Tuesday, May 21

Freshmen: Today we had some more presentations; your homework is to read for 20 minutes and your letter to the editor is due on Wednesday.

Sophomores: Today we finished our overview on the monomyth and began talking about Hamlet's archetype. Speaking of the monomyth and my main man Joseph Campbell, we also started an essay today. Here is the assignment:

Write an essay that analyzes the presence of Joseph Campbell's monomyth in Shakespeare's Hamlet (note: every element of the monomyth is present there, so don't try the old excuse of "This part wasn't in the play..."). Describe how each element of the monomyth is evident in the play, using description of plot and character to make your argument, and particularly by citing lines from the text that are emblematic of each stage. Remember that these elements are not necessarily sequential, meaning that they do not have to necessarily appear in the order that they are listed on your graphic organizer (speaking of which, here's the website we used in class: http://orias.berkeley.edu/hero/). In addition to elegant writing, your essay should have a clear thesis, great title, list the lead and conclusion technique you are using in your header, be free of most conventions errors, and use paragraphing well. Submit it to turnitin.com by 8 AM on Tuesday, May 28.

Due Thursday is Act V; we will start Tuesdays With Morrie after the break.

CNF: Today we started Three Cups of Tea and looked at the controversy and tragedy surrounding this book, as well as the nature and importance of truth.