Students will be working on the following assignment over the next few days.
Persuasive Essay-50pts
Topic-
Writing Task-The Stranger/The Outsider
Critics disagree over the actual translation of the title of Camus’ novel. The French title L’etranger can be translated as either The Stranger or The Outsider. Look at the definitions provided. You are to choose the term that is the best choice for the title of the work. You must support your argument with evidence from the text.
stranger-
a person with whom one has had no personal acquaintance: He is a perfect stranger to me.
a newcomer in a place or locality: a stranger in town.
an outsider: They want no strangers in on the club meetings
a person who is unacquainted with or unaccustomed to something (usually fol. by to): He is no stranger to poverty.
a person who is not a member of the family, group, community, or the like, as a visitor or guest: Our town shows hospitality to strangers.
outsider-
a person not belonging to a particular group, set, party, etc.: Society often regards the artist as an outsider.
a person unconnected or unacquainted with the matter in question: Not being a parent, I was regarded as an outsider.
a racehorse, sports team, or other competitor not considered likely to win or succeed.
a person or thing not within an enclosure, boundary, etc.
Brainstorm
Example-Stranger
Support
Example-Outsider
Support
2. Choose a title
· Select the term that is easiest to prove. Not necessarily the one you agree with. (Which title has the best examples?)
3. Organize
· Number the examples you will use so you know what order they will appear in.
· Pick one from the opposite column to dispute
4. Write it
-Intro-state the thesis. Which term best describes Meursault. General to Specific
-Body-
o Present-state the reason
o Support-prove it-use the book if it is a literary essay
o Explain-why does this help your argument?
-Conclusion-
o State why your arguments make sense.
Intro-
General-
A little more specific-
Very specific-
Body-
Present-
Support-
Explain-
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Stranger
Students have completed the following for The Stranger:
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 4
1. Does Meursault feel like he has anything to say to defend himself?
2. In your opinion, does Meursault believe that his crime was premeditated?
3. On p. 100, Meursault reveals the key to his character/personality. What is this?
4. What penalty does the prosecutor ask of the jury?
5. Does Meursault have faith that his attorney will convince the jury of his innocence?
6. Imagism is used on p. 104. “left me with the impression…. Was making me dizzy.” In your opinion, what is Meursault feelingat this point?
7. Why can’t Meursault return Marie’s smile in the courtroom?
8. What is Meursault’s sentence? In your opinion, is his reaction normal?
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 5
1. According to Meursault, why is witnessing an execution so important?
2. What is “the trouble with the guillotine”?
3. What is ironic about this when compared to how Meursault originally got into this predicament?
4. When Meursault’s situation finally “sinks in”, what are the two things he always thinks about?
5. What is Meursault’s pessimistic view on life and living?
6. Is Meursault a religious person? How do you know?
7. Meursault shows no respect for religion or the priest. Give one example of this.
8. What does the priest mean when he says, “your heart is blind.”?
9. In the last few paragraphs, how does Meursault finally relate to Maman?
10. Why does Meursault wish that a large crowd of spectators greet him with cries of hate at his execution?
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 4
1. Does Meursault feel like he has anything to say to defend himself?
2. In your opinion, does Meursault believe that his crime was premeditated?
3. On p. 100, Meursault reveals the key to his character/personality. What is this?
4. What penalty does the prosecutor ask of the jury?
5. Does Meursault have faith that his attorney will convince the jury of his innocence?
6. Imagism is used on p. 104. “left me with the impression…. Was making me dizzy.” In your opinion, what is Meursault feelingat this point?
7. Why can’t Meursault return Marie’s smile in the courtroom?
8. What is Meursault’s sentence? In your opinion, is his reaction normal?
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 5
1. According to Meursault, why is witnessing an execution so important?
2. What is “the trouble with the guillotine”?
3. What is ironic about this when compared to how Meursault originally got into this predicament?
4. When Meursault’s situation finally “sinks in”, what are the two things he always thinks about?
5. What is Meursault’s pessimistic view on life and living?
6. Is Meursault a religious person? How do you know?
7. Meursault shows no respect for religion or the priest. Give one example of this.
8. What does the priest mean when he says, “your heart is blind.”?
9. In the last few paragraphs, how does Meursault finally relate to Maman?
10. Why does Meursault wish that a large crowd of spectators greet him with cries of hate at his execution?
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The Stranger Part II chapter 3
The students worked on the following assignment today in class:
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 3
1. What is Meursault’s first impression of the jury?
2. What clues is the reader given to show that the Algerian court system is different than the U.S. Judicial System?
3. Who are the eight witnesses that will testify at Meursault’s trial?
4. A previous incident occurred between the caretaker and Meursault, which is briefly discussed during the trial. This leads to Camus’ title of the novel. What is the incident?
5. When Celeste, the fourth witness, is called to testify, how does he show support for Meursault?
6. How does the prosecutor attempt to prove that Meursault has no conscience?
7. What is the prosecutor implying when he questions Raymond? (refers to “chance” numerous times.)
8. Explain what Meursault means when he says, “it was back to my cell…sleep of the innocent. (p.97)
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 3
1. What is Meursault’s first impression of the jury?
2. What clues is the reader given to show that the Algerian court system is different than the U.S. Judicial System?
3. Who are the eight witnesses that will testify at Meursault’s trial?
4. A previous incident occurred between the caretaker and Meursault, which is briefly discussed during the trial. This leads to Camus’ title of the novel. What is the incident?
5. When Celeste, the fourth witness, is called to testify, how does he show support for Meursault?
6. How does the prosecutor attempt to prove that Meursault has no conscience?
7. What is the prosecutor implying when he questions Raymond? (refers to “chance” numerous times.)
8. Explain what Meursault means when he says, “it was back to my cell…sleep of the innocent. (p.97)
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Journal #9-Questioning Meursault
Comment on the importance of the following as they relate to a murder case:
whether or not a person believes in God
how many shots were fired
whether or not the suspect was upset at the passing of their mother
Also, what question(s) would you like to ask Meursault while he is in prison? Explain.
whether or not a person believes in God
how many shots were fired
whether or not the suspect was upset at the passing of their mother
Also, what question(s) would you like to ask Meursault while he is in prison? Explain.
The Stranger
The students completed the following assignment in class today:
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 2
1. Briefly describe Meursault’s prison cell. Is this what he had expected?
2. Who is Meursault’s first visitor?
3. Describe Marie’s mood during the visit.
4. In a sense, what item was more difficult for Meursault to lose than his freedom?
5. On p. 79, Meursault states that having “a memory” is “an advantage.” Briefly explain.
6. The last sentences on p. 81 refer to Meursault’s mother’s funeral and to what nights in prison are like. In your opinion, is there a connection between the two?
