The focus of this session was the use of language in Chapter 4 of Shelley's Frankenstein and how this use of language shapes meaning. The focus of the class discussion was the question:
WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT VICTOR THROUGH SHELLEY'S USE OF LANGUAGE IN CHAPTER 4?
Students were encouraged to focus upon the fact that Victor's narrative is retrospective and is full of remorse and guilt. Focus was also placed on the moments within this key chapter when Victor shifts from past to present tense in order to directly address Walton. Why does Shelley offer this change in language register? Comment of the day was AxL's reference to the word 'torture' and how this word reflects Victor's view of his experiment and allows Shelley to shape the didactic nature of the text.
The second section of this May Day Extravaganza considered the Faustus exam question:
TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU THINK THAT FAUSTUS'S GREATEST SIN IS HIS MISUSE OF THE SUPERNATURAL POWERS GIVEN TO HIM BY MEPHISTOPHILIS?
This is an interesting question as it could easily be argued that Faustus does not have any power and is just a victim of Mephistophilis and his evil manipulation. Furthermore, Faustus's greatest sin is clearly the fact that he sells his soul. This is an interesting question that we will revisit next week.
HOMEWORK: Students are encouraged to produce one essay from the mass of past questions that you have been offered over the last few weeks. The Chapter Four question should be attempted by ALL students. Don't forget to access all the assessment objectives.
Next week's session will begin with a consideration of the Section B question:
TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU AGREE THAT OBSESSION IS A SIGNIFICANT ELEMENT IN THE GOTHIC WRITING THAT YOU HAVE STUDIED?
This question should be the focus of your reading. Bring your copies of MACBETH.
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