Students were pushed through the world of the metaphor and asked to consider other features of form and structure that allow Marvell/Larkin/Shakespeare to shape meaning. The class discussion generated some very perceptive comments. Massive thanks to all.
The second session moved into a general overview of the first chapter of F.S. Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. Students were urged to consider the significance of the epigraph and consider how Fitzgerald presents the narrator. What do we learn about Carraway in the opening pages and what clues are provided as to the nature of the content that the reader can expect when reading this novel? Students were dragged towards key quotes such as 'I wanted no more riotous excursions with privileged glimpses into the human heart'....' there was something gorgeous about him'....'it was an extraordinary gift for hope'....'Gatsby turned out alright at the end; it is what preyed on Gatsby, what foul dust floated in the wake of his dreams that temporarily closed out my interest in the abortive sorrows and short-winded elations of men.' These quotes suggest the level of influence and admiration that Nick holds for Gatsby. The 'foul dust' also suggests some form of dramatic conflict. Students were also asked to consider the information offered by Fitzgerald that allows the reader to gauge the nature of Carraway's social and economic background and the significance of Carraway returning from the War and feeling like his home 'seemed like the ragged edge of the universe.'
HOMEWORK: Students are expected to select one of the essay titles and hand an essay to me next Monday. This is a significant piece of work. E-mail me or visit me in the Dept if you are having any problems or you have any queries.
Furthermore, students should read the first two chapters of Gatsby. Next week we will attempt to define the character of Nick and consider the significance of some of the key characters and locations. When reading, consider how the Valley of Ashes differs from the opulence of the Buchanan family home. How does Fitzgerald present Tom? Daisy? How would you describe the nature of their relationship? What do we learn about Myrtle? How would you describe George Wilson? What is Myrtle's attitude towards her husband? What are the key themes being explored in the first two chapters?
Below is a link to a BE CURIOUS resource that may provide some useful contextual information relating to Fitzgerald's famous novel. This blog entry will navigate you towards two documentaries that explore the life and times of Fitzgerald.
During our second session a gentleman entered the classroom and I informed the class that I had made a film about this classroom intruder. The gentleman was Chris Goodwin. Click on link below to access the film:
KEEP READING.
MLR.
The documentary about Mr Goodwin is surprisingly interesting!
ReplyDeleteWhy'surprising' Barney? I'm all digital ears!
ReplyDeleteI loved the whole part about how his educational philosophy is more influenced by musicians and poets than by conservative educational values.. I didn't really realise how liberal and radical he was in teaching!
ReplyDeleteyeah...he has some interesting and unconventional views. he really loves his music. it always amazed me that he became a headteacher. some of my colleagues would argue that he abandoned some of his ideals and had to make too many compromises when he moved through the teaching ranks but i still find him an engaging character. which is why i made the film. hope you enjoyed fil spil dancing down the corridor to captain beefheart. human chemistry in poetic motion. possibly.
ReplyDelete