The Stranger-20pts
Part II-Chapter 2
1. Briefly describe Meursault’s prison cell. Is this what he had expected?
2. Who is Meursault’s first visitor?
3. Describe Marie’s mood during the visit.
4. In a sense, what item was more difficult for Meursault to lose than his freedom?
5. On p. 79, Meursault states that having “a memory” is “an advantage.” Briefly explain.
6. The last sentences on p. 81 refer to Meursault’s mother’s funeral and to what nights in prison are like. In your opinion, is there a connection between the two?
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Stranger
Today the students completed the following assignment:
The Stranger-Part II
Chapter 1
1. What has happened to Meursault?
2. Is he taking his circumstances seriously? Give an example.
3. What question does the attorney feel compelled to ask?
4. What explanation does Meursault give regarding his “nature”?
5. How many times did Meursault fire his revolver?
6. The magistrate becomes frustrated with Meursault. What does he retrieve from his filing cabinet?
7. What’s the BIG question the magistrate finally asks Meursault?
8. On p. 70, Meursault says, “I thought about it for a minute and said that more than sorry I felt kind of annoyed.” Does
Meursault have a conscience? Why or why not?
9. In your opinion, does Meursault feel complemented when referred to as Monsieur Antichrist?
The students have also completed the following assignment from last week:
Persuasive Essay-50pts
Topic-
Writing Task-Moral/Immoral/Amoral
Look at the definitions provided. You are to choose the term that best describes Meursault throughout the first part of the novel. You must support your argument with evidence from the text.
Moral-of, pertaining to, or concerned with the principles or rules of right conduct or the distinction between right and wrong; ethical: moral attitudes.
Immoral-violating moral principles; not conforming to the patterns of conduct usually accepted or established as consistent with principles of personal and social ethics.
Amoral-not involving questions of right or wrong; without moral quality; neither moral nor immoral.
The Stranger-Part II
Chapter 1
1. What has happened to Meursault?
2. Is he taking his circumstances seriously? Give an example.
3. What question does the attorney feel compelled to ask?
4. What explanation does Meursault give regarding his “nature”?
5. How many times did Meursault fire his revolver?
6. The magistrate becomes frustrated with Meursault. What does he retrieve from his filing cabinet?
7. What’s the BIG question the magistrate finally asks Meursault?
8. On p. 70, Meursault says, “I thought about it for a minute and said that more than sorry I felt kind of annoyed.” Does
Meursault have a conscience? Why or why not?
9. In your opinion, does Meursault feel complemented when referred to as Monsieur Antichrist?
The students have also completed the following assignment from last week:
Persuasive Essay-50pts
Topic-
Writing Task-Moral/Immoral/Amoral
Look at the definitions provided. You are to choose the term that best describes Meursault throughout the first part of the novel. You must support your argument with evidence from the text.
Moral-of, pertaining to, or concerned with the principles or rules of right conduct or the distinction between right and wrong; ethical: moral attitudes.
Immoral-violating moral principles; not conforming to the patterns of conduct usually accepted or established as consistent with principles of personal and social ethics.
Amoral-not involving questions of right or wrong; without moral quality; neither moral nor immoral.
Monday, December 1, 2008
The Stranger chapter 6
The students began working on the following assignment today:
The Stranger
Chapter 6-30pts
1. When leaving for the beach, whom do Ray, Meursault and Marie see across the street?
2. Who is Masson? How often is he here?
3. When they first arrive at their destination, what do Marie, Meursault and Masson embark upon?
4. Who do the three men see on the beach?
5. On page 53, what is symbolic about Meursault’s statement, “The blazing sand looked red to me now.”?
6. What happens to Raymond?
7. On the second trip to the beach, where do the three men find the two Arabs?
8. Do the Arabs seem frightened by the approach? Why or why not?
9. What does Raymond consider doing to the Arabs?
10. Why don’t the Arabs react to this discussion unfolding directly in front of them?
11. On page 57, Meursault returns to the beach by himself. Camus uses symbolism when he states “There was the same
dazzling red glare,” and “With every blade of light….” In your opinion, what is being inferred?
12. When Meursault encounters the lone Arab, he is once again overcome by the sun’s heat. What event does the heat
force him to recall?
13. What occurs to “shatter the harmony” of Meursault’s day?
14. Why does Meursault feel threatened and consequently pull out a gun?
15. On page 59 (last sentence), what is meant by “it was like knocking four quick times on the door of unhappiness.” Explain
briefly.
The Stranger
Chapter 6-30pts
1. When leaving for the beach, whom do Ray, Meursault and Marie see across the street?
2. Who is Masson? How often is he here?
3. When they first arrive at their destination, what do Marie, Meursault and Masson embark upon?
4. Who do the three men see on the beach?
5. On page 53, what is symbolic about Meursault’s statement, “The blazing sand looked red to me now.”?
6. What happens to Raymond?
7. On the second trip to the beach, where do the three men find the two Arabs?
8. Do the Arabs seem frightened by the approach? Why or why not?
9. What does Raymond consider doing to the Arabs?
10. Why don’t the Arabs react to this discussion unfolding directly in front of them?
11. On page 57, Meursault returns to the beach by himself. Camus uses symbolism when he states “There was the same
dazzling red glare,” and “With every blade of light….” In your opinion, what is being inferred?
12. When Meursault encounters the lone Arab, he is once again overcome by the sun’s heat. What event does the heat
force him to recall?
13. What occurs to “shatter the harmony” of Meursault’s day?
14. Why does Meursault feel threatened and consequently pull out a gun?
15. On page 59 (last sentence), what is meant by “it was like knocking four quick times on the door of unhappiness.” Explain
briefly.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
The Stranger/Study Island
Today the students completed the following project:
The Stranger
Chapter 5-20pts
Why is Meursault’s boss upset with him?
What is Meursault’s response to Marie asking him if he wanted to marry her?
What is Meursault’s description of Paris? Why would Marie want to see Paris?
What do people think of Meursault putting Maman in a home?
The students then worked on Study Island. Making Predictions & Connotation/Denotation
The Stranger
Chapter 5-20pts
Why is Meursault’s boss upset with him?
What is Meursault’s response to Marie asking him if he wanted to marry her?
What is Meursault’s description of Paris? Why would Marie want to see Paris?
What do people think of Meursault putting Maman in a home?
The students then worked on Study Island. Making Predictions & Connotation/Denotation
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Algiers Research
Use the links I have provided, and respond to the following questions in complete sentences:
- Why is Algiers, located in northern Africa, so heavily populated by French speaking people in The Stranger?
- What language do the majority of citizens speak today?
- What are the three parts of the city made up of?
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Stranger
The students completed the following assignment in class today:
The Stranger
Chapter 4-20pts
Why does Meursault like Marie? Is his response to her question about if he loves her typical? In other words, is it a response you would expect from him? Why?
Why doesn’t Meursault get the police when Raymond is brutally beating the woman?
What is peculiar about the “nice moment” Meursault and Raymond share?
