agenda | 26 june 2009

Agenda

• Attendance Quiz
• Group Presentation on "A Spinster's Tale"
• Discussion of "Desiree's Baby"
  

Discussion Questions for "A Spinster's Tale"

• The story is a flashback to the past for the narrator. Explain why the author may have chosen to present the story in this manner. What is the significance of the title?
• What conflicts appear in the story? Which conflict do you think drives the story? What other conflicts do you see?
• What impact do you think this setting has on the plot of the story? It is set in the south in the early 1900s. Considering the time period, what themes emerge from the story? Would the story be different if it was in a different setting?
• Which character is most sympathetic to you? Explain why.
• Do you think Elizabeth has changed from the beginning to the end? If so, what causes her to develop and mature?
• How do you think her mother's death affect Elizabeth? What else does Elizabeth suffer from and how does it affect her youth and even her future adult life?
• There is a sense that sexual abuse may be to blame for Elizabeth’s slow upbringing. Did you sense this? Could it be true?
• Considering the character development of Elizabeth, do you think there is any significance to the existence of Mr. Speed’s character? What do you notice about his characteristics? What do you think if at all, was Taylor’s purpose in naming his character Mr. Speed? What overall role does he play in the story?
• Do you see a connection between the weather and Mr. Speed in the story? What other symbolism do you see in the story?
• Towards the end of the story, Elizabeth’s fear of Mr. Speed coming to her house becomes a reality. Thinking back in the story, does Taylor use any foreshadowing regarding Mr. Speed’s arrival?
• What do you think is the main theme of this story?

Homework due 6/29

• Read "A Worn Path" and "The Jilting of Granny Weatherall"
• Blog in response to one of the discussion questions