How to Become a National Merit Semifinalist

Instructions to Become a National Merit Semifinalist SAT/ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Each October, about 1.6 million youngsters the nation over take the PSAT. The individuals who score in the top 1% accomplish the qualification of National Merit Semifinalist. The greater part of these understudies proceed onward to become National Merit Finalists, with some triumphant grant cash for school. Being named a National Merit Semifinalist is a colossal accomplishment along the way to school. Let’s investigate what you have to do to turn into a National Merit Semifinalist. Essential Entry Requirements forNational Merit Semifinalists To turn into a Semifinalist and be qualified for a National Merit Scholarship, you should meet the accompanying four necessities set by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC): Be enlisted as a secondary school understudy, advancing regularly toward graduation.This just implies that you’re taking and passing an ordinary number of classes and hope to graduate on schedule. Plan to enlist full-time in school beginning the fall following secondary school graduation. At the end of the day, you can’t defer school to go through a year abroad, work all day, etc. Be a U.S. resident or legitimate U.S. perpetual occupant wanting to turn into a U.S. resident. Procure a top PSAT score.The meaning of a top score fluctuates by state, however for the most part you'll have to score in the top 1% of youngsters to qualify. Be that as it may, what PSAT score do you need precisely? Continue perusing on the grounds that in the following area we clarify precisely how high your PSAT score should be to qualify you for Semifinalist status. To be qualified for National Merit, you should plan to begin school in the fall after your secondary school graduation. National Merit SemifinalistQualifying Scores The NMSCuses its own Selection Index to figure out which understudies qualify as Commended Students and Semifinalists. All in all, understudies who score in thetop 3-4%are named Commended Scholars, while understudies who score in the top 1% are esteemed Semifinalists. Understudies are analyzed on astate-by-state basis.The NMSC's Selection Index ranges from 48 to 228 and depends on PSAT segment scores. There are three PSAT segment scores (one each for Math, Reading, and Writing and Language). Each segment score ranges from 8 to 38. To compute your Selection Index, you simplyadd your three PSAT segment scores together and afterward duplicate the total by 2. Suppose you got 28 on Reading, 32 on Writing and Language, and 34 on Math. To discover your Selection Index score, first include your segment scores together: 28 + 32 + 34 = 94. At that point, increase the entirety by 2 (94 * 2 = 188). This gives you a Selection Index score of 188. As you'll find in the graph underneath, a 188 Selection Index score isn't sufficiently high toqualify for National Merit Semifinalist status. Rather, you'll need a Selection Index of 212 or higher, contingent upon where you step through the examination. In view of reports from people around the nation, we've assembled a thorough rundown of qualifying PSAT Selection Index scores. Look at the latest state shorts for National Merit Semifinalist in the diagram beneath. These were utilized to choose Semifinalists from the October 2017 organization of the PSAT. State Determination Index Alabama 216 Gold country 215 Arizona 220 Arkansas 214 California 223 Colorado 221 Connecticut 222 Delaware 222 DC 223 Florida 219 Georgia 220 Hawaii 220 Idaho 214 Illinois 221 Indiana 219 Iowa 216 Kansas 218 Kentucky 218 Louisiana 217 Maine 217 Maryland 223 Massachusetts 223 Michigan 219 Minnesota 220 Mississippi 215 Missouri 217 Montana 214 Nebraska 216 Nevada 218 New Hampshire 219 New Jersey 223 New Mexico 215 New York 221 North Carolina 220 North Dakota 212 Ohio 219 Oklahoma 215 Oregon 221 Pennsylvania 220 Rhode Island 220 South Carolina 216 South Dakota 215 Tennessee 219 Texas 221 Utah 215 Vermont 216 Virginia 222 Washington 222 West Virginia 212 Wisconsin 216 Wyoming 212 Normal Score 218 As should be obvious, scores change contingent upon where you step through the exam. Cutoffsregularly fluctuate a couple of focuses between years, so on the off chance that you haven't taken the PSAT yet and are focusing on National Merit, set your objective Selection Index about2-5 focuses higher than the anticipated cutoff for your state. After you take the PSAT, there's nothing more you can do to be named Semifinalist until the outcomes are declared. The NMSC tells qualified understudies in September the accompanying school year. Frustrated with your scores? Need to improve your SAT score by 160points?We've composed a guide about the best 5 methodologies you should use to have a taken shots at improving your score. Download it with the expectation of complimentary at this point: What Are the Steps to Becoming a National Merit Semifinalist? You currently know the necessities for turning into a National Merit Semifinalist, and you have an arrangement to get a top PSAT score. However, what are the real strides to turning into a Semifinalist?The procedure starts right off the bat in your lesser year and can last right until the finish of your senior year. The following is a framework of the key advances you'll have to take to turn into a Semifinalist. Junior Year October: Take the PSAT You’ll take the PSAT on a Wednesday or Saturday in October of your lesser year. Since you'll be contending with about 1.6 million youngsters, it's critical to read tirelessly for the PSAT (as you would for the SAT or ACT) by taking authority PSAT practice tests andtargeting your shortcomings in your prep.