Something That Happened

When Steinbeck first finished the manuscript of this novel, he entitled it Something That Happened. Then he remembered the Burns' poem he had always loved: "To a Mouse," and he changed the title to Of Mice and Men. Which title do you think is best? Why? What part of the novel conveys this title choice best? (This post closes at mignight Sunday, May 3, 2009.)

LAND OF MISFIT TOYS

Consider the scene in Crooks' room. How and what does the conversation of the "misfits" in the chapter reveal about society? In what ways does each character dominate/control? (This post closes on Sunday, April 26 at midnight.)

Friendship Comes in Many Forms

We have discussed the friendship shared by George and Lennie. Today, we read about a different type of friendship--Candy and his dog. In what ways is the friendship parallel to the one shared by George and Lennie? ( This blog closes at midnight on Wednesday, April 22nd)

Final Thoughts on The Crucible

Now that we have finished reading, enacting, and discussing Miller's play, what do you feel is the most important message/theme that Miller conveys through this drama? Why? (The post closes on Tuesday, March 24th at midnight.)

JUSTICE REVEALED

In Act III, Governor Danforth says to the people in the court "We burn a hot fire here; it melts down all concealment." Are the people of Salem truly looking for the truth? Do people in general look for the truth or do they just latch on to what they think is the truth and/or what they want to be the truth? What is Miller saying about people, justice, and progress? (This post closes on Wednesday, March 11, 2009, at midnight.)

The Crucible

Based upon your reading of Act One, discuss how the Puritans’ attitudes and beliefs may have caused or increased the outbreak of the witchcraft hysteria. Do people today still react to hysteria? What is one thing of recent times were hysteria has caused people to react in rash or illogical ways? (This post closes at midnight on March 5, 2009)

The American Legacy

Which of the aspects of the American Dream (abundant land, veritable wealth, religious fortitude, open hospitality, laborious work ethic, etc. ), established by the early American writers and explorers, do you feel was best conveyed in the writings of Bradford, Smith, Columbus, or Bradstreet? Explain. (This post closes at midnight on March 3rd.)