1. RECAP  TOPIC?  THEME?  What does the author do to reveal the theme?  THESIS?

2. The Great Gatsby  Topic: The American Dream  Theme: The disintegration of the American Dream, and the decaying social morals of Americans during the economic boom of the 20’s.  Characters: Jay Gatsby, Daisy and Tom.  Setting: Valley of Ashes.  Symbol: The Green Light, Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, Weather (Spring->Fall)

3. Now put it to the test!  As a group, read “The Open Boat” by Stephen Crane. Pg. 215.  As you read, look for the topics of the story, and how/what does Crane use (symbol, motif, character, etc.) to expresses his views about them.  What are the themes of this story?  Write a group thesis as if you were to write an essay about how the author conveys the theme of the story.