterpart, it was quite remarkable, although I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when walking up the hill which overlooks Stirling Castle; a dead end, jagged fencing guarding the perimeter perhaps, or maybe even a pathway which takes you directly to the castle, the three weren’t mutually guaranteed. However, this precarious sense of wanderlust could only be achieved by stepping foot out the front door and having a look around. It’s the uncertainty that makes it all worthwhile, like a mini adventure where you don’t quite know where you’re going or what to expect, but you know that it’s going to be good. You truly get the best of both worlds here, unlike other cities such as Glasgow or Edinburgh where you are constantly surrounded by cars, buses and pedestrians, cities where industrial life and the irrefutably distasteful smells that accompany it are almost completely inescapable. That’s not to say these aren’t great cities, however, you find a sense of wellbeing here which in itself is a far cry from the common familiarities of everyday suburban life.

I could have continued the walk for hours, leading me into unknown territory and I’d have been completely content, but, I was keen to check out the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, which is a Victorian museum housing European art as well as artefacts dating back as far as the 1800’s. When I arrived at the museum, I did my best to be the art connoisseur in which I always envisioned myself, admittedly I wasn’t a big art buff and presumably I had no clue what I was supposed to be looking out for, but like much of us with little knowledge of Art museums, was determined not to spend the duration of my time there scratching my head and staring into infinity. Though the experience appeared foreign at first, and my ability to clarify and understand what I saw within each symmetric frame exhausted, I couldn’t help but enjoy the experience. But much of the paintings I observed, left me enthralled and eventually immersed in the process, and a little open-mindedness can go a long way when you’re looking for inspiration. I suppose that’s essentially what the afternoon was all about, with no set goal in mind, or particular destination in reach, I felt content regardless. A certain feeling that’s usually difficult to pinpoint, but all too familiar when you’re in Stirling.