English 2F

Seminar #11
Lowry and Reader Response

Directions:

Think about these questions, in light of the material you read in Module 8 about reader response.

1. 1. Conformity vs. Self-Expression: Have you ever had a time when your creativity or freedom of expression was limited? What similarities do you see between your own situation and the world in which Jonas lives?  What was your reaction to the way the characters in this book were made to conform?

   2. Pro-life vs. Pro-Choice:  Do you consider yourself pro-life or pro-choice, or somewhere in between?  How do you feel about euthanasia? Did your views on abortion and euthanasia influence your reaction to this book? Why or why not?

   3. Manipulative Language: Find some examples of how language is used in the book to manipulate people's feelings or perceptions of reality. Draw some parallels between the use of language in this book, and in our own world. How do our leaders use language as a way to shape our ideas of reality?  How do you react when you come across examples of linguistic manipulation in your own life?

   4. Death: What is your attitude about death? Do you see it as a release, the way some characters do in the book? Or do you have other ideas about death? How do you feel children should be introduced to the idea of death? Is there anything healthy or beneficial about the way Jonas's society teaches its people about death?

   5.  Free Choice. Choose another theme or question raised in the book, and discuss your reaction to Lowry's portrayal of that theme or question. What parallels do you see between the book and your own world? Do you agree with her presentations, or are there times when you found yourself challenging her views?

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 Monday, May 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, May 11.