Why does he think of his mother at the end of the chapter?
The Stranger
Chapter 4-20pts
Why does Meursault like Marie? Is his response to her question about if he loves her typical? In other words, is it a response you would expect from him? Why?
Why doesn’t Meursault get the police when Raymond is brutally beating the woman?
What is peculiar about the “nice moment” Meursault and Raymond share?
Why does he think of his mother at the end of the chapter?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Stranger
Today in class the students completed the following assignment:
The Stranger
Chapter 3-20pts
What are Meursault’s comments about washing his hands an example of? In other words, how does this fit his character?
How does the scene with Salamano and his dog reflect Meursault’s philosophy of life? Consider his treatment of the dog.
List everything you know about Raymond Sintes. (at least 4 things) Which of these two characters, Raymond and Meursault, do you feel is more dangerous? Why?
Why does Meursault write the letter?
The Stranger
Chapter 3-20pts
What are Meursault’s comments about washing his hands an example of? In other words, how does this fit his character?
How does the scene with Salamano and his dog reflect Meursault’s philosophy of life? Consider his treatment of the dog.
List everything you know about Raymond Sintes. (at least 4 things) Which of these two characters, Raymond and Meursault, do you feel is more dangerous? Why?
Why does Meursault write the letter?
Monday, November 17, 2008
Journal #8-Meursault
Based on the events of chapters 1 & 2 of The Stranger, what is your first impression of Meursault? Consider everything he has done.
-His reaction to the news of his mother’s death,
-smoking at the funeral,
-falling asleep,
-his comments about his mother’s friends.
-going for a swim
-relationship with Marie
Should he be perceived as an immoral person? Why or why not?
-His reaction to the news of his mother’s death,
-smoking at the funeral,
-falling asleep,
-his comments about his mother’s friends.
-going for a swim
-relationship with Marie
Should he be perceived as an immoral person? Why or why not?
The Stranger/Study Island
The students completed the following assingment in-class and then worked on a Study Island assignment dealing with context:
The Stranger
Chapter 2
Why would Marie give a little “start” when she finds out about Meursault’s mother?
When Meursault wakes up and notices Marie is gone, what does he do? What do you learn about him emotionally?
What is the significance of the way this chapter ends? Look closely at the exact words used.
The Stranger
Chapter 2
Why would Marie give a little “start” when she finds out about Meursault’s mother?
When Meursault wakes up and notices Marie is gone, what does he do? What do you learn about him emotionally?
What is the significance of the way this chapter ends? Look closely at the exact words used.
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Stranger ch 1
The students completed the following assignment in class today:
The Stranger
Pgs 12-18
What would be considered socially inappropriate about Meursault’s statement about going for a walk in the country? Consider the tone of his statement.
With all of the things Meursault notices, one would think he is a very observant person. Although this may be true, what does he not know about his mother?
The nurse makes a comment to Meursault about “going too fast/slow.” What is she talking about on a literal and symbolic level?
The chapter closes with Meursault being happy about something? What is it? What types of things make him happy?
List everything he has done so far-
-learned of mother’s death
-excited about long weekend
-etc.
The Stranger
Pgs 12-18
What would be considered socially inappropriate about Meursault’s statement about going for a walk in the country? Consider the tone of his statement.
With all of the things Meursault notices, one would think he is a very observant person. Although this may be true, what does he not know about his mother?
The nurse makes a comment to Meursault about “going too fast/slow.” What is she talking about on a literal and symbolic level?
The chapter closes with Meursault being happy about something? What is it? What types of things make him happy?
List everything he has done so far-
-learned of mother’s death
-excited about long weekend
-etc.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
The Stranger
The students completed the following assingment in class today:
The Stranger
Pgs 3-11
Based on the first paragraph alone, what type of relationship do you think the narrator had with his mother? Explain.
What conclusion can you draw from Meursault’s (the narrator) explanation as to why he didn’t visit his mother much?
When he is in the room with the caretaker and his mother’s casket, what is Meursault focused on? What does this say about what is important to him?
Why does the caretaker apologize for his comment about “running after the hearse”? What does Meursault’s response to the comment say about him?
Is it socially acceptable to smoke in the presence of your deceased mother?
What observations does Meursault make about his mother’s friends? List at least 3 specific examples of descriptions from the book.
The Stranger
Pgs 3-11
Based on the first paragraph alone, what type of relationship do you think the narrator had with his mother? Explain.
What conclusion can you draw from Meursault’s (the narrator) explanation as to why he didn’t visit his mother much?
When he is in the room with the caretaker and his mother’s casket, what is Meursault focused on? What does this say about what is important to him?
Why does the caretaker apologize for his comment about “running after the hearse”? What does Meursault’s response to the comment say about him?
Is it socially acceptable to smoke in the presence of your deceased mother?
What observations does Meursault make about his mother’s friends? List at least 3 specific examples of descriptions from the book.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Journal #7-Morality
In your own words, define morality. Also, explain how you determine what is moral. Does it come from you? A creator? How do you know the difference between right and wrong? Can moral issues be a matter of opinion? Explain.
Final Essay
We are currently finishing up the final assingment of the 1st marking period.
- Persuasive Essay-50pts
Topic-
Writing Tasks
Montana 1948 represents the shattering of David's innocence and presents many contradictions. In a well organized essay, explain how this statement is true or false using specific textual evidence.
David describes his parent's only error as trying to be "loyal to both family and justice". Why does he perceive this to be true? In a well organized essay, explain how this statement is true or false using specific textual evidence.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
HW/Study Island
Students are to complete the study island assignment writing1 by Friday.
Students have to complete the following assignment by tomorrow:
Montana 1948 epilogue (20pts)
1. On page 165 we learn that David's family moved away from Bentrock almost immediately, never to return. Somewhat suprisingly, it his his mother, not his father, who is the author of their departure. What does this show about her? About Wesley Hayden?
2. What do you make of David's remark on page 167 that "Frank's death was an unbridgeable gap between us?" And later, that "If there was any sense, any purpose at all in Uncle Frank's suicide, if he killed himself for any reason, it was so these people--his wife, his parents, his brother, his sister-in-law--could be reunited after his death"? Is Wesley saying something about the relationship between the future and the past for a Western town like Bentrock?
3. On page 169, looking into his empty house, David comments on the irony of his family's exile. What is that irony? What does it say about the price paid for justice?
4. David's father returns to his first career, becoming a lawyer. David is amazed by this. As he says on page 170, "after what I observed as a child in Bentrock, I could never believe in the rule of law again. That my father could continue his profession I attributed to his ability to segment parts of his life and keep one from intruding on another." What does he mean? Is this true? Has his father always demonstrated such an ability?
5. Consider also the ways in which his father's career change is an appropriate one, under the circumstances. How is being a lawyer different from being a peace officer?
