Middlesex+journal+entry+13

1. transmogrification (486): changing into a different form/appearance Staatsbibliotek (497): German for state library; I should have assumed because "biblioteca" in Spanish is library, and it sounds similar

4. "Sex is biological. Gender is cultural." (489) - so true.

- Since this book was more intriguing to read than some of the Victorian novels I have read in school in the past, I think I experienced a wide range of emotions. Due to the sarcastic writing/puns, I definitely chucked to myself often. There were also many times where I felt for the characters (more upsetting moments) - especially when Chapter Eleven and Milton got in a big fight and Chapter Eleven left; for some reason, this moment kind of stood out to me. Then there were also a series of uncomfortable moments, but having to read through these passes really opened my eyes. I actually was kind of surprised that a novel would make me feel uncomfortable (mostly in the extremely sexual moments - and in the beginning when the narrator discussed what happened to Dr. P's children/wife; that was a little scarring) especially because usually one would suspect a novel to make him/her feel that uncomfortable. When it comes to the biology of someone who is intersex, I definitely learned a lot. The novel overall was different in its writing style (and of course its content) so I gained insight from its diverse topics. I think Eugenides included all of these details in order to make the story more real and continue its narrativity/story-like quality. In my opinion, it is kind of unrealistic that Cal has such vivid memories to recall all of this to us..but it did make the novel that much more intriguing and exciting to read! I am really glad we read it and discussed it so much in class.