YEAR 13 LESSON FOURTEEN [23rd Oct 14]: Homework

The aim of this session was to smash the memory of the last lesson and explore the symbolic significance of the creature. The class were asked to consider how the DeLacey family is used by Shelley to shape meaning and consider how Shelley's representation of the creature could be considered  a sympathetic representation. Focus was placed upon how the DeLacey family are used by Shelley to represent the creature's HOPES and DREAMS and discussion considered the significance of the creature's behaviour in Chapter 16. Discussion considered the incredible significance of the line:
'I HAD LEARNED NOW TO MAKE MISCHIEF.'

The class considered the question:

WHAT IS THE SYMBOLIC SIGNIFICANCE OF THE CREATURE?

Below is a potential essay structure......

• Discussion considered how the brutal treatment endured by the creature shapes his behaviour. The idea that experience shapes behaviour links to the eighteenth century philosophy of John Locke. Shelley seems to be reflecting this philosophy through the experience of the creature. Perhaps Shelley is calling for society to embrace difference and is reflecting the destructive power of prejudice through the behaviour of the creature. This reading of the novel views the creature as a symbol through which Shelley is promoting the idea that society will benefit if people embrace difference and exhibit tolerance. It is an appeal for empathy. This reading views the novel as offering a practical guide for improving society. The novel is an appeal for a more compassionate world. Discussion considered Arthur Miller's view that '...tragedy...points the heroic finger at the enemies of man's freedom.' What is the enemy of man's freedom in this novel? Discussion also considered Aristotle's view that a tragedy should inspire the audience to feel a sense of 'Pity and Fear.' Can this novel be considered a tragedy? 

• Discussion also touched upon the creature being a symbol for the inability of Science to replicate the perfect divine architecture of the Natural World. You should know this argument. Relevant textual reference? Author's aim?

• Brief conclusion that makes a reference to a critical comment and attempts to offer some form of gothic context. For example, Angela Carter has stated that 'a gothic tale is a cruel tale'. There is certainly a lot of cruelty in this novel but it seems to have a very moral aim. Research required. Check my handout that contains the comments of the critics.

HOMEWORK: Students are expected to produce a 'TWO PARAGRAPH and a CONCLUSION' response to the essay question. This is a mini-essay. I expect students to identify KEY QUOTES to support your critical argument. Precise and relevant textual reference has been an issue so this task will allow students to demonstrate that they are developing the ability to identify the key quotes.

There are many different interpretations that explore the significance of the creature but this written task is our starting point. I need this work before Friday 31st October as I need to mark the essays before we return to the Factory Of Fun And Eternal Human Sunshine.

You lot need to show me that you have been listening, that you have been reading, and that you are capable of independent research and critical autonomy. This is a BIG task. I need to be reassured that you are familiar with the meaning being shaped through the creature's narrative.