6. On page 170 we learn that David has become a history teacher as an adult. He comments at length on the ways in which this is both appropriate and ironic, too. Explain. How do we usually remember and record history?
7. David makes a case, on page 171, that the incidents in Bentrock in the summer of 1948 directly caused the deaths of three people, in addition to his uncle: Len, his grandfather, and his father. Yet, all three died of natural causes. What does he mean? Consider the cause of death and circumstances in each case.
8. On pages 172-3, David as the adult narrator of the story briefly flashes back to a memory of an afternoon in the company of Marie and her boyfriend Ronnie. What's this a memory of? Why is it so compelling for him? Consider the actual game they play, and why it appealed to him at the time, appeals to him still. What sort of world is he remembering, even wishing for?
9. Consider the final scene of the novel, in which David's wife Betsy questions his father at Thanksgiving dinner. First of all, what's the significance of Thanksgiving? What does it commemorate?
Students have to complete the following assignment by tomorrow:
Montana 1948 epilogue (20pts)
1. On page 165 we learn that David's family moved away from Bentrock almost immediately, never to return. Somewhat suprisingly, it his his mother, not his father, who is the author of their departure. What does this show about her? About Wesley Hayden?
2. What do you make of David's remark on page 167 that "Frank's death was an unbridgeable gap between us?" And later, that "If there was any sense, any purpose at all in Uncle Frank's suicide, if he killed himself for any reason, it was so these people--his wife, his parents, his brother, his sister-in-law--could be reunited after his death"? Is Wesley saying something about the relationship between the future and the past for a Western town like Bentrock?
3. On page 169, looking into his empty house, David comments on the irony of his family's exile. What is that irony? What does it say about the price paid for justice?
4. David's father returns to his first career, becoming a lawyer. David is amazed by this. As he says on page 170, "after what I observed as a child in Bentrock, I could never believe in the rule of law again. That my father could continue his profession I attributed to his ability to segment parts of his life and keep one from intruding on another." What does he mean? Is this true? Has his father always demonstrated such an ability?
5. Consider also the ways in which his father's career change is an appropriate one, under the circumstances. How is being a lawyer different from being a peace officer?
6. On page 170 we learn that David has become a history teacher as an adult. He comments at length on the ways in which this is both appropriate and ironic, too. Explain. How do we usually remember and record history?
7. David makes a case, on page 171, that the incidents in Bentrock in the summer of 1948 directly caused the deaths of three people, in addition to his uncle: Len, his grandfather, and his father. Yet, all three died of natural causes. What does he mean? Consider the cause of death and circumstances in each case.
8. On pages 172-3, David as the adult narrator of the story briefly flashes back to a memory of an afternoon in the company of Marie and her boyfriend Ronnie. What's this a memory of? Why is it so compelling for him? Consider the actual game they play, and why it appealed to him at the time, appeals to him still. What sort of world is he remembering, even wishing for?
9. Consider the final scene of the novel, in which David's wife Betsy questions his father at Thanksgiving dinner. First of all, what's the significance of Thanksgiving? What does it commemorate?
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Study Island/Montana 1948
The students have two assignments that they are working on simultaneously. In class, students are working on completing 4 tasks assigned through Study Island. These assignments are due at the end of the day Monday. At home the students are to finish reading Montana 1948 and complete the following assignment by Monday:
Montana 1948 pgs 142-162 20pts
1. David’s mother must protect her home from Dale Paris and his clan. How does she handle the situation? What does this tell us about her character?
2. On page 143, what does Gail tell Wes to do with Frank? Why has her opinion changed? What would you have said in her situation?
3. Opinion: Why do you think Frank has confessed at this time? What is his motive? Has he underestimated his brother, or has he estimated correctly?
4. Who were the Highdog Brothers? Why were they chasing Wes and Cordell? What did Frank do to them? Why did Wes tell this story to David?
5. What did Wes find in the basement?
6. Opinion: What is Uncle Frank’s motive for committing suicide? Does it make sense to you? Does it change your opinion of Uncle Frank?
7. How did Uncle Frank’s suicide solve all the family’s problems?
8. What did David feel towards Uncle Frank when it was over? Why do you think he felt that way?
Montana 1948 pgs 142-162 20pts
1. David’s mother must protect her home from Dale Paris and his clan. How does she handle the situation? What does this tell us about her character?
2. On page 143, what does Gail tell Wes to do with Frank? Why has her opinion changed? What would you have said in her situation?
3. Opinion: Why do you think Frank has confessed at this time? What is his motive? Has he underestimated his brother, or has he estimated correctly?
4. Who were the Highdog Brothers? Why were they chasing Wes and Cordell? What did Frank do to them? Why did Wes tell this story to David?
5. What did Wes find in the basement?
6. Opinion: What is Uncle Frank’s motive for committing suicide? Does it make sense to you? Does it change your opinion of Uncle Frank?
7. How did Uncle Frank’s suicide solve all the family’s problems?
8. What did David feel towards Uncle Frank when it was over? Why do you think he felt that way?
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
HW for Thursday
Students are to complete the following assignment for Thursday 10/23:
Montana 1948 pgs 126-140 20pts
1. On pages 126 to 129, David walks to town. En route, he experiences a disturbing new train of thought. What is that train of thought? How might this represent a significant turning point in his life?
2. On pages 130 to 140, we reach one of the climaxes of the novel (novels, unlike short stories, can have several climaxes, just as a novel can more easily accommodate more than one protagonist; this scene, you might say, is the "climax" of the tale for David's mother.) On its surface, this scene might come from any number of other novels or films set in the West. How so? And more importantly, what is different here?
3. What do you make of Len and David's mother's embrace on page 140? (It's a small detail, but look at the short paragraph half way down the page where "Len step[s] back."
Montana 1948 pgs 126-140 20pts
1. On pages 126 to 129, David walks to town. En route, he experiences a disturbing new train of thought. What is that train of thought? How might this represent a significant turning point in his life?
2. On pages 130 to 140, we reach one of the climaxes of the novel (novels, unlike short stories, can have several climaxes, just as a novel can more easily accommodate more than one protagonist; this scene, you might say, is the "climax" of the tale for David's mother.) On its surface, this scene might come from any number of other novels or films set in the West. How so? And more importantly, what is different here?
3. What do you make of Len and David's mother's embrace on page 140? (It's a small detail, but look at the short paragraph half way down the page where "Len step[s] back."
Journal #6-Family
In the novel, Frank's parents go to David's house to defend their son and demand his release. Is this an acceptable action for parents to take considering the circumstances of Frank's imprisonment? In other words, should parents defend their children no matter what? Should Frank have anyone on his side?
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Montana 1948
Today in class we completed the following assignment:
Montana 1948-pgs 115-125 (20pts)
1. On pages 115-117, David's grandfather arrives with his grandmother to demand Frank's release. Here's a question; why do you think he brings his wife along, since she says almost nothing? (In fact, even David notices her failure to claim Frank as her son....)
