Atticus: Father of the Year?

Many readers feel that Atticus Finch represents the epitome of the perfect father. Setting aside the argument that "perfection" is an impossible standard, there may be equally compelling evidence that Atticus has many paternal shortcomings. Weigh in on this argument, citing evidence from the text to support your claims....and Happy New Year!

Racism in Maycomb

Does Atticus, or anyone else for that matter, have a chance at changing Maycomb's ways? Harper Lee implies that Maycomb is both obdurate and open to change; which side do you feel is more compelling? Where is your proof? Which character do you feel is the most racist? Remember to include all of the different types of racism that exist in the novel (e.g., religion, color, sex, class, etc.). As always, I look forward to reading your responses.

To Kill a Mockingbird Debate #3: The "Nicest" Kid

Knowing how much you all love the questions with no correct answer, I think I have a good one for you...Which of the children is the nicest; Scout, Dill, or Jem? You will need to explain what you mean by "nice" and support your argument with details from the text. As always, "listen" and respond to each other and, above all, be respectful. Good luck; I cannot wait to read your responses and discuss them in class next week. PS: I'm open to your suggestions for TKM Debate Blogs! What do you think?

TKM: Debate #2 12/6 - Dill's influence

In class on Thursday, Craig raised the point that if not for Dill, the children would not be as tolerant and open-minded as they are. Who do you feel had the most profound influence on the children's understanding of equality and human kindness? Gee, so many characters to choose from! TRY to pick just one and, as always, back it up with proof from the text!

Don't forget to identify who you are to receive participation points!

Class of 2011- Memorable Class Moments

Class of 2011 - Memorable Moments!

It happens to everyone: words get jumbled between the brain and mouth, we enter into a conversation a moment too late... or we are simply confused. Ironically, these are the moments that help us remember the important information from class; laughter is a powerful learning tool. This is an opportunity to remember the special moments, lessons, activities, characters, and, of course, the miscommunications from our class. Help me to keep track of them and I will compile these into a booklet at the end of the year. Please remember that class rules apply: I will not tolerate any malicious attacks on any student or teacher. This is not meant to poke fun at anyone; it is meant in a spirit of reliving the occasional happy moment in our very special circle of hell :-)

TKM: Debate #1 12/5 - Jem's broken arm

"When he was nearly thirteen, my brother Jem got his arm badly broken at the elbow [...] When enough years had gone by to enable us to look back on them, we sometimes discussed the events leading to his accident. I maintain that the Ewells started it all, but Jem, who was four years my senior, said it started long before that. He said it began the summer Dill came to us, when Dill first gave us the idea of making Boo Radley come out." (Lee 3)

Who is correct? Would the course of events have remained the same if Dill had not entered the picture? What do you think? Continue the debate from class. Special recognition to the articulate arguments raised by Kevin F., Zoe, Sam, and Craig. Respond to each other but, as always, stay respectful!

Don't forget to leave your name so you can receive credit for participation!

To Kill a Mockingbird - Moving Scene Book 1

When asked, most people will identify To Kill a Mockingbird as a favorite novel. The complexity of its characters, the power of its language, and the emotion evoked from its conflicts create a story that is difficult to forget. Throughout the next few weeks, we will be focusing on those aspects of Lee's text which make it so memorable. In this blog, I'd like to hear from you: What, in your opinion, is the most powerful or significant scene in Book 1? Don't forget to support your arguments with evidence from the text...and respond to each other.

Oedipus Rex: Questions to Consider

Thank you for helping me launch into the technological age!

A commendable job to all of you for completing Oedipus Rex so quickly.

Now that you have finished the text, you may want to consider the following questions. Feel free to comment or add your own points to ponder:

1. Compare and contrast Creon & Oedipus. What are their essential character traits? What textual evidence do you have to support this?

2. Does Sophocles believe in prophecy and fate?

3. What is Oedipus's fundamental hamartia?

4. What did you think of his final moments with his daughters / sisters?