(We give you more PSAT prep tips in the following segment.) Keep in mind, just the top 1% of youngsters fit the bill for Semifinalist status, so you'll should be at the highest point of your game on test day! Focusing on a National Merit Scholarship yet stressed your score won't qualify? In case you don't know you can self-study your way to a passing PSAT score, you'll love our PSAT prep program, PrepScholar. We structured our program to get familiar with your qualities and shortcomings through cutting edge measurements and modify your prep to be as viable as feasible for you. At the point when you start with PrepScholar, you’ll take an analytic that will decide your shortcomings in more than forty PSAT abilities. PrepScholar then makes an examination program explicitly redid for you. To improve every aptitude, you’ll take centered exercises devoted to every expertise, with more than 20 practice questions for every ability. This will prepare you for your particular territory shortcomings, so your time is constantly burned through most viably to raise your score. We likewise compel you to concentrate on understanding your errors and gaining from them. In the event that you commit a similar error again and again, we'll get down on you about it. There’s no other prep framework out there that does it along these lines, which is the reason we show signs of improvement score results than some other program available. Look at it today with a 5-day free preliminary: December: Receive PSAT Scores You’ll commonly get your PSAT scores in early December,about a month and a half after you step through the examination. While you'll have the option to perceive how well you scored and whether you meet your state's latest National Merit Semifinalist cutoff, recall thatthese shorts can change somewhat every year, so you won’t know without a doubt whether you're a Semifinalist until the start of your senior year. Winter/Spring: NMSC Determines High Scorers During this time, the NMSC decides the 50,000 high scorers who quality for the National Merit program. Senior Year September: Semifinalists Announced In early Septemberof your senior year, you’ll at last realize whether you’re authoritatively a National Merit Semifinalist or not. Of the 50,000 high scorers decided, 16,000 will become Semifinalists, and the staying 34,000 will be perceived as Commended Students (however won’t push ahead with the National Merit Program). Fall: Apply to Be a Finalist After you’ve been perceived as a Semifinalist, you’ll start the Finalist application process. To apply, you’ll need to present the accompanying materials: Secondary school transcript SAT scores (must be gotten by December 31) Data about your exercises and positions of authority An individual article A suggestion from your secondary school head, or somebody the chief assigns as a school official Data about your school’s educational plans and evaluating framework There’s no official cutoff for SAT scores or GPA, however the NMSC is searching for solid evaluations and grades to demonstrate that your PSAT scores weren’t only an accident. February: Finalists Announced In February, 15,000 of the 16,000 Semifinalists are named Finalists and can apply for National Merit Scholarships. Walk: Scholarship Winners Announced At long last, 7,500 of the finalists discover that they are National Merit Scholarship champs. Every victor gets a $2,500-a-year National Merit Scholarship, a corporate-supported grant, and additionally a school supported grant. How Do You Get the PSAT Score You Need to Become a National Merit Semifinalist? Okay, so you’re going to require a stunning score on the PSAT so as to meet the National Merit Semifinalist cutoff. Understanding that score can be intense, however follow these three hints as you get ready so as to get your best PSAT score. #1: Take Practice Tests Excelling on the PSAT is about readiness. Considering the substance and organization of the test is the most ideal approach to bring your score up. A few people are characteristic test takers, while others worry under tension. Notwithstanding how you respond to coordinated tests, getting ready with high caliber, important materials is simply the most ideal approach to position toward top scores. Since the College Board makes the PSAT, its online practice questions are an extraordinary pla

Role of Technology in Retail Sector

