The topic "The Tope Curse" is one that holds significance in many societies around the world. Tope, also known as topa or tener éxitos, is a traditional curse implemented by some individuals to bring bad luck, misfortune, or failure upon others. This curse is said to have its origins in ancient folklore and has continued to persist in various cultures through the generations. The tope curse is commonly cast by jealous individuals, enemies, or people seeking revenge. It is believed that by casting this curse, one can hinder the success, happiness, or prosperity of the victim. The curse can be enacted through various means, such as through the use of specific rituals, spells, or charms.
Howl, on the other hand, was scared of The Witch of the Waste as she kept on hunting him down. He had explained the reason of this hunt to Sophie that, “she was once quite beautiful, so I decided to pursue her then I realized she wasn’t, so as usual I ran away,” therefore, he did not want to confront her.
In the ending part of the movie the loving nature of Sophie again appears as she hugs the Witch to make her let go off Calcifer from her hands implying in a way that she has accepted the Witch of the Waste as she is. This is not entirely true as we see her realize Suliman has sent a peeping bug to spy on them but doesn t realize that by giving it to Calcifer to eat that she s made it easier for them to be found.
The curse can be enacted through various means, such as through the use of specific rituals, spells, or charms. Some may even resort to seeking the help of a witch or a sorcerer to inflict this curse on their desired target. The effects of the tope curse can be diverse and vary depending on the beliefs of the people involved.
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The Witch of the Waste does not have a name but an epitaph for who she is. Her reputation as a witch proceeds who she is as an individual. She is a legend and a myth wrapped up in one but still real. The Witch’s only goal is to have Howl’s heart for herself. So when her blob henchmen chase after Howl and Sophie, she becomes jealous of Sophie. Her jealousy causes her to place a curse on Sophie to turn her old. The dramatic irony for the Witch is that she is in return turned old (which is actually her true age).
The Witch prizes her beauty, thinks she is superior to others and feels power and status is all that matters along with possessing the heart of Howl. The Witch has a very classic western “white” superior identity. Her desire to possess Howl’s heart is materialistic as she doesn’t seem to want it for the same reason’s Sophie does, love. Still she does admit that she is still in love but after states, “Men, why ever should we want them? But a young man’s heart is so delicious!…and so adorable too.” The Witch’s true intention with Howl’s heart is simply to possess the heart of a young man even if she had fallen in love with him at one time.
The Witch’s world starts to fall apart when she is summoned to see the King, believing that Suliman finally has need of her power. She states, “It’s been 50 years now, since they drove me out of here. I’ve been longing for this day ever since.” Still, being forced to climb up the steps of the palace has already started her to age, using Sophie’s cane to help her. Her appearance loses its prime and proper beautiful look to a sweating, hunched, woman. She takes a blow to her pride onto of her beauty when she has to admit to Sophie that she doesn’t know how to break the spell. When the audience finally sees her again, she has been turned into an old feeble woman.
Much like Howl, she had made a deal with a demon “who consumed her, body and soul, long, long ago.” This is why she has been returned to her proper age and stripped of her powers because of the bargain she made. The major difference between Howl and the Witch is that Howl had Sophie to save him where no one was able to save the Witch.
The Witch as an old woman finally enters into Howl’s home. She needs to be spoon fed by Sophie, and stares at Calcifer calling him a pretty fire continually. Her new state has made it appear as if she’s harmless and unable to do anything for herself. This is not entirely true as we see her realize Suliman has sent a peeping bug to spy on them but doesn’t realize that by giving it to Calcifer to eat that she’s made it easier for them to be found.
Upon learning of Calcifer having Howl’s heart, she grabs it, causing herself to light on fire. She holds it to herself even as she burns but saved by Sophie. She thinks Sophie is mean for trying to take Howl away from her; she just wanted his heart for herself. Finally, the Witch realizes how much Sophie wants Howl’s heart and why, telling her, “Oh, well, in that case, you’d better take good care of it.”
The Witch’s identity is changed in the slightest ways by being transformed into a harmless old woman. She is protective of Howl, just as Howl is protective of Sophie but for different reasons. The Witch doesn’t want Suliman to find Howl because she wants his heart and if Suliman found them then it wouldn’t be possible. She has lost her pride, her beauty, her powers and everything she prizes most inthe world. Despite it all, her goal never changes, until Sophie asks for it. She knows the power of love and allows for it to flourish. The Witch finally stops being someone to be feared (as Howl fears her) and someone who’s identity has changed after being forced to change by Suliman and with the influence of Sophie’s love for Howl. In the end, she gains a family, happiness and peace on Howl’s moving castle.
She starts living in the castle alongside Heen, and when Sophie's mother brings a parcel with a peeping bug she quickly discards it. When she realizes Calcifer has Howl's heart, she tries to take it for herself only to be burned by Calcifer's flame, prompting Sophie to attempt to douse her.
Some believe that the curse can lead to financial failure, relationship troubles, health issues, or even accidents. The curse is often considered to be a way of attempting to control or sabotage the lives of others by manipulating their destiny. In many cultures, precautions or protective measures are taken to ward off the effects of the tope curse. These can include wearing specific amulets or talismans, performing counter-curses or protection rituals, or seeking the help of spiritual healers. Some individuals may also seek divine intervention or prayer to protect themselves from the curse and its negative consequences. While the tope curse may hold deep cultural significance for some, it is important to approach the topic with skepticism and critical thinking. Many scientific studies and researchers have debunked the existence of curses and have attributed the perceived effects to psychological factors, suggestion, or coincidence. In conclusion, the tope curse is a traditional curse believed to bring bad luck or misfortune upon others. It is a phenomenon that has persisted over time and holds significance in various cultures. Although it is important to respect cultural beliefs and traditions, it is also crucial to approach such topics with critical thinking and skepticism..
Reviews for "The Top Curse: A Haunting Legacy of Sorrow and Doom"
1. John - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with "The Tope Curse." The story felt disjointed and confusing, with too many side plots that didn't add anything to the main narrative. The characters were also quite bland and underdeveloped, making it hard to connect with any of them. Additionally, the writing style was lackluster, lacking in creativity and depth. Overall, I found the book to be a tedious and unsatisfying read.
2. Emily - 1 star
I couldn't get through "The Tope Curse." The pacing was all over the place, with certain parts dragging on for too long while others felt rushed. The plot was also incredibly predictable, leaving no room for surprises or twists. I didn't find any of the characters particularly likable or relatable either. The book lacked originality and failed to engage me in any way. I would not recommend it.
3. David - 2 stars
"The Tope Curse" was an unimpressive read. The storyline was convoluted and hard to follow, making it difficult to stay engaged with the plot. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, with the characters spouting off cliché lines that added nothing to their development. The book also suffered from a lack of proper editing, with numerous grammatical errors and typos throughout. Overall, it was an underwhelming experience that I wouldn't recommend to others.
4. Sarah - 2 stars
I found "The Tope Curse" to be a letdown. The world-building was weak, and the descriptions lacked detail, leaving me struggling to envision the settings. The characters were shallow and one-dimensional, lacking any real depth or complexity. The pacing was also off, with moments that should have been thrilling or suspenseful falling flat. Overall, the book failed to captivate me or deliver on its promises, leading to my disappointment with the story.
5. Michael - 1 star
I regret wasting my time reading "The Tope Curse." The plot was predictable, and the twists were underwhelming, as if the author took the easiest route instead of exploring more creative possibilities. The dialogue felt unnatural and forced, failing to bring the characters to life. Additionally, there were several plot holes and inconsistencies that further detracted from the reading experience. Overall, I found the book to be uninspired and forgettable.