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For Friday-Monday

Sorry, but I will be out until Monday. If you have questions or concerns, please email me.

Seniors
Your essay for this week is to write a 750-word analysis of The Truman Show. We have discussed various topics in class and throughout the movie. Please focus on ONE aspect of the film, and organize around a clear, critical thesis. I know it's tempting, but avoid summary of the plot. Instead, use specific examples and quotes from the film to develop your analysis. You should have at least one quote per paragraph, and your typed, revised version will also include a block quote.

When you are finished today, put your essay in the box, and we will discuss your revisions on Monday. As this is your DE assessment essay, I will eventually need two copies - one with your name and one without. Please include your notes with the essay for help in the revision process.

Remember that we will also start MAUS next week, so please bring your copies on Monday.

Sophomores
I know you will all have lots of questions on Monday, but today is a good opportunity to read -- to get ahead or to catch up. Use the study guide questions to help you focus on details as you read. These questions will provide the basis for your essays next week, so take notes as you read. Right now, your exam is scheduled for Wednesday, and we should be on track. Do not stop reading simply because I'm not there, in other words.

 Some things to consider:
  • How the book is structured and how that relates to meaning
  • How you feel about the creature
  • How advances in science play a pivotal role
  • How issues of ethics and morality are explored
  • How women are portrayed and how their stories parallel
  • How political/economical/cultural issues are discussed
  • How Shelley depicts marriage and parenthood
  • How fathers are represented and to what effect
  • How friendship functions as a necessary element of survival
  • How Victor and the creature represent their respective periods
  • How Victor and the creature can be seen as doubles, or "dopplegangers"
  • How education is examined and defined
  • How allusions are integrated throughout the text
  • How Nature exhibits both restorative and destructive force

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