Job of Technology in Retail Sector Today, in the 21st century, retailers everywhere throughout the world are progressively getting benefit consequently by conveying consumer loyalty through the reception of numerous ground-breaking technologies.Advertising We will compose a custom appraisal test on Role of Technology in Retail Sector explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More Indeed, innovation has significantly moved the scene of the retail business, as more retailers embrace and actualize mechanical arrangements that highlight versatility, proficiency, seriousness and maintainability (Delgado 2012; Fiorito et al 2010). The current paper endeavors to talk about how innovation is used in the retail segment, how it has affected the retail business and its clients, and the basic advancements found in the retail business. Innovation is used in the retail area from various perspectives not exclusively to accomplish benefit and intensity for the association, yet additionally to create an incentive for clients a nd change the relationship with clients and other exchanging organizations (Ko Kincade, 1997). Novel advancements, for example, Point-of-Sale (POS) frameworks can be used in the retail area for proficient and viable exchanges, appropriate bookkeeping, â€Å"customer dependability, CRM [Customer Relationship Management], PCI [Payment Card Industry] issues, back office moves and getting, time-keeping and planning, and errand management†(Delgado, 2010 p. 10). Other innovative arrangements, for example, the Retail Pro framework and Microsoft Retail Management System, have been successfully utilized in retail to, in addition to other things: limit burglary and human blunder; upgrade effectiveness and speed in the checkout procedure; give broad following of business exchanges, limits and items; profit cutting-edge deals efficiency insights; encourage stock control and the executives; attempt buy request the executives; and advance client relationship the board just as installment h andling arrangements (Delgado, 2010) Furthermore, some mechanical arrangements, for example, e-business can be used to coordinate developing correspondence advances with business procedures and the board rehearses by means of the web, bringing about by and large change of the connections that retailers have with their clients, providers and different colleagues (Bordonaba-Juste et al., 2012). In talking about the effect of innovation on retail business and its clients, surviving writing exhibits that â€Å"web advancements help firms to comprehend client needs, to redo items, to embrace item advertise arrangements, and to take customers’ orders† (Bordonaba-Juste et al., 2012 p. 533).Advertising Looking for evaluation on business financial aspects? We should check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Retail organizations, specifically, are affected by more up to date troublesome advancements, for example, e-business as they need to re design and rebuild themselves persistently, with the view to incorporating the innovative arrangements into their current work procedures to accomplish productivity and seriousness. Moreover, portable installment programs have emphatically affected the retail part regarding quicker checkout times and the limit by clients to get email receipts that are increasingly helpful since they can be put away on an advanced cell and got to more effectively than paper-based receipts (Delgado, 2010). Proceeding onward, basic advances in the retail segment have the ability to attach a client to an exchange, and therefore to a wide scope of items, not just prompting the opening up of another wilderness for one-on-one advertising (Delgado, 2010), yet in addition generously changing the manner in which business is led through benefiting significant information both inside the association and to providers, channel accomplices and clients (Bordonaba-Juste et al., 2012). Such capacities have been known to essentially diminish customers’ search-related expenses, encourage the speed of response to significant market data, give a superior shopping experience, decline stock-out rate, improve stock and recharging rates, help retailers to anticipate what is probably going to happen and choose what to do straightaway, and upgrade access to new items in new channels, consequently emphatically influencing the retailer’s main concern regarding benefits and upper hand (Fiorito et al., 2010; Ko Kincade, 1997; Puleri, 2011). In any case, a significant negative effect of innovation on retailers concerns the way that â€Å"competitors are increasingly various on the grounds that the commercial center has no obstructions and new contestants approach a worldwide market† (Bordonaba-Juste et al., 2012 p. 534). Another negative effect concerns the way that some electronic innovations, for example, e-business benefit basic market data not exclusively to clients yet in addition to contenders, inferring that retailers must utilize systems to guarantee such data turns into a center competency instead of an impediment to the organization (Barlow et al., 2004). In examining the last segment of the paper, which