Performance

Performance affects the written text. The way characters chose to say certain lines, how they chose to act, and their body language affects what words mean. For example, saying “I love you” can mean two different things, whether said sarcastically or passionately.

Answer one or both: a) Find a line or two in the play that you think can have two meanings, depending on how the character chooses to act out the lines. b) Find an example from the film that made you rethink about the meaning of a line or two because of how it was acted out on the screen.

Thematic Development

As we continue reading the play, it is important to discover and analyze themes that appear throughout. Use this blog to explore a theme you have discovered so far.

Punctuation

As we discussed in class, punctuation is not simply a set of rules without purpose --- and its purposes go beyond annoying us. Good use of punctuation makes you a stronger writer, since you can express yourself with clarity, power, and creativity.

Give an example or two of how punctuation can change a sentence: a made-up one, a text message, or one you find. [Here’s another example: “Let’s eat, Grandpa!” or “Let’s eat Grandpa!”]

Shakespeare

Use this post to share a line or two from Othello that you find particularly profound, cool, funny, or interesting. Explain.

Characterizing

As we begin the play, it is important to characterize the main characters. (“Characterize” definition: to describe the main characteristics of a person; although this may include important physical traits, it also includes important interior traits or personalities.) Take a moment to characterize one or more of the following: Othello, Iago, or Desdemona.

Shakespeare’s Language

Although it may feel as if certain characters in the play like to ramble, there are many lines in Othello that are poignant, powerful, or profound. Explore a line or a few lines that you find particularly powerful, funny, or profound. Explain yourself.

Dramatic Irony

Dramatic Irony is the effect of having the audience (or reader) know something people on stage (or in the story) do not know. Explore either a) the effect dramatic irony has on story-telling, or b) an example of this in a movie, play, or story.

Relationships and Trust

In strong relationships, trust is an important element. You need to be able to trust your friend, significant other, husband, or wife. What happens when you have doubts about someone’s faithfulness (let’s think of a significant other) but can’t prove it? Do you give the benefit of the doubt? Or are you automatically suspicious? I want to hear your individual opinions on the matter.

Shakespeare

Use this post to blog about an experience you had reading or learning about Shakespeare. Was it positive or negative? What are your general feelings about Shakespeare? [Note: If it negative, your answer still needs to be academic and engaging.]

The Purpose of Writing

In your own words, define the purpose of writing. [Think of writing as intended, at least in some part, to be read by an audience.] Defend your definition. Also, feel free to respond to other students’ definitions.

Cultural Taboo

A “cultural taboo” is something a specific culture views as wicked, disgusting, or simply wrong. Pick a “cultural taboo” to explore. Why do you think it is a “taboo?” Do not pick the same taboo as someone else, unless you’re going to disagree with your fellow student.

Oedipus' Fate

Could Oedipus have avoided his “fate?” Explain your answer. If you are going to agree with someone, you need to add something and not simply repeat his or her words.

Why?

Using an example from class (thanks, Sam), consider this: A bus with 20 people crashes. Only 1 person survives. Why? Feel free to disagree with one another. If you are going to agree with someone, you need to add something and not simply repeat his or her words.

Independent Work Due Mon, Nov 9

In place of blogging this week, please work on your independent, quarterly work. It is due November 9, the Monday after the 4-day weekend.

"In Medias Res"

This Greek term means “starting in the middle.” A lot of Greek plays and epic poems start right in the middle of a story. The beginning of the story is explained as the story progresses. Movies and books are still written in this fashion. a) Explore an example of this, and/or b) explore what effect this has on story-telling.

Connotations

Explore two synonyms that have extremely similar denotations but different connotations. When is it better to use one than the other, and vice versa?

Heroes

If I called someone a “hero” in a story or movie, what sort of qualities would you expect him/her to have? What are examples of “heroes” in modern movies/books?

Short, Short Stories

Use this space to post your two short, short stories.

Dynamic Characters

Just as in stories, characters in real life change, grow, and learn new things. Explain and explore a moment in your life in which you were dynamic. What did you learn about yourself or the world that caused you to change?

Fate

In the modern world, we tend not to think about fate or the gods having a hand in our destinies. It is a very American idea to think we have full control over our lives and futures. However, even though we may not believe that there are gods on Mount Olympus controlling us, there are many things about our lives that are outside of our control. Explore one of these things. What about your life, present condition, or future is outside of your control?