2. Regarding the same scene, on page 116, David's father says that "This isn't about family....It's a legal matter," to which his father replies, "Bull----. Then why have you got him locked up here and not over in the jail?" Is his grandfather correct? Who is winning this argument?
3. Assess the way David's grandfather treats his father in general in this scene.
4. On page 116, David is briefly afraid that his grandfather is going to pull a gun, so afraid in fact that he cries out. Instead, his grandfather produces a cigar. Apart from the obvious sexual symbolism (a cigar is another version of a gun, a male phallus), what else does it signify?
5. David's grandfather says to his father on page 119, "That ----ing uniform. If I could have gotten you in one, maybe we wouldn't have this problem." This is obviously an oversimplification of the situation, but it shows a great deal about grandfather Hayden's logic. He is accusing his son of failing to be a good soldier. What does this mean? What does a soldier do? How has Wesley Hayden failed to live up to this definition?
6. Consider also Grandfather Hayden's remarks on the following pages, beginning with "What the hell am I supposed to think?" and concluding with, "Is that why I gave you that badge?" What sort of authority is his grandfather claiming? How far does he believe his will to extend over others?
7. On page 121, David reminds us that he's listening to the whole conversation through the heating ducts, and suddenly realizes that his Uncle Frank is probably doing the same thing. Then he has a realization, more eerie and profound still, that his Uncle could, at this moment, speak directly to him without being heard by anybody in the living room. What do you make of this? Why does this possibility concern him so much?
8. On page 123 David comes downstairs and sees his mother and father in the kitchen. Have we seen this scene before in the novel? Where? And what do you make of David's assertion, made on page 124, that "this was the moment I knew my father would die someday"? In what sense is his father's mortal nature imbedded in the scene?
9. On page 124, David grieves for his horse, Nutty. Why is this grief so acute for him? What does the horse represent to him? What, beyond the companionship of a responsive animal, is being lost? (An additional connection you can make: on page 16, we learned that David's father's limp is caused by an accident with a horse when he was 16. Consider this as you fathom the metaphoric nature of horses in the novel.)
Montana 1948-pgs 115-125 (20pts)
1. On pages 115-117, David's grandfather arrives with his grandmother to demand Frank's release. Here's a question; why do you think he brings his wife along, since she says almost nothing? (In fact, even David notices her failure to claim Frank as her son....)
2. Regarding the same scene, on page 116, David's father says that "This isn't about family....It's a legal matter," to which his father replies, "Bull----. Then why have you got him locked up here and not over in the jail?" Is his grandfather correct? Who is winning this argument?
3. Assess the way David's grandfather treats his father in general in this scene.
4. On page 116, David is briefly afraid that his grandfather is going to pull a gun, so afraid in fact that he cries out. Instead, his grandfather produces a cigar. Apart from the obvious sexual symbolism (a cigar is another version of a gun, a male phallus), what else does it signify?
5. David's grandfather says to his father on page 119, "That ----ing uniform. If I could have gotten you in one, maybe we wouldn't have this problem." This is obviously an oversimplification of the situation, but it shows a great deal about grandfather Hayden's logic. He is accusing his son of failing to be a good soldier. What does this mean? What does a soldier do? How has Wesley Hayden failed to live up to this definition?
6. Consider also Grandfather Hayden's remarks on the following pages, beginning with "What the hell am I supposed to think?" and concluding with, "Is that why I gave you that badge?" What sort of authority is his grandfather claiming? How far does he believe his will to extend over others?
7. On page 121, David reminds us that he's listening to the whole conversation through the heating ducts, and suddenly realizes that his Uncle Frank is probably doing the same thing. Then he has a realization, more eerie and profound still, that his Uncle could, at this moment, speak directly to him without being heard by anybody in the living room. What do you make of this? Why does this possibility concern him so much?
8. On page 123 David comes downstairs and sees his mother and father in the kitchen. Have we seen this scene before in the novel? Where? And what do you make of David's assertion, made on page 124, that "this was the moment I knew my father would die someday"? In what sense is his father's mortal nature imbedded in the scene?
9. On page 124, David grieves for his horse, Nutty. Why is this grief so acute for him? What does the horse represent to him? What, beyond the companionship of a responsive animal, is being lost? (An additional connection you can make: on page 16, we learned that David's father's limp is caused by an accident with a horse when he was 16. Consider this as you fathom the metaphoric nature of horses in the novel.)
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Essay 50pts
We will be working on the following essay in class over the next few days:
Support or oppose Wes’s decision to lock Frank up in the basement and not the jail. Consider everyone involved. Is he protecting Frank, himself, his family, the town? Is this special treatment?
Your essay should have at least 3 examples supporting your argument and 1 attacking an opposing point.
Support or oppose Wes’s decision to lock Frank up in the basement and not the jail. Consider everyone involved. Is he protecting Frank, himself, his family, the town? Is this special treatment?
Your essay should have at least 3 examples supporting your argument and 1 attacking an opposing point.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
HW due Wednesday
Students are to complete the following for HW:
Montana 1948 pgs 105-114 (20pts)
1. The first matter of the chapter is the burial of Marie Little Soldier. Her family has chosen not to have her buried locally, but to take her back to North Dakota. On page 105, David's father says, "I tried to tell Mrs. Little Soldier that this was Marie's home also and that we thought of her as a member of the family, but she didn't want to hear..." What's odd about this remark? And why does David's mother "nod knowingly" before she answers?
2. On page 106, David describes his father's approach to a criminal investigation, comparing his present investigation to one several years before. What does this description show about the way the law is conducted in Montana? How is this different from the way we expect the law to be applied?
3. What is the particular significance of the model of the B-29 that David is working on when his uncle and father arrive at the house on page 107? Remember that the author could have had David doing anything at all--the model is a carefully made, perhaps symbolic choice. Consider its variety of meanings. (There's no one right answer here...)
4. Why is Uncle Frank carrying "a small satchel"? Usually--in virtually every other scene in the novel when Uncle Frank comes to the house--he carries a doctor's bag. Even David notes the change. What's the meaning of the change?
5. On page 108, after David's father emerges alone from the basement, he drinks liquor. What's the significance of the brand he drinks? And why does David say that he "held the glass to the rain-streaked window as if he were examining it for impurities"?
Montana 1948 pgs 105-114 (20pts)
1. The first matter of the chapter is the burial of Marie Little Soldier. Her family has chosen not to have her buried locally, but to take her back to North Dakota. On page 105, David's father says, "I tried to tell Mrs. Little Soldier that this was Marie's home also and that we thought of her as a member of the family, but she didn't want to hear..." What's odd about this remark? And why does David's mother "nod knowingly" before she answers?
2. On page 106, David describes his father's approach to a criminal investigation, comparing his present investigation to one several years before. What does this description show about the way the law is conducted in Montana? How is this different from the way we expect the law to be applied?
