November 23

JOURNAL TOPIC:
On Thursday millions of Americans will eat until they are sick. Why?

AGENDA:
1. Journal
2. Caesar final essay assignment



CAESAR FINAL ESSAY ASSIGNMENT

Et tu, Brute?

This quote is one of the best known in the English language. In four syllables Shakespeare creates a powerful moment, reveals aspects of Caesar's character and his relationship with Brutus, and shines a light on thematic elements of the play such as loyalty and ambition.

In a well-organized essay of 3-5 typed and double-spaced pages, choose one of the following questions/themes and answer the question using no fewer than five (5) textual quotes to support your points.

NOTE #1: SEVERAL CHARACTERS IN THE PLAY FELT STRONGLY THAT IT WAS MORE IMPORTANT TO DIE THE RIGHT WAY THAN LIVE THE WRONG WAY. PLEASE HONOR THEIR MEMORIES AND REMEMBER THIS IS AN INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT. BE CONFIDENT IN YOUR UNDERSTANDING, AND RELY ON YOUR NOTES AND TEXTBOOK AS NEEDED. DO NOT CONSULT OTHER SOURCES OR PEOPLE AS YOU WRITE.

NOTE #2: DUST OFF YOUR NOTES ON ARISTOTLE'S SIX ELEMENTS OF TRAGEDY.

OPTION 1
The competing values of loyalty and ambition form a major theme of the play. Given what you know about individual characters and the throng's response to Brutus and Antony at Caesar's funeral, describe this theme and Shakespeare's attitude toward it (i.e., tone). Be sure to analyze these in terms of Aristotle's six elements.

OPTION 2
What is the role of belief systems and superstition in the play? How were characters and events influenced by elements such as gods, dreams, and portentous signs? Be sure to analyze these in terms of Aristotle six elements.

OPTION 3
Who is the protagonist of this play? Be sure to analyze in terms of Aristotle's six elements.

HW: Complete essay and turn in (typed, 12-point, 1" margins, double-spaced, NO EXCEPTIONS) at the beginning of class on Monday, November 29.


Happy Thanksgiving!