Around the world﹕Wrong target
【明報專訊】To commemorate Joan of Arc (聖女貞德), Dr Panda and Bill are reading books on her. That draws Eason's attention.
“ Bill: Oh, Joan wasn't treated well in the Shakespeare canon! ”
“ Dr Panda: Yes, I would burn them if they weren't expensive. ”
“ Eason: The cannon of Shakespeare? It might be worth a fortune! ”
“ Bill: Where's your water cannon? ”
“ Dr Panda: Never mind. Just a toy. ”
“ Eason: Believe me! It's an antique of great value. ”
“ Man: Are you kidding me? How about you go play with my son. ”
■Culture tips
Canonising Saint Joan of Arc
An illiterate girl born in a farmer's family in France, Joan received a divine order to lead an army against the English invaders. She then showed her prowess with her use of cannons on the battlefield. However, she was seized by the enemy and found guilty of violating one of the Christian canons that a person cannot directly hear from God, and later burnt alive. She is portrayed as a hussy (蕩婦) in some literary works. Not until 16 May 1920 did the Catholic Church canonise (封聖) Joan for her contribution. ?
■English highway﹕canon vs. cannon
They are easily confused because of the same pronunciation. Cannon is a kind of firearm and canon refers to a list of rules, books or moral codes.
e.g. The kids are excited about the Portuguese cannons in Macau.
e.g. Journey to the West (《西遊記》) is a major work in the canon of Chinese literature.
■Glossary
illiterate (adj) 不識字的
divine (adj) 神聖的
prowess (n) 高超技藝
seize (v) 抓住
[Smarties' Power English 第218期]