3. What is the particular significance of the model of the B-29 that David is working on when his uncle and father arrive at the house on page 107? Remember that the author could have had David doing anything at all--the model is a carefully made, perhaps symbolic choice. Consider its variety of meanings. (There's no one right answer here...)
4. Why is Uncle Frank carrying "a small satchel"? Usually--in virtually every other scene in the novel when Uncle Frank comes to the house--he carries a doctor's bag. Even David notes the change. What's the meaning of the change?
5. On page 108, after David's father emerges alone from the basement, he drinks liquor. What's the significance of the brand he drinks? And why does David say that he "held the glass to the rain-streaked window as if he were examining it for impurities"?
Journal #5-violence
As a society, are we too violent? Do we take violence and violent acts seriously? Explain your thoughts using several specific examples. Relate this to why David would not have much trouble shooting Frank.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
HW
Montana 1948 pgs 82-86 (20pts)
1. On page 82, David sees his father and uncle talking. What's the first strange thing he notices? What is the significance of this?
2. Why does David pantomime shooting his uncle? What would his motive be for murder?
3. As the scene closes on page 84, David notes that "My father and Uncle Frank walked off together, their broad shoulders almost touching." What are we meant to think has transpired between them?
4. What's wrong--or insufficient--about David's father's remarks to his wife on the return drive (page 85)?
5. What is the significance of Marie's strange remark on page 86? ("He's hard to see when you look for him.") What's hard to see? What's David been looking for?
1. On page 82, David sees his father and uncle talking. What's the first strange thing he notices? What is the significance of this?
2. Why does David pantomime shooting his uncle? What would his motive be for murder?
3. As the scene closes on page 84, David notes that "My father and Uncle Frank walked off together, their broad shoulders almost touching." What are we meant to think has transpired between them?
4. What's wrong--or insufficient--about David's father's remarks to his wife on the return drive (page 85)?
5. What is the significance of Marie's strange remark on page 86? ("He's hard to see when you look for him.") What's hard to see? What's David been looking for?
HW due Wednesday
Montana 1948 pgs 72-82 (20pts)
1. David's grandfather, on the next page, lets slip that his son Frank has "always been partial to red meat." He is speaking about Indian women, of course, but the metaphor he chooses is telling. What does it show about him? How does he seem to feel about his son's improprieties?
2. The novel then moves to flashback, returning us to a distant memory of Frank's bachelor party. Again, David relays an overheard conversation. Look to page 75--here, his father delivers a drunken speech about the "Hayden boys," describing them as a kind of fraternity of lawlessness and macho bravado. "We are the law!" he says. Then he vomits. Explain the connection between this scene and the statement on page 21 that David's father is a man "who tried to turn two ways at once" (21).
3. On page 76 we meet David's grandmother. How is she different from the other women in the novel, especially David's own mother? What is this meant to show?
4. On page 77, David confesses his erotic attraction for his Aunt Gloria, and describes a scene when, bedridden, she tended to him. He even pretends to be asleep, in order that he may enjoy her closeness to him: "as she bent down to feel my forehead," David confesses, "I could smell her perfume." Does this arrangement--an erotic attraction in the midst of medical care--remind you of anything else in the novel?
5. Subsequently, David overhears a whispered conversation between his aunt and his uncle, then the squeaking of their bedsprings. What's going on here? Does this scene change, if briefly, or sense of Uncle Frank the Indian molester?
6. On page 79-80, David is given an automatic pistol by his grandfather and told to go shoot coyotes. David says of handguns: "They were something not serious, not for bringing down game but for shooting as an activity in and of itself...." How is this gun different from the guns David's father has given him and trained him to use? Is it significant that it comes from his grandfather? Does it have a symbolic meaning?
7. What is the double meaning of the two paragraphs on page 80 that begin: "I shot up the entire box of bullets." (Consider that in the scene immediately preceding, David has experienced powerful erotic sensations at his aunt's perfume--and disgust as well.)
8. Of the magpie that he shoots, David says on page 81, "I hadn't even known it but I needed to kill something." What is he struggling with? Why must his anger manifest itself in violence?
9. Continue your interpretation on page 82, with the paragraph that begins "I felt the way I did when I woke from an especially disturbing and powerful dream....." Pay particular attention to the lines: "I realized that these strange, unthought-of connections--sex and death, lust and violence, desire and degradation--are there, there, deep in even a good heart's chambers."
1. David's grandfather, on the next page, lets slip that his son Frank has "always been partial to red meat." He is speaking about Indian women, of course, but the metaphor he chooses is telling. What does it show about him? How does he seem to feel about his son's improprieties?
2. The novel then moves to flashback, returning us to a distant memory of Frank's bachelor party. Again, David relays an overheard conversation. Look to page 75--here, his father delivers a drunken speech about the "Hayden boys," describing them as a kind of fraternity of lawlessness and macho bravado. "We are the law!" he says. Then he vomits. Explain the connection between this scene and the statement on page 21 that David's father is a man "who tried to turn two ways at once" (21).
3. On page 76 we meet David's grandmother. How is she different from the other women in the novel, especially David's own mother? What is this meant to show?
4. On page 77, David confesses his erotic attraction for his Aunt Gloria, and describes a scene when, bedridden, she tended to him. He even pretends to be asleep, in order that he may enjoy her closeness to him: "as she bent down to feel my forehead," David confesses, "I could smell her perfume." Does this arrangement--an erotic attraction in the midst of medical care--remind you of anything else in the novel?
5. Subsequently, David overhears a whispered conversation between his aunt and his uncle, then the squeaking of their bedsprings. What's going on here? Does this scene change, if briefly, or sense of Uncle Frank the Indian molester?
6. On page 79-80, David is given an automatic pistol by his grandfather and told to go shoot coyotes. David says of handguns: "They were something not serious, not for bringing down game but for shooting as an activity in and of itself...." How is this gun different from the guns David's father has given him and trained him to use? Is it significant that it comes from his grandfather? Does it have a symbolic meaning?
7. What is the double meaning of the two paragraphs on page 80 that begin: "I shot up the entire box of bullets." (Consider that in the scene immediately preceding, David has experienced powerful erotic sensations at his aunt's perfume--and disgust as well.)
8. Of the magpie that he shoots, David says on page 81, "I hadn't even known it but I needed to kill something." What is he struggling with? Why must his anger manifest itself in violence?
9. Continue your interpretation on page 82, with the paragraph that begins "I felt the way I did when I woke from an especially disturbing and powerful dream....." Pay particular attention to the lines: "I realized that these strange, unthought-of connections--sex and death, lust and violence, desire and degradation--are there, there, deep in even a good heart's chambers."
Monday, October 6, 2008
Montana 1948 HW
Students should have the following assignment completed for tomorrow.