concerns the basic innovations found in the retail business, it tends to be contended that brisk reaction advancements, for example, electronic information exchange (EDI), bar-coding, and retail location (POS) information catch act to improve stock and recharging rates, enhance the progression of data and product between channel accomplices to upgrade client worth and fulfillment, and improve turn of merchandise (Ko Kincade, 1997).Advertising We will compose a custom evaluation test on Role of Technology in Retail Sector explicitly for you for just $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is critical to take note of the POS programming arrangements by and by used in the retailing segment involve â€Å" Retail Pro, Microsoft Retail Management System (RMS), and Keystr oke POS, while instances of driving POS equipment frameworks are HP’s rp5800 Point of Sale arrangement, IBM’s SurePOS 500 framework, and NCR’s RealPOS 25 system† (Delgado, 2010 p. 11). Different innovations as of now utilized in the retail part incorporate advanced mobile phones, iPods, iPads, tablets, Quick Response (QR) codes, and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). Separately and by and large, these advances are known to improve portability, productivity and consumer loyalty, while likewise giving important item data and encouraging the limit with respect to the retailer to know how much stock of a specific item they have, directly down to measure, amount and shading (Barlow et al., 2004; Delgado, 2010). By and large, it tends to be reasoned that the appropriation of developing advances is the correct approach for retailers in their endeavor to revolutionalize the part in not just accomplishing benefit and upper hand for the organizations, yet in add ition in improving customers’ worth, fulfillment and capacity to explore any item offering and making buys any place and at whatever point they wish. References Barlow, A.K.J., Siddiqui, N.Q., Mannion, M. (2004). Advancements in data and correspondence advances for retail showcasing channels. Worldwide Journal of Retail Distribution Management, 32(3), 157-163. Bordonaba-Juste, V., Lucia-Palacios, L., Polo-Redondo, Y. (2012). Predecessors and outcomes of e-business selection for European retailers. Web Research, 22(5), 532-550. Delgado, F.J. (2012). New retail advancements. Outdoor supplies Business, 45(9), 10-13. Fiorito, S.S., Gable, M., Conseur, A. (2010). Innovation: Advancing retail purchaser execution in the 21st century. Worldwide Journal of Retail Distribution Management, 38(11/12), 879-893.Advertising Searching for appraisal on business financial matters? How about we check whether we can support you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Find out More Ko, E., Kincade, D.H. (1997). The effect of brisk reaction innovations on retail location traits. Universal Journal of Retail Distribution Management, 25(2), 90-98. Puleri, J. (2011). The eventual fate of innovation in retail. Chain Store Age, 87(7), 22-22.

Outbreak of WW1 essays

Episode of WW1 expositions It was Otto Von Bismarcks long for a German realm that truly got the show on the road towards world war one. In 1862, Bismarck was picked outside pastor of Prussia and from that point he vanquished the Austrians and the French where he increased a lot of an area (states) which obviously caused a lot of pressure through Western Europe, and made Bismarcks German realm. From that point, Bismarck understood that the French would want la revanche for their devastating annihilations against Prussia and therefore made the new international strategy to seclude France. This is the place the partnership framework truly gained out of power. He initially made the Three Emperors League in 1873; this comprised of Germany, Austria-Hungary and Russia. Furthermore, was essentially a consent to meet with one another about global significance and to keep going back and forth whenever assaulted by some other country outside the group. The main genuine issue with this partnership was the nervous mentality between Austria-Hungary and Russia who both had interests in controlling the Balkan area. Bismarck didn't have a lot of trust in the Russians and shaped more grounded ties with the Austria-Hungarians and in 1879 the Dual Alliance was marked covertly. The two of them concurred if either was assaulted by Russia they would be encouraged and to remain uncommitted whenever assaulted by another nation. This was an exceptionally fearless move which truly could have caused a tremendous measure of antagonistic vibe in Europe, however the collusion proceeded until WWI. In 1882 the union among Germany and Austria-Hungary was ventured into a triple coalition and Italy joined. It at that point extended again with Romania participating in 1883 and Turkey participating in 1914. In 1887 the Russians turned down the Three Emperors League as a result of the pressure still between Austria-Hungary and themselves. The mystery of governmental issues? Make a decent bargain with Russia. The Germans understanding the significance of Russia (being one ... <!

