Students were asked to consider the significance of Marlowe using the form of the play to express his ideas before considering how the form of the novel allows Shelley to express her ideas. The class were also encouraged to revisit the 'new ideas'/ philosophies linked to the Renaissance period and how these ideas link to the Enlightenment and the embracing of ideas that emphasise reason and individualism rather than traditionally accepted views of divine authority.
It is important that students are aware of the Renaissance ideas that were challenging traditional ideas of divine authority. Why are the discoveries of Copernicus and Galileo so important? Why might Faustus/Macbeth be considered to be conservative texts? Is Shelley's novel embracing new ideas or embracing traditional views?
Students were then introduced to the January 2010 exam paper. Students were placed into groups and asked to consider the following questions:
To what extent do you agree with the view that, in Frankenstein, Mary Shelley is exploring 'the dark side of the human psyche'?
Mephistophilis says, 'Why, this is hell, nor am I out of it.' To what extent do you think Marlowe presents life on earth as hellish in Doctor Faustus?
To what extent do you think gothic literature is characterised by a fascination with death?
'Gothic settings are desolate, alienating and full of menace.'
In the light of this comment, consider some of the ways in which writers use settings in the gothic texts you have read.
Consider the view that gothic writing often explores the powerlessness of humanity when faced with the power of the supernatural.
HOMEWORK: Students need to read the texts and list/memorise a series of key quotes. I would also encourage students to attempt essays and e-mail them to me for marking. You have a lot of AQA essay titles and I encourage all students to attempt two or three essays over the Easter break. STUDENTS SHOULD VISIT BE CURIOUS THROUGHOUT THE SPRING BREAK AS I WILL BE POSTING NOTES, ESSAYS AND PODCASTS.
EAT CHOCOLATE.
