Essay: Theme

Prompt: Select any of the stories we’ve recently read and a personal experience, and discuss how the conflict develops the theme

•Themes:

•We sometimes create more disaster when we try to change our fate.

•Avoiding fate often leads to misery.

•Confronting our fate is sometimes the bravest thing we can do.

Thesis statement

1. Select the story you wish to discuss, and explain the conflict ["Somebody" wanted.... But.... So....]

2. Choose and describe a related personal experience and the theme.

3. Write TWO thesis statements for your essay.

Stories:
Orpheus
The Death of Baldur
Hades Takes a Wife
Masque of the Red Death
And of Clay Are We Created

Fact to Fiction

Watch or read the news tonight. Choose a story from the broadcast or paper that you would write a story or poem about. Describe it, and explain whose perspective/POV you would focus on and why.

Please note: The final day to submit your mask project is Tuesday, May 31!

"Don't leave me..."

Finish reading "And of Clay Are We Created." (through p. 265)

Which passage from your reading was most tragic? Write it, and explain what makes it so powerful.

Why do you think Allende chose to tell the story ("And of Clay Are We Created") from the POV of someone other than Azucena?
Use: It seems that...
I believe...
For instance...
Also...
As you can see...

Project Poe due TOMORROW!

"I am a Story Hunter"

Read "Meet the Writer: Isabel Allende" on p. 266

List five facts about her life and career.

Why do you think she was inspired to write about the Colombian Mudslide, based on her biography? Give an example.


Remember: Project Poe due WEDNESDAY MAY 25!!!

Project Poe

Project: Allegory

Choose any two of the seven topics and create a mask for each one. Your mask should represent the allegorical meaning of the topic within “Masque of the Red Death.” Refer to the story for ideas to represent in your mask.

Ebony Clock

Prince Prospero

Blood

Colors (any 2)

7 Rooms

Masquerade (masked ball)

Masked Guest

Each mask should be original, creative, colorful, and reflect your topic’s allegorical meaning. Write your name and period on the back of your masks.

Suggested materials: glitter, paint, feathers, pompoms, shaped confetti, jewels, etc.

Masks are worth 16 pts each. You will be graded on timeliness, following directions, effort, and creativity.

BONUS: Do a third mask for up to 16 pts. extra credit!

Masks are due by Wednesday, May 25, 2011!