Montana 1948-20pts pgs 57-72
1. As the second chapter begins, we see David Hayden begin to reconstruct his father's investigation. We are reminded that, in large measure, the story of what happened that summer in Montana is hearsay and deduction. How accurate do you suppose are David's conclusions? Do the three deductions presented on the following pages give us confidence in his ability to ferret out the truth? Why or why not?
2. Ollie Young Bear--his role in the story is slight. In fact, he virtually disappears after this one scene. Why is he in the story? What is the significance of the fact that he has a white wife?
3. What's important about the scene in the bowling alley on page 59? What does it show about David, about his father?
4. What's the significance of the weather in the scene on page 63, when David and his mother are temporarily banished from the house?
5. On page 65, David's mother delivers a short soliloquy on the geography of Montana, and the geography of her youth. David interprets this as her way of saying "she wanted a few moments of purity." He also ads that he is "on the trail of something that [will] lead him out of childhood." Explain.
6. On page 67, en route to the ranch, David's father makes a tentative suggestion that the family take a trip to Yellowstone, a national park in Montana and Wyoming. Is this destination arbitrary? And what do you make of David's observation that "unfortunately, he did not often keep his promises."
7. On page 69, we get to see David's grandfather for the first time. What sort of figure is he? Does he resemble anyone else in the story, or anyone else you have seen in the literature and film of the West?
8. On the same subject--what do you make of the Hayden's house on page 68? What does it say about its occupants?
9. On page 71, the subject of Frank's and Gloria's childlessness comes up--just when David, who is eavesdropping, expects his father to tell Grandpa Hayden about Frank's improper sexual relationships with Indian girls. What do you make of this juxtaposition? Why do you think David's father is bringing up the subject now?
10. On the same page, David thinks: "Tell Grandfather. Tell him, and he'll take care of everything. He'll grab Uncle Frank by the shoulders and shake him so hard his bones will clatter like castanets. He'll shake him up and shout in Frank's face that he'd better straighten up and fly right or there'll be hell to pay. And because it's grandfather, that will be the end of it." What does this deep faith in his grandfather show about David? And what do you make of the violence of this vision? Why his grandfather, and not his father?
Montana 1948-20pts pgs 57-72
1. As the second chapter begins, we see David Hayden begin to reconstruct his father's investigation. We are reminded that, in large measure, the story of what happened that summer in Montana is hearsay and deduction. How accurate do you suppose are David's conclusions? Do the three deductions presented on the following pages give us confidence in his ability to ferret out the truth? Why or why not?
2. Ollie Young Bear--his role in the story is slight. In fact, he virtually disappears after this one scene. Why is he in the story? What is the significance of the fact that he has a white wife?
3. What's important about the scene in the bowling alley on page 59? What does it show about David, about his father?
4. What's the significance of the weather in the scene on page 63, when David and his mother are temporarily banished from the house?
5. On page 65, David's mother delivers a short soliloquy on the geography of Montana, and the geography of her youth. David interprets this as her way of saying "she wanted a few moments of purity." He also ads that he is "on the trail of something that [will] lead him out of childhood." Explain.
6. On page 67, en route to the ranch, David's father makes a tentative suggestion that the family take a trip to Yellowstone, a national park in Montana and Wyoming. Is this destination arbitrary? And what do you make of David's observation that "unfortunately, he did not often keep his promises."
7. On page 69, we get to see David's grandfather for the first time. What sort of figure is he? Does he resemble anyone else in the story, or anyone else you have seen in the literature and film of the West?
8. On the same subject--what do you make of the Hayden's house on page 68? What does it say about its occupants?
9. On page 71, the subject of Frank's and Gloria's childlessness comes up--just when David, who is eavesdropping, expects his father to tell Grandpa Hayden about Frank's improper sexual relationships with Indian girls. What do you make of this juxtaposition? Why do you think David's father is bringing up the subject now?
10. On the same page, David thinks: "Tell Grandfather. Tell him, and he'll take care of everything. He'll grab Uncle Frank by the shoulders and shake him so hard his bones will clatter like castanets. He'll shake him up and shout in Frank's face that he'd better straighten up and fly right or there'll be hell to pay. And because it's grandfather, that will be the end of it." What does this deep faith in his grandfather show about David? And what do you make of the violence of this vision? Why his grandfather, and not his father?
Journal #4-gender roles
How do gender roles impact your life? In other words, what is expected of you as either a male or female? What would you like to see changed?
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Essay
We are currently working on an essay in class. It is being broken down into several parts. Here is the task.
Montana 1948
Essay 50pts
Wes, the sheriff of Bentrock, Montana is facing a major decision. Should he investigate and possibly arrest his brother Frank, or should he let it go? Weigh the pros and cons of arresting Frank.
Then write a persuasive essay in which you support your decision to either arrest Frank or do nothing.
Montana 1948
Essay 50pts
Wes, the sheriff of Bentrock, Montana is facing a major decision. Should he investigate and possibly arrest his brother Frank, or should he let it go? Weigh the pros and cons of arresting Frank.
Then write a persuasive essay in which you support your decision to either arrest Frank or do nothing.
Monday, September 22, 2008
PhotoStory 3 project
Reservation Life
PhotoStory Project
30pts
Due at the end of the period Thursday 9/25
Now that you have completed your research on Indian reservations, you must put together a visual presentation of your findings. Using PhotoStory 3, you are to add images that correspond to each of the research topics. You must also narrate the slideshow. You must provide a fact or bit of information for each topic and slide. You may also add appropriate background music and effects. When you are done, you are to post your project on your blog.
Requirements:
Images corresponding to research topics. Do a Google image search.
Narrate facts/info for each slide. You choose what is most important.
Add appropriate music/sounds. You can bring in a cd or search wav files for sounds.
Post it to your blog
PhotoStory Project
30pts
Due at the end of the period Thursday 9/25
Now that you have completed your research on Indian reservations, you must put together a visual presentation of your findings. Using PhotoStory 3, you are to add images that correspond to each of the research topics. You must also narrate the slideshow. You must provide a fact or bit of information for each topic and slide. You may also add appropriate background music and effects. When you are done, you are to post your project on your blog.
Requirements:
Images corresponding to research topics. Do a Google image search.
Narrate facts/info for each slide. You choose what is most important.
Add appropriate music/sounds. You can bring in a cd or search wav files for sounds.
Post it to your blog
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Research Project
Today we began a research project. It is due at the end of the period tomorrow.
Reservation Life
20pts
The Indian reservation, although it is not a main setting in the novel, is an important aspect in understanding the time period and the characters’ motives and actions throughout. Your task is to research several topics dealing with reservation life. You are to use the links provided on my blog to access the information. For each topic you must provide a brief write-up/explanation. In other words, what is the basic information you should know about each topic.
Topics-
Systems of government on a reservation
History of reservations
Controversies surrounding reservations
Education on reservations
Gambling
Social Life/Poverty
What adjustments did Native Americans have to make?