The Story A & P By John Updike Is A Tale Of A Young Man Who Lets His D

The story An and P by John Updike is a story of a youngster who lets his wants and his annoyance advance beyond him and at long last breezes up leaving his place of employment. The fundamental character of the story is Sammy. A multi year old kid from a little suburb outside Boston who works at An and P Supermarket. Sammy appears to be a normal kid who appears to be a tiny bit sick of the standard clients who come into his store. Customary clients including those more established wedded ladies with different children, the overweight woman who has no second thoughts wearing her swimsuit that doesn't exactly cover, and the criticizing old women who go through years attempting to get a mistake by a clerk. It's the final desperate attempt to establish a connection with a delightful youngster that winds up leaving Sammy jobless. The story begins in An and P outside of Boston when in through the entryway strolls three youngster brandishing nothing aside from uncovering two piece swimming outfits. Immediately saw by Sammy, he changes his concentration towards the three young ladies and investigates them in his mind as he watches them shop about the store. It's the pioneer of the pack, which Sammy coins the epithet Queenie, that truly grabs his attention. A tall earthy colored haired young lady whose shoulder lashes had tumbled off of her shoulders and just dangled around her arms. Hypnotized by her magnificence and feeling honored when Queenie and her pack enter Sammy's line, he starts to ring up her jar of extravagant herring snacks. As Queenie ventures into the focal point of her swimsuit to expel the dollar to pay for the bite in strolls Lengel. Lengel, Sammy's uneasy bleak chief rapidly sees the outfits of the three young ladies which stands out like a full moon on a crisp evening starts to stroll over and go up against Queenie. Lengel continues to disturb and humiliate Queenie and her companions about their clothing. Sammy rushed to ring up the buy and hand Queenie a pack with her food in it. Presently was the time Sammy was to make his turn, regardless of whether it be his expectation just to grab the eye of something like this of excellence or possibly it was his resentment toward Lengel for mourning this lovely second clerks long for . Not astonished at the young ladies endeavor to speed out the store, Sammy immediately hollered out I quit. The young ladies had heard him, yet that is it, they kept on strolling over the parking area, it was simply Sammy and Lengel now. Acknowledging what he had done, and as yet trusting by that some thin marvel the young ladies would pivot and crown him their saint. It wasn't going to occur and Sammy realized he could now return now and that his choice, as off-base it might have been was conclusive. The story An and P by John Updike is a story of a youngster who lets his wants and his indignation stretch out beyond him and at long last breezes up leaving his place of employment. The principle character of the story is Sammy. A multi year old kid from a little suburb outside Boston who works at An and P Supermarket. Sammy appears to be a normal kid who appears to be a tiny bit sick of the customary clients who come into his store. Standard clients including those more established wedded ladies with various children, the overweight woman who has no second thoughts wearing her swimsuit that doesn't exactly cover, and the criticizing old women who go through years attempting to get a blunder by a clerk. It's the final desperate attempt to establish a connection with a delightful youngster that winds up leaving Sammy jobless. The story begins in An and P outside of Boston when in through the entryway strolls three youngster donning nothing with the exception of uncovering two piece swimsuits. Immediately saw by Sammy, he changes his concentration towards the three young ladies and scrutinizes them in his mind as he watches them shop about the store. It's the pioneer of the pack, which Sammy coins the epithet Queenie, that truly gets his attention. A

Chemistry Example

Chemistry Example Chemistry â€" Essay Example > As chemistry emerged as a modern science in the early to mid nineteen century, the teaching methods of traditional lecture and laboratory were established. There are different tools available that can support teaching and learning in chemistry. The tools include smart phones, computer, tablets, mobile phones and others. Smartphones and tablets help in the participation of members in class discussion boards, which enable exchange of ideas in chemistry wikis and journals. Modern technology tools has been used in learning in native mobile apps like Blackboard Mobile Learn, Mobile Moodle and Desire2Learn Mobile apps, while others like blackboard are even available for iPhone/iPod, iPad, Blackberry and Android smart phones and mobile tablets (Brockman, 1996). . In science learning, students can use different tool applications and also learn what needs are met by these application and when and how to use their different features. For example following tool applications can be used in sci ence learning: word processing, publications and presentation software, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia, web browsers and e-mail. Word processing software can be used, for example, for organizing ideas, writing home works and project works. Spreadsheet can be used, for example, for analyzing data and modeling (Daniels, 2006). To select the right tool application it is important to understand what types of thinking, learning experiences and experiences of new technology tool supports. A teacher can use tool application is several way. In addition to previously mentioned, he or she can prepare assignments, tests, and other resources for science teaching and learning. Video or LCD projector can be used as a tool in several ways presentations and it can be connected to MBL-tool or a microscope. Chemistry curriculumThese tools are used in many ways in the chemistry curriculum like online learning through mobile devices like iPads and net books makes the learning process in classroom to be flexible. Online service is now more available that can be used to do homework, do practice questions or even do exam and even submitting homework online (Brockman, 1996). . This saves time and enables learners to do their work in time and effectively. Access to Websites it enables access to different websites that are related to the teaching of chemistry which provide a rich source learning materials and other up to date materials. Visualization and Modeling Visualization technology enhances learning by bringing out the concept clearly. They are used to visualize and reason on complex issues and concepts in chemistry experiments. This has been realized through simulation and animation like in molecular structures, reaction simulations and simulation for experimental data and chemical compounds. In addition, molecules can be represented in 2d and 3d form by rotating and enlarging to facilitate learning and better visualization of the learner. A teacher can use a Power Point presentation or a whiteboard when he or she explains a science model (Daniels, 2006). An example of simulation is shown below. Experiments can be done virtually using the computer models. Such experiments are easy to understand because there may not interference from external environment which oven causes errors. The computer is used to analyze the data obtained from the experiment. One of the most significant technical uses of computer is calculation and analysis of the data through generation of graph and other models.

