Socratic Seminar The Socratic seminar is a formal discussion, based on a text, in which the leader asks open-ended questions. Within the context of the discussion, students listen closely to the comments of others, thinking critically for themselves, and articulate their own thoughts and their responses to the thoughts of others.

Socratic Seminar Two circles (inner and outer) are formed. Inner circle – “A Case for the Defense” Outer circle – “The Ironic Double” Each student will participate in an open discussion based on their reading of “The Cask of Amontillado” and the literary criticism essay they read. All students must add something to the conversation. If you agree, say why and offer additional textual evidence from either text If you respectfully disagree, say why and offer textual evidence to support your claim Circles will swap once everyone has had a chance to speak. Mark your text for evidence that has already been shared with the group. You will receive a grade based on the depth of your answer.

“A Case for the Defense” by Patrick white What does White identify as Montresor’s motivations for his actions? Do they have validity? Why or why not? Is the motto’s origin necessary for the reader’s interpretation of “The Cask of Amontillado”? Is Montresor acting of his own accord of that of his family’s? In the pursuit of patriotism, what social graces are implicated? How does White relate this to Montresor’s actions? “The story is a chilling example of man’s capacity for rationalization” (White 554). Is man capable of the same actions as Montresor? Why or why not?

“The Ironic Double in POE’S ‘CASK OF AMONTILLADO’” BY WALTER STEPP Is Fortunato an unworthy heir? Why or why not? What is Stepp’s interpretation of the Montresor coat of arms? How does this compare/contrast to your interpretation? How are both Fortunato and Montresor quacks, according to Stepp? Is Montresor a failure to his motto? Why or why not? How is the reader an “ironic double”? (Stepp 453).

Theme An IDEA about Life!

Subject The topic of a work of literature The subject can usually be stated in a single word or phrase Love War Childhood Growing up Aging

Generalizations A broad statement that applies to many individuals, experiences, situations, or observations. Kind of conclusion that is drawn after considering as many facts as possible. Themes are expressed as generalizations.

Theme The general idea or insight about human life that work of literature reveals. Can be stated in one or more sentences. The theme on a subject of love might be: True love survives all obstacles. The theme on a subject of war might be: War destroys the good along with the bad.

Universal Themes Themes that can be found in literature from different times, countries, and cultures. Cross genres as well as national boundaries, languages, customs, and historic periods. An example of a universal theme is: A hero often must sacrifice something precious in order to reach a goal.

Genres The different forms of literature. Short stories Novels Plays Poems

Small Group Discussion Get into groups of 3-4 and come up with a theme from each of the short stories we’ve read so far. “The Gift of the Magi” “The Scarlet Ibis” “The Necklace” “The Most Dangerous Game” “The Cask of Amontillado”