Poet Laureate Videos

Watch one of the videos posted on our blog.  Then, explore some of that poet's published work.   Comment on your impressions of the poet's video as well as the poetry you read.  Due by 2/26.

Hard Times, Book the Second

As you finish reading Book the Second, explore the site Fact and Fancy from The British Library. Consider how the elements of fancy or wonder (circus, fairy tales, allusions, satire) have contributed to the idea of "Reaping" as the second book is titled.

Hard Times -Book the Second, Ch. I-VII

Based upon your reading of Book the Second, Chapters I-VII, examine two key events: the arrival and development of James Harthouse & the factory unionizing meeting with Mr. Slackbridge.  Discuss why Dickens has included Harthouse and Slackbridge in the Book the Second.  What impact do you think they will have on the rest of the novel?

Boland's "It's a Woman's World" Sample Essays

HERE  you will find four sample essays from the 1998 poetry prompt on "It's a Woman's World" by Irish female poet Eavan Boland.   Evaluate at least 2 of the 4 samples (S, L, C, O) using the rubric on the last page of the .pdf found HERE.   Assign a score from 1-9, and explain (using the rubric and evidence from the essay) why it earned that score.

Favorite Poem

To kick off our study of poetry, I would like you to post a link to your favorite poem along with a brief explanation about why it is a poem that you enjoy and appreciate.

Mrs. Dalloway Wrap-Up

Comment on the resolution of the novel as well as the literary criticism assigned in the following articles: HERE   As you complete your essay on Septimus's purpose in the novel, consider the following exam prompt:
"1981. The meaning of some literary works is often enhanced by sustained allusion to myths, the Bible, or other works of literature. Select a literary work that makes use of such a sustained reference. Then write a well-organized essay in which you explain the allusion that predominates in the work and analyze how it enhances the work’s meaning."

Mrs. Dalloway (102-151)

Comment on this section of reading.  You may focus on Septimus's death so that you can cull resources and insights to expand your preliminary essay on his character.  We will be expanding that essay into our final essay on the novel instead of writing an additional paper.

Addendum: Post group notes on characters/scenes here as well.