Chemistry Example

Chemistry Example Chemistry â€" Essay Example > As chemistry emerged as a modern science in the early to mid nineteen century, the teaching methods of traditional lecture and laboratory were established. There are different tools available that can support teaching and learning in chemistry. The tools include smart phones, computer, tablets, mobile phones and others. Smartphones and tablets help in the participation of members in class discussion boards, which enable exchange of ideas in chemistry wikis and journals. Modern technology tools has been used in learning in native mobile apps like Blackboard Mobile Learn, Mobile Moodle and Desire2Learn Mobile apps, while others like blackboard are even available for iPhone/iPod, iPad, Blackberry and Android smart phones and mobile tablets (Brockman, 1996). . In science learning, students can use different tool applications and also learn what needs are met by these application and when and how to use their different features. For example following tool applications can be used in sci ence learning: word processing, publications and presentation software, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia, web browsers and e-mail. Word processing software can be used, for example, for organizing ideas, writing home works and project works. Spreadsheet can be used, for example, for analyzing data and modeling (Daniels, 2006). To select the right tool application it is important to understand what types of thinking, learning experiences and experiences of new technology tool supports. A teacher can use tool application is several way. In addition to previously mentioned, he or she can prepare assignments, tests, and other resources for science teaching and learning. Video or LCD projector can be used as a tool in several ways presentations and it can be connected to MBL-tool or a microscope. Chemistry curriculumThese tools are used in many ways in the chemistry curriculum like online learning through mobile devices like iPads and net books makes the learning process in classroom to be flexible. Online service is now more available that can be used to do homework, do practice questions or even do exam and even submitting homework online (Brockman, 1996). . This saves time and enables learners to do their work in time and effectively. Access to Websites it enables access to different websites that are related to the teaching of chemistry which provide a rich source learning materials and other up to date materials. Visualization and Modeling Visualization technology enhances learning by bringing out the concept clearly. They are used to visualize and reason on complex issues and concepts in chemistry experiments. This has been realized through simulation and animation like in molecular structures, reaction simulations and simulation for experimental data and chemical compounds. In addition, molecules can be represented in 2d and 3d form by rotating and enlarging to facilitate learning and better visualization of the learner. A teacher can use a Power Point presentation or a whiteboard when he or she explains a science model (Daniels, 2006). An example of simulation is shown below. Experiments can be done virtually using the computer models. Such experiments are easy to understand because there may not interference from external environment which oven causes errors. The computer is used to analyze the data obtained from the experiment. One of the most significant technical uses of computer is calculation and analysis of the data through generation of graph and other models.

