Thursday, January 31, 2008
Huckleberry Finn is here to stay.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Twain's epic tale does not make our society less prone to epic fail
Alex demands feedback (please and thank you)!
Should Huck Finn be studied in schools?
Huckleberrrrrrrrrrrry Finnnn
Should Huck Finn be taught?
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Should Huck Finn Be Taught in Schools?
To Be or Not To Be (Taught)...
SHould Huck Be Taught in Schools
Should Huck Finn be taught?
Should Huck Finn Be Taught in Schools?
Although globally admired, Huck Finn is a very controversial book. The repeated uses of the n-word offend people who still find this term insensitive and demeaning. One mother, Kathy Monteiro, says that each student should have the right to, “feel like a human being in the classroom,” and the reading of the n-word will prevent that from happening. (Ironically, this was not the grievance of previous generations, but instead Huck’s improper behavior and twisted morals.) However, writer David Bradley says that author Mark Twain believed in abolition. Bradley also argues that instead of supporting racism, Twain is commenting on the injustice of the lack of black rights. Huck, the narrator, changes his perspective as the novel progresses. As Huck begins to, “see Jim as a real person,” his point of view towards Jim changes. Jim becomes more complex as the novel develops, showing us his hopes, desires for freedom, and family life. By developing Jim as a character, Twain is mocking the people of the early 1900s’ narrow way of thinking, and challenging them to view African Americans in a different light. Rather than encouraging the degradation of the black race, Twain shows the similarities and “human,” qualities, making Huck Finn acceptable for today’s classrooms.
Culture Shock Response
Huckleberry Finn
Huckleberry Finn
I personally believe that Huck Finn should be taught in highschool. From a personal viewpoint, I can see clearly why the book is so well known, and established as a classic novel. I have continously found this book an enjoyable read, as it provides for adventure, realism, humor, satire, and even the occasional suspense. Mark Twain cleverly incorporates Huck as the main character and narrator, using the unusual but very interesting vernacular to depict the real life situations of the southern towns during the 1800s. Although numerous may find the use of the "n" word highly, with a racist "in your face" approach to the readers, along with the comical representation of the slave Jim, I have found myself in support of the argument stating that this epic novel did not have intentions of harm or lack of humanity. David Bradley, a speaker from the movie even states that Mark Twain was born and raised in a town supporting slavery, and meant for this particular novel to be a "satirical account to display racism and slavery to show its shame." Twain is also stated to have been an anti-racism supportter with anti-slaveholding morals. Miller in the movie states, "the "n" word is the term used at the time, and represents the UGLY reality. Twains purpose was realism, from a white mans point of view."I am not stating that the "n" word and several "racist" themse throughout the book will not offend some people, as everything is bound to be disagreed upon. I think that if a school should be torn over major controversy, than it should be made an optional read book, but in other cases, this great book should not be denied the opportunity to be taught to students because of the "n" word and "scratching" reocurring throughout the novel. As the story unfolds, "through the course of the novel, Huck realizes and understands what Jim actually is, and comes to respect him."
Culture Shock: Born to Trouble Response
Consider the following questions as guides. "Why does this universally admired book offend so many? How do we distinguish between a critique of a social problem and the perpetuation of the problem? Does the required reading of prior generations have relevance for today's students?" (PBS)
Huck Finn
I believe 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' should be taught in high school. One reason it that this is the only book I've actually enjoyed reading. It's one of the only 'classics' with action and adventure in it. Plus, it is written in an unusual way with vernacular, which exposes students to different styles of writing. If the only argument people come up with to not read the book is the use of the n-word and Huck 'scratches himself', then that's ridiculous. Students are exposed to these things on a regular basis. This is no reason to keep students from reading an American classic. David Bradly gives some good points in the film about Huck Finn's advisory and why it is wrong to ban it. He notes that this novel is simply and 'buddy novel' and often considered anti-slavery. If a school is torn apart by the ideas over a simple adventure book, then it should get ditched. But one parent shouldn't imposes his or her beliefs upon a whole school. In the movie parents and teachers seemed to get worked up over this novel because of the n-word. Although, in some cases this word can be used to be offending, students have heard much worse in their every day lives.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Further Instructions
1. Read the NY times articles actively.
2. Write a 1-3 page conversational response to The Declaration of Sentiments. Analyze the piece by comparing the writing/style/purpose with The Declaration of Independence or the two pieces from the NY times. (If you choose this option, you're more likely to concentrate on the 'kairos' or relevance of The Declaration of Sentiments today and compare/contrast the purposes & strategies of each piece.) If you focus on the Declaration, your discussion might include an analysis of the pieces similarities and the purposes/effects of such, considering audience and argument strategies.
Of course, these are just suggestions. Enjoy.
Other reminders:
Friday: contest submission due
Saturday: If I can get it finished, you will have a [fun and esay] online form submission
Monday: REvision and developed PAPA due and WRITERS WEEK SUBMISSION DUE
Tuesday: self-graded AP prompt