American Literature

Opening Activity Journal 8: Write one adjective that tells me how this video makes you feel. Find someone in the room that has the same or a similar adjective as you. Discuss why you chose that adjective. Share With Class

Learning Targets RL11-12.1 Cite evidence RL11-12.3 Analyze the impact of the author’s choices regarding how to develop and relate elements of a story or drama (e.g., where a story is set, how the action is ordered, how the characters are introduced and developed). RL11-12.7 Analyze multiple interpretations of a work SL11-12.2 Integrate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats

Unit 3 American Romanticism What is the American Dream? How do authors create the American identity through literature?

Literary Terms Symbolism- something in a text that stands for some larger meaning example: In The Devil And Tom Walker, the trees being named for wealthy men of the village being cut down and used for burning as firewood is a symbol for souls burning in hell. Parable- A story whose sole purpose is to teach a lesson. example: the idea of a minister wearing a black veil for his entire life is ludicrous; however, in Nathaniel Hawthorne the purpose of the text is to comment on secret sin, judgment & hypocricy

Literary Terms Allusion-a reference in one text to a person or event that happened in another text. Gothic-a late 19th century style of literature that is characterized by violence, horror, mystery and the grotesque. Mood-the overall feeling a text gives the reader

Edgar Allan Poe Critics: 12 questions Theater Groups: Plot Diagram Biography pg 288 The Black Cat Critics: 12 questions Theater Groups: Plot Diagram

Model Critique A marriage proposal is a beautiful moment. Many women envision roses, romance and a man kneeling before them. The title of Jagged Edge’s 1994 hit, ‘Let’s Get Married’ may lure the unsuspecting male into thinking that it is a good choice for background music to set the mood for a proposal. The lyrics however will prove him wrong, get him turned down and may even get him slapped. The song isn’t the worst love song out there. The quartet sings well and the music is simple. The video has a great storyline and shows that love can overcome many obstacles. The problem is with the hook. ‘Meet me at the altar in your white dress.’ Not the best way to ask someone to marry you but when you then give the reason, ‘We ain’t gettin’ no younger girl; we might as well do it.’ It sounds as if you are saying ‘Oh well, might as well, since we’re here.’ That’s not romantic nor is it asking for a serious commitment. The entire hook is a command, not a proposal and it sounds indifferent and blasé. I do not recommend this song for anyone trying to get a little romantic as it is more laughable than it is passionate. This single doesn’t prove that Jagged Edge is edgy when it comes to love. They’re just rough around the edges.

Practice Critique In your groups, write a critique on the video . . .I am only going to play it once and there are no onscreen lyrics, so it is important for you to pay attention! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWuddKPLXSw

After The Performance . . . The Raven http://teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=251203

Closing What major themes are prevalent in Poe’s narratives? What happens to the women in Poe’s narratives? Evaluate whether this is a reflection of societal views of 19th century women or Poe’s own viewpoints based on his personal tragedy? What makes a good critic/critique? What makes a good stage representation of a narrative? What do Poe’s narratives reveal about insanity and humanity? Discuss modern implications. What do Poe’s narratives reveal about guilt and its effect on the human psyche?