Reservation Life
20pts
The Indian reservation, although it is not a main setting in the novel, is an important aspect in understanding the time period and the characters’ motives and actions throughout. Your task is to research several topics dealing with reservation life. You are to use the links provided on my blog to access the information. For each topic you must provide a brief write-up/explanation. In other words, what is the basic information you should know about each topic.
Topics-
Systems of government on a reservation
History of reservations
Controversies surrounding reservations
Education on reservations
Gambling
Social Life/Poverty
What adjustments did Native Americans have to make?
Monday, September 15, 2008
HW due 9/16
Students are to complete the following assignment for HW.
Montana 1948-pgs 31-49 (20pts)
1. On pages 32-33, what is the meaning of David's rhetorical question: "Was the sweat hers or mine?"
2. On page 34, we get a glimpse into David's father's prejudice against Indians. What do you make of David's explanation? Does he defend his father? Try to rationalize his racism?
3. On page 35, David's father calls his brother on the phone. What do you make of his saying, "We've got a sick Indian girl over here, Frank"? What is strange about this?
4. Pages 33 to 38 are devoted to discussion of David's uncle Frank. What sort of man does he appear to be? Does his personal resume make him out to be more than an ordinary man?
5. On the same subject, consider the scene in which David's grandfather calls his "son" to speak to the crowd. How are we to interpret the final moment of this scene, when David's father is seen picking up pieces of trash?
6. What happens in Marie's sick room on pages 40-41? What do you make of the shouted "NO!'s"
7. On page 42, David's father says, "They're not going to make it into the 20th Century until they give up their superstitions and old ways." What sort of thinking does this reveal?
8. On the bottom of 43, David says, "I couldn't figure out why my mother seemed so angry." Why is she angry? What are her allegiances?
9. Why are the bees mentioned on the bottom of page 45? What does this have to do with the shocking information that David has just overheard?
10. How would you summarize the debate that ensues on pages 46 to 47? Particularly, why must David's mother be so explicit in describing the "things" that David's uncle has done?
Montana 1948-pgs 31-49 (20pts)
1. On pages 32-33, what is the meaning of David's rhetorical question: "Was the sweat hers or mine?"
2. On page 34, we get a glimpse into David's father's prejudice against Indians. What do you make of David's explanation? Does he defend his father? Try to rationalize his racism?
3. On page 35, David's father calls his brother on the phone. What do you make of his saying, "We've got a sick Indian girl over here, Frank"? What is strange about this?
4. Pages 33 to 38 are devoted to discussion of David's uncle Frank. What sort of man does he appear to be? Does his personal resume make him out to be more than an ordinary man?
5. On the same subject, consider the scene in which David's grandfather calls his "son" to speak to the crowd. How are we to interpret the final moment of this scene, when David's father is seen picking up pieces of trash?
6. What happens in Marie's sick room on pages 40-41? What do you make of the shouted "NO!'s"
7. On page 42, David's father says, "They're not going to make it into the 20th Century until they give up their superstitions and old ways." What sort of thinking does this reveal?
8. On the bottom of 43, David says, "I couldn't figure out why my mother seemed so angry." Why is she angry? What are her allegiances?
9. Why are the bees mentioned on the bottom of page 45? What does this have to do with the shocking information that David has just overheard?
10. How would you summarize the debate that ensues on pages 46 to 47? Particularly, why must David's mother be so explicit in describing the "things" that David's uncle has done?
Friday, September 12, 2008
Journal #3-Betrayal
When, if ever, is it acceptable to betray someone? Consider your friends and family. Would you ever betray their trust over something? Have you ever been betrayed? Explain your feelings on the subject.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
HW-Due 9/12/08
Students are to complete the following assignment for Friday.
Montana 1948 pgs 19-31 (20pts)
1. On pages 19-21, we learn that the Hayden family is something of a dynasty in law enforcement. Later, on page 21, David describes his father as a man "who tried to turn two ways at once." Describe this conflict, including in your answer some thoughts on David's reference, in the same paragraph, to his "grandfather's domain."
2. A patriarch is a father figure, one who heads a family. A patriarchy is a society that is ruled by men. If the world of Mercer County is a patriarchy, what values are its principle values? What is the LAW?
3. On page 22, David lays out a second conflict. What is it?
4. Why is it significant that David and his family live "in the middle of town"? (page 23) What does this positioning suggest?
5. Comment intelligently on David's other life--his country life--at his grandfather's ranch. Is he, like his father, a man pulled two ways?
6. What do you make of the story of the toothless Indian woman on page 25? What does it show about Bentrock, and the general attitude of whites toward Indians? And how does this foreshadow the accusations later made against David's uncle?
7. On the following pages, 25 to 29, David describes Marie Little Soldier and his feelings for her. Comment on two details: the incident, mentioned on 29, in which he accidentally sees her naked and his remark on page 25 that "her body could be ready, at a moment's notice, for sex or work."
Montana 1948 pgs 19-31 (20pts)
1. On pages 19-21, we learn that the Hayden family is something of a dynasty in law enforcement. Later, on page 21, David describes his father as a man "who tried to turn two ways at once." Describe this conflict, including in your answer some thoughts on David's reference, in the same paragraph, to his "grandfather's domain."
2. A patriarch is a father figure, one who heads a family. A patriarchy is a society that is ruled by men. If the world of Mercer County is a patriarchy, what values are its principle values? What is the LAW?
3. On page 22, David lays out a second conflict. What is it?
4. Why is it significant that David and his family live "in the middle of town"? (page 23) What does this positioning suggest?
5. Comment intelligently on David's other life--his country life--at his grandfather's ranch. Is he, like his father, a man pulled two ways?
6. What do you make of the story of the toothless Indian woman on page 25? What does it show about Bentrock, and the general attitude of whites toward Indians? And how does this foreshadow the accusations later made against David's uncle?
7. On the following pages, 25 to 29, David describes Marie Little Soldier and his feelings for her. Comment on two details: the incident, mentioned on 29, in which he accidentally sees her naked and his remark on page 25 that "her body could be ready, at a moment's notice, for sex or work."
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Journal #2-Expectations
What are other people’s expectations of you? Do you feel as though you can live up to them? Do you want to? Explain. (20pts)
Due 9/11/08
Due 9/11/08
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Welcome
Welcome to English 9-R.
For your first journal assignment, I would like you to blog about the topic of justice. Think about what it means to you as well as others, and if the law truly provides it. Throw in an example or two if you can as well.
Remember, each journal entry is worth 20pts and should be several well-organized paragraphs in length.
For your first journal assignment, I would like you to blog about the topic of justice. Think about what it means to you as well as others, and if the law truly provides it. Throw in an example or two if you can as well.
Remember, each journal entry is worth 20pts and should be several well-organized paragraphs in length.
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