The Historical Context of A Hero of Our Time - Literature Essay Samples

Mikhail Lermontov’s A Hero of Our Time not only represented the movement in which it appeared, known by some as Russian Romanticism, it also developed parallel to what was occurring historically in Russia during the first half of the 19th century. In fact, in order to grasp a full understanding of romantic movement artists, it is vital to understand the historical context, as well as the life and upbringing of Mikhail Lermontov himself. The â€Å"superfluous man† role that A Hero of Our Time’s main character Pechorin exemplifies, not only can be traced back to aspects of Lermontov’s own personality, but possibly also to characteristics of the one in power during this time, Nicholas I. Mikhail Lermontov was born in Moscow in the year 1814, and because his mother passed away when he was a child, he was raised by his wealthy, aristocratic and controlling grandmother somewhere in Central Russia (Terras 248). Many can agree that he left behind, â€Å"a literary legacy of considerable size and richness†, not only due to his innovative and creative writing style, but also because of his contributions to the romantic movement (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 316). As in the novel A Hero of Our Time, Lermontov often wrote about life in the Caucasus region of Russia, because he was sent there a couple of times after being prosecuted for various â€Å"crimes†, (in the modern sense they were not really crimes) (Terras 249). Additionally, he spent some time in this area serving in the army, only further solidifying his passion and interest in the stunning landscape of this region and its intriguing people (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 316-317). Lermontov possessed a rathe r unfavorable demeanor, as many would say, and due to his arrogance and mocking attitude, he grew to have many enemies, one of which eventually led to his premature demise and death (Terras 249). Lermontov died in his 20s in a duel, being shot just like the main character Pechorin of his novel A Hero of Our Time, ironically (Terras 249). Although meeting his fatal end prematurely, Lermontov inspired many other artists throughout Russia and beyond, contributing a few notable works to the diversity and dynamic of Russian literature. A Hero of Our Time appeared late in the author’s career, somewhere around 1840-1841 (Terras 373). Some scholars would claim that this novel served as part of the Russian Romanticism period (Terras 372), while others describe it as a push towards the Russian realistic novel, introducing elements of the Russian Romantic realism movement (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 317). Regardless of its categorization, A Hero of Our Time contained a few specific, unique elements that made it stand out from other works during its time, as well as adding to its distinct influence on literary history. First of all, the novel can be described as a psychological one, broken down into 5 cycles of inner thoughts, each described through the voice of different narrators (Terras 250). This element not only keeps the storyline fresh and interesting, it provides an inner glimpse into the minds of the characters, as well as a witnessing of multiple perspectives. These perspectives are presented journal entry style, which adds to the honest nature and real depiction of the events that unfold. As with Lermontov’s other works, A Hero of Our Time vividly expresses the stunning landscapes of the Caucasus region, with passages that are descriptive, gorgeous and captivating for the reader. The novel’s main character Pechorin, is what literaries describe as the Byronic hero and â€Å"superfluous man†, with each of the 5 cycles adding another complex layer to the protagonist’s personality (Terras 250). Eventually, by the end of the novel we witness Pechorin’s demise, as he slowly digs his own grave in many ways, appearing as more manipulative, self-absorbed, self-critical and in turn isolated, than in any of the prior chapters (Terras 250). In the beginning, it is no t difficult to like Pechorin as a character, but by the end of the novel you not only can see the ugliness of his disposition, you just feel sorry for the guy. Even if it did not last long, only for about the first half of the 19th century, beginning at the turn of the century, Russian Romanticism can best be described by a few common trends; Romantics strived for independence and in some ways rebelled from the constraints of their ultra-controlling and oppressive rulers, but in ways that remained subtle enough to not get them into too many legal troubles. They did so by attempting to establish independence from the Romantic movements of other European countries, so that Russian culture could be liberated from the â€Å"slavish imitation† of European models. Additionally, Romantic writers often supported nationalism; they felt Russian art contained a beauty of its own, which should be honored and respected, just as other countries honor and respect their own works. They felt their movement served as a way to encourage national originality, or narodnost (Terras 372-373). National originality became such a major dynamic of this time, t hat some would even say it was synonymous with Russian Romanticism. For many, the romantic period in Russia was an intensely dynamic and confusing time. Many people developed their own opinions and thoughts about certain aesthetic and philosophical questions, which produced a massive jumble of alliances. Even if Russian romantics wanted to stand out from the likes of other European romantic artists, many of their values related to those of the Europeans. Russian romantics still valued themes such as, love, rebellion, passion, death, madness, escapism, magic, the supernatural, murder, heroes, heroines and individual isolation, they simply implemented their own Russian settings and characters (Terras 373-375). The â€Å"superfluous man† is an intriguing aspect of the Romantic era, and of Mikhail Lermontov’s own literary works, for it is not only blatantly apparent in A Hero of Our Time, but in some ways Lermontov possibly felt it represented aspects of his own personality and eventual demise. In some ways, A Hero of Our Time was an instance of when life imitates art. The term was originally coined in print by writer Ivan Turgenev, but this phrase grew to represent many literary heroes of the Russian Romantic movement (Emerson 54). The â€Å"superfluous man† contains many complexities, but three parameters