Defining Poetry

Find and discuss a definition of poetry that we haven’t discussed in class. Feel free to agree or disagree with the definition. Avoid dictionary definitions. Look for definitions by poets or writers.

The Difference of Poetry

In what ways is poetry different than other forms of written art? Explore.

A Poem

What is a poem you like? Who wrote it? What about it do you like?

Have a Great Break!

As promised, there is no mandatory work over the break. Take a moment to make sure you're caught up with your blogs.

Specific Themes

What is a specific theme you find in the play? (Remember, a specific theme is a comment about a general theme, i.e. general theme = money; specific themes = money changes the dynamics in family relationships.)

The End

How did you find the end of the play? Was it a fit ending? Why or why not?

Shakespeare's Language

Share a line or two of Shakespeare’s that you find particularly interesting, neat, complex, funny, or profound. (Please actually type the line(s) in your post.)

Important Reminder!

Your response cannot be the exact some as someone else. There has been quite a bit of that lately. You will not receive full credit for a post that is repetitive.

Diction and Character’s Values

Understanding diction is essential to being a solid reader of literature. Diction teaches us many things. One of these is “character values.” A person’s choice of words directly or indirectly tells us what he or she considers important.

Find an example of diction (a word, phrase, or set of words) that reveals a character’s values. Explain your choice.

Language

Share a line or two of Shakespeare's that you find particularly powerful, profound, funny, or just interesting.

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.