"Fine old Christmas, with the snowy hair and ruddy face, had done his duty that year in the noblest fashion, and had set off his rich gifts of warmth and color with all the heightening contrast of frost and snow." –George Eliot, The Mill on the Floss
It is important to keep our minds bright during this time of relaxation and resuscitation. In order to do this, while not over-taxing your brains and ambition, we will have a quick study of two short stories. Please (1) read and annotate "A Christmas Memory" by Truman Capote and "A Child's Christmas in Wales" by Dylan Thomas, (2) complete their attached study guides, and (3) be prepared for an in-depth and GRADED discussion upon our return:
Discussion Preparation
1. Be informed about the use of language in Truman Capote's short story and Dylan Thomas's short story. Keep a running record (T-Chart) of the language used in each story that reflects:
-memory
-tone
-setting
-theme or author's purpose
2. Be able to compare and contrast the stylistic differences between both authors (Venn Diagram).
3. Narratives use almost all of the following elements (whether they are fictional or not). Be prepared to identify and discuss these elements as they relate to each story (annotation):
-Narration of plot points
-Plot ponts have a purpose related to the theme
-Evaluates the significance of the incident
-Provides a specific setting for scenes and incidents
-Provides supporting specific detail
-paces the action to accomodate time or mood changes
-Creates a unifying theme or tone
-Uses literary devices to enhance style or tone
Short Stories with Study Guides (attached to paper copies of short stories)
| capote-achristmasmemorystoryandstudyguide.pdf |
| thomas-achildschristmasinwalesstoryandstudyguide.pdf |
You may listen to the stories here while you read along, annotate, and complete the study guides:
Clicking the image above will take you to an NPR recording of Truman Capote reading "A Christmas Memory" from Minnesota Public Radio. |
The image above is a collection of thematic images with a recording of Dylan Thomas reading "A Child's Christmas in Wales" from Youtube. |