Rebecca’s Comments (group member since Aug 23, 2011)

Rebecca’s comments from the 2012 - Ms. Richardson L.A. group.

Odysseus is a classic hero story. The epic tale takes Odysseus through many adventures, each aligning in one way or another with the thread of the hero’s path. Consider the books you have read from The Odyssey. Apply the five steps of the hero’s journey discussed in class to all of the books read. As you apply each step, consider the greater message the story provides the reader. What does this story suggest about what it takes to be a hero? What warnings or cautions are given to a reader who desires to follow the thread of the hero’s path him/herself? In what ways do creatures, misfortune, and mystical events mirror the challenges people face in the real world? What does Odysseus’ reaction suggest about how to overcome challenges or avoid folly? Be sure to use the text as a reference.

Joseph Campbell wrote in The Power of Myth:

We have not to even risk the adventure alone, for the heroes of all time have gone before us. The labyrinth is thoroughly known. We have only to follow the thread of the hero path. And where we had thought to find an abomination, we shall find a god. And where we had thought to slay another, we shall slay ourselves. Where we had thought to travel outward, we shall come to center of our own existence. And where we had thought to be alone, we shall be with all the world.

Explain. What does this quote mean? How does it apply to the study of mythology? Do you agree with the concept? Why or why not? (Your response should be no less than two fully developed paragraphs. Be thoughtful and detail your thinking in your response.)

A Tale of Two Cities was written in 1859, over 150 years ago. There are those critics who would argue that a book written in 1859 is not relevant to a modern audience. Consider the themes, characters and archetypes found in the novel. Would you consider this novel relevant to a modern audience? Focus your argument on a single theme, character or archetype. Make sure to reference the novel to support your thinking. Most importantly, make sure to provide commentary. Don't simply quote a passage or summarize a moment from the story. Instead, discuss how or why that passage is important in supporting your thesis. (I expect at least two paragraphs, 6-8 sentences each.)

The class has had a second look at archetypes and the way in which characters embody them in the novel, The Hunger Games. Consider what we have discussed in class about the difference between an archetype and stereotype. Consider what we have discussed surrounding strong introduction and evidence. Write a response to the following: Select one character from the novel, Hunger Games. Select one archetype discussed in class: hero, villain, general male, general female. Make an argument about how the character defies or embraces the archetype you have selected.

In class we have been discussing villain, hero and general gender archetypes. Consider what you have learned about these archetypes. In the Hunger Games, there are moments when Collins' characters embrace and defy the archetypes. What is your opinion, is Collins more likely to embrace the archetype or defy it? Select one character to make your argument. Make sure to refer back to what you know about the archetype and use specific examples from the text.

A good protagonist evolves in a story. Consider what you know about the protagonist Rainsford prior to falling captive on the island. How did his experience on the island change him? Did it change him for better or for worse? Use explicit moments from the text to support your answer.

In the short story, The Scarlet Ibis, the ibis is a symbol for Doodle. Infer how the ibis acts as a symbol. In your response remember to bring in explicit moments from the text to support your thinking. Also, remember to bring in your own logic and reasoning. I can't wait to read your responses. (Due date: Tuesday, Nov. 1st)