The sermon began with a consideration of CHAPTER 14 of Shelley's Frankenstein and to what extent the De Lacey narrative could be considered a complete short story that reflects themes and ideas explored within the primary narrative. To what extent can this chapter be considered a reflection of the whole novel? Are there any features of this narrative than can be considered unique within the context of the novel? Is this a gothic short story?
The lesson then moved into a consideration of LOCATION AS SYMBOL and an exploration of CHAPTER 21, the significance of Victor's dreams, and the significance of Shelley's description of Victor as 'a shattered wreck...the shadow of a human being...I was a mere skeleton...I was doomed to live..'
The quality of class discussion was INSPIRING. Particular thanks to Lucianna, James, and 'Sorry I'm late' Kate for some particularly perceptive comments relating to Victor being imprisoned inside his own mind whilst being imprisoned in Ireland. The comments relating to Victor being represented as a dehumanised supernatural being were impressive. Really good work this afternoon folks.
We must continue to consider this novel as a deeply symbolic text. The recent essay was weak when considering how language, structure and form shape meaning and we need to address this weakness. Students offered some really credible comments when considering how location links to the transgression of the accepted boundary between Humanity and God and this informed and articulate response needs to be reflected in written work. THE SYMBOLIC SIGNIFICANCE OF LOCATION IS A CENTRAL FEATURE OF THE GOTHIC TRADITION.
HOMEWORK: Students need to provide one specific quote to place in my exemplar paragraph. You may need to provide one sentence of explanation. The paragraph is an A grade paragraph BUT your quote could push the paragraph into A*...choose the most powerful and appropriate specific textual reference.
Students then need to construct a paragraph relating to the significance of the Orkneys. Refer to the sheet I provided this afternoon.
Students also need to read Chapters 21 to 23. Next lesson we will discuss Ireland and the significance of Elizabeth's murder. We will also be discussing the De Lacey narrative in Chapter 14.
Click on the links below to access the DIFFERENT READINGS BBC resource that I mentioned in today's sermon. THIS IS ESSENTIAL READING:
10 possible readings:
http://m.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-12711091
Readers' readings of Frankenstein:
http://m.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-12737956
I will be handing back essays in the next session.
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