Houston ENGL2328 All Discussions Latest 2018 September

ENGL2328 American Literature II

Discussion-Incarnations of Burned Children

After reading “Incarnations of Burned Children,” how do you think this story is different from ‘traditional’ stories you have read? Think about examples you can include from the reading or from other stories.

Respond to at least two of your classmates for full participation.

 

ENGL2328 American Literature II

Discussion-Owl Creek

(1) What aspects of “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” make it real?

(2) Did you expect the ending? If so, what gave it away for you? If not, why were you “fooled?” Why do you think the author chose this ending?

Be sure to respond to two of your classmates for participation points.

 

ENGL2328 American Literature II

Discussion-Chopin, Chesnutt, and Far

Kate Chopin’s story is about how one is “enslaved” to their beliefs, possibly due to societal expectations and constraints. Irony also plays a large part in this story as well.

Charles Chesnutt writes about the implications of “colorism.” Those who were born with skin that either matched or was lighter than a paper bag could pass for white. However, the dilemma of fitting in with mainstream culture often meant a change or loss of identity.

Sui Sin Far’s work gives voice to the challenges of adjusting to an “Americanized” way of life. Chinese Americans are strongly connected to their culture of past generations. But, the young seem to sway towards American ideals, which can cause confusion for the older generation who hold strong to their beliefs.

Be sure to respond to at least two of your classmates for participation points.

How do these stories represent the fluidity or changeable nature of identity? Think about the ways identity is defined, whether personally, socially, or culturally. What is the effect of “buying into” or believing that those who are different (define this how you want, within reason) should conform to specific societal mores?

 

ENGL2328 American Literature II

Discussion-How Do You Read Poems?”

After reading the poems, discuss the method(s) you utilized to read the poems. Include the title of a poem or two that seemed daunting or confusing and/or ones that resonated with you.

 

 

ENGL2328 American Literature II

Discussion-Fences

In Act 1, Scene 3, a pivotal moment plays out between Troy and Cory. Troy does not want Cory to play football, nor does he want his son to go to college and play football for a white coach. Cory, in his frustration asks his father, “How come you ain’t never liked me?” (Wilson 938). The ensuing dialogue continues where we get a strong sense of Troy’s relationship with his son.

In Act 2, Scene 1, Rose and Troy are fighting to be understood. Rose feels undervalued by Troy, who in his need to have a kind of freedom, forgets that his wife stands on the same path as him. Rose, also in frustration and laced with anger, tells Troy, “I am standing with you! I have been right here with you, Troy. I got a life too” (Wilson 953). She continues to vent her discontent, and, here, we see the underpinnings of their marriage

p>

How do these two scenes (or others you found) help you to understand the kind of man Troy is? What are the expectations of his son and wife? Can and does he fulfill those expectations?  Keep in mind the majority of this play is set in 1957.

Though you can find answers in sites such as SparkNotes or other online sources, I am interested in your thoughts.

Search entries or author