Homework: King Lear & Machiavellianism

Read up on Machiavellianism and understand its relation to characters in King Lear.

Homework - Edmund Soliloquy

Read Edmund's soliloquy found in Act 1 Scene 2. Identify elements of characterization. Why does he decide to do what he later does? Is he trying to justify his actions? How aware is he in his actions and the consequences that come from them?

A Scientific Approach to Finding Tone

As per my lecture, there is a way to use the scientific approach that may help better understand how to find tone in a work of literature.

Hypothesis = The tone you believe the work to possess. 

In order to verify your hypothesis you will need to collect data. The data we have to work with is the text that the author uses. The varying use of words and the connotation(s) associated with those words in the context should help in the development of the tone.

Data Collection = Diction

After looking at the diction, you also have to verify that the 'data' you have found is accurate. Therefore, verifying the 'data' (tone) by looking at the imagery, details and syntax that the author uses/conveys contributes to back up your hypothesis (tone.)

Analyze = Verify the use of diction and its development of tone by how the author uses imagery, details & syntax

After following through with the collecting and analyzing of the materials, your results should align with your hypothesis.

Shakespearean Tragedy

Here are some elements I would like you to research and become familiar with as we prepare to embark on a Shakespearean adventure! I'll pick up your findings on Monday.

• Define a Shakespearean Tragedy.
• Themes commonly found
• 3 stages of tragic pattern
• Define Tragic Hero
• How does the contrasts (ideas, foils) found in a tragedy help enhance the drama?
• How is fate used in a tragedy?
• The supernatural?
• What is pathetic fallacy?
• What is catharsis and it's relation to drama?
• What is a soliloquy and what is its purpose?
• How is an aside and what is its purpose?
• What is dramatic irony?
• What is hamartia?
• What is In Medias Res?
• What are puns?
• What external/internal conflicts are typically found in tragedies?