AP English Literature and Composition 407-408
Mrs. Griswell
Summer Reading Assignment
Selections:
BEOWULF preferably the Burton Raffel translation (Seamus Haney will also do.)
THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH, William Shakespeare
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, Jane Austen
THE KITE RUNNER, Khaled Housseini
Assignment:
You are to read the listed texts and to be prepared for discussion and assessment when you return to school. An important aspect of our discussions will focus on the influence of the society in which the author in writing on the works that he/she writes. Culture, politics, and values all play a part in his/her attitude toward the subject. Even though these selections are works of fiction, the authors cannot ignore their experiences as they put pen to paper. Therefore, as you read, you are to do the following activities.
BEOWULF and THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH
Both of these works are set in the Anglo-Saxon time period (447-1066 A.D.). While BEOWULF dates from around 700 A.D., the publication date for MACBETH is 1605 during the Renaissance Period of British literature. Both works relate the story of an Anglo-Saxon warrior, yet differences arise because the authors are from different eras. As you read, make notes on the qualities of the hero exemplified in the protagonist. Also record characteristics that present aspects of culture, politics, and values. Pay attention to the differences between the two works. The first assessment on August 10th will be based on these notes.
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE and THE KITE RUNNER
Both of these novels deal with societal prejudice. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE is set in early 19th century Britain, and the setting of THE KITE RUNNER, for the most part, is late 20th and early 21st century Afghanistan. Even though the cultures are noticeably different, the actions and attitudes of the characters in both stories are driven by prejudice. For each novel, find five passages that relate to this topic, and complete the attached sheets. These handouts are due on August 9th. Again these passages will guide discussion and assessment.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO ASK.
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