in specific tend to define this individual: he normally fails to win over the woman he loves, he fails to find an actually productive niche in society (often retreating into deep isolation and alienation), and he normally fails to thrive health-wise (Emerson 54). In A Hero of Our Time, these 3 aspects do connect to Pechorin; for he fails to win over Bela (she dies), h e never truly discovers what in society will bring him real happiness (and continues to constantly chase something new during that process) and his mental health is by all means questionable, especially when we witness the extent of his obsessive and manipulative tendencies by the final section. This â€Å"superfluous man† can possibly also be described as the anti-hero, and sometimes with this character it is challenging to say whether they fall under the role of the protagonist or the antagonist throughout the story. Some scholars relate the appearance of this anti-hero to the historical happenings during this time, claiming it may be a result of the nation-wide restrictive control of Nicholas I, â€Å"they quite sincerely recognized their duty to play their part in public life, but in the conditions of life under Nicholas I could find nothing to do† (Schapiro 160). As one could have guessed, the early 19th century was a complex and challenging time for the Russian people, for numerous reasons. Simultaneously, it is also described as Russia’s â€Å"golden age†, because many artistic styles adapted and transformed, bringing about new, original forms and ideas (like the Romantics), even amidst the insanities of rampant autocracy and power-fueled strict censorship (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 309). The Rise of â€Å"intelligentsia† also appeared, as more and more individuals strived to become educated and informed, raising the overall quality of aspects such as art and literature (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 310). There were two individuals in power during the first half of the 19th century, beginning with Alexander I, who ruled from 1801 until 1825 (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 265). This oppressive dictator genuinely believed order equaled happiness, and he wanted this system to be implemented all over Russia. The primary issue was his unpredictable personality, which led to him becoming suspicious of people and ultimately dissatisfied with life (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 267). He sometimes spoke of establishing a constitution, but steps towards this were never implemented, because he likely did not actually want a constitution, for it worked in his favor not to have one (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 270). Alexander I failed to reform Russia, likely because he was so focused upon diplomacy and war, which did not really give the Russian people any chance for growth (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 273). He eventually died in 1825 (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 273), and his brother Nicholas I was next in line to take over the throne. Nicholas I ruled from 1825-1855, and unlike his brother, his personality was rather predictable and well-established. He possessed an incredible determination and iron-will, which was in some ways beneficial, and in other ways detrimental for the Russian people (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 285). Like his brother, he also believed that order was vital for success, supporting loyalty and discipline as well. Nicholas I was religious, but unlike many individuals that searched for the truth of the world with God, this ruler held a strong faith and trust in God (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 286). Nicholas I supported nationalism, like the Romantic literaries did, but instead of it bringing about a sense of freedom and individuality, for him it was more of another side to autocracy, and he viewed the Russian people as kind beings that also needed a ruling hand (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 287). This nationalism expressed that every country had its own â€Å"unique genius†, with Russia’s genius being considered by Nicholas I as, â€Å"the unique bond of love and devotion between the people and the tsar† (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 288). This is probably also not how Romantic literaries viewed the term. Nicholas I was especially determined to fight any signs of rebell ion, but by the end of his regime, this obsessive determination grew to become his downfall (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 288). He became so terrified of any revolution happening, that he implemented some especially restrictive policies that further removed any freedom for the Russian people. Russians were no longer allowed to travel abroad, academic freedom and the autonomy of universities shrank sizeably and people were censored, both in everyday life and also in their modes of expression. Nicholas I tried to introduce reform, but failed miserably, because of his intent to preserve his autocracy, his fear of eliminating serfdom and his general distrust of his own people (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 291). Even though capitalism began to appear during this time and prior social constructs were slowly melting away, Russia remained behind developmentally when compared with other countries in Europe, and the tight control of Nicholas I could certainly have been to blame for Russia’s lack of economic developments, while the rest of the world seemed to be thriving (Riasanovsky and Steinberg 301). Just like Pechorin in A Hero of Our Time, both Nicholas I and Mikhail Lermontov met their eventual demise, much of which was due to their own personal inferiorities, as is the case with a literary anti-hero. Nicholas I, in particular, could not set aside his own egotistical, power-hungry beliefs to support his people when they needed him the most. Lermontov’s egotism was, perhaps nowhere near the degree of Nicholas I, but his arrogance did lead him towards the duel that led to his death, just like his main character, the â€Å"superfluous man†, Pechorin. Works Cited Emerson, Caryl. The Cambridge Introduction to Russian Literature. 2nd ed., Cambridge UP, 2013. Riasanovsky, Nicholas V, and Mark D. Steinberg. A History of Russia. 9th ed., Oxford University Press, 2019. Schapiro, Leonard. Turgenev: His Life and Times. Harvard UP, 1982, Accessed 23 Oct. 2018. Terras, Victor, editor. Handbook of Russian Literature. New Haven, 1985.