English 2F
Discussion #5
Charlotte's Web - Children's Lit?
Directions:
Think about these questions, in light of the discussion we had last week about what defines children's lit as a genre:
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What about Charlotte's Web identifies it as appropriate to the genre of "children's lit"?
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Are there any themes, scenes or ideas in the book that would make you question giving it (or reading it) to a young child? Do you think White handles those moments appropriately? Why or why not?
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Do you think the audience that White envisioned is substantially different from the audience that is reading the book today? Think of similarities and differences between the generation that read the book when it was first published, and the generations since, leading up to our current crop of children who are reading the book for the first time.
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What kind of preparation might a child need (either via life experience or discussion with adults) to be able to deal with some of these more "adult" themes and ideas?
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Are there limits to what kinds of situations and ideas children should be reading about? Are there some themes that should belong exclusively to the realm of "adult" lit? Where would you draw the line, and why?
Write a brief (1-2 paragraph) response to one or more of those questions.
Post your paragraph using the "New Topic" button. Postings will be due by Thursday, Oct.5 at midnight.
Respond to at least two of your classmates' paragraphs. When you respond, do add something to the discussion. Don't just say "I agree" or "disagree". Give specific reasons why you feel the way you do, examples from your own childhood or observations, and other evidence. Responses are due by midnight Sunday, Oct. 8.
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