Whale Rider (2013)

As we continue our foray into the world of literary analysis we will be momentarily diverting our attention from a written work to a cinematic feature.  Having a visual narrative, as well as one that is full of dialogue, might help to solidify our understanding of what Foster is suggesting in his instructional book, How to Read Literature Like a Professor.  So, we will be watching the film Whale Rider in class for the next week.  During our viewing we will be stopping at specific places and discussing what it is that we see at work in the film that correlates with the instruction of Foster.  There will be additional paper work that must be filled out as well that will, as always, help us to analyze the work at hand.  Below is the film for you to watch if you miss any classes, or if you want to view it a second time.  Unfortunately, the only full film on youtube has Spanish subtitles, but they may be helpful for some.  So, here it is.

On a side note, do you remeber that pesky question that I asked in the beginning of class: "What is the nature of the world and our place in it?"  Well, think about that question while we watch the film.  Additionally, think about this: how do mythology and tradition effect us today and when is it time to separate from either or both of them?  Food for thought.

    Welcome to World Literature.  This course is used to fulfill your English 12 requirement as well as prepare you for your time in the work force and/or at a college or university.  I am very excited to teach this course and help you become more refined writers, readers, and thinkers.  My hope for this course is that I will help you see the multiple contexts that exist in literature as well as how to use them to understand yourself and the world around you.

    There are some over-arching themes and motifs that are continually noticed throughout the span of this course and they are shaped by a few essential questions:
1.    What are your basic perceptions of the world and your place in it, and from where do those perceptions originate?
2.    Who are you and what shapes your identity?
3.    How can one better understand the characters and plots of literature in both individual and global contexts?
4.    What practices of society are questioned in the literature that we read and do you find it necessary to do the same?

      I am very excited to begin this year with you.  If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to reach me at ikain@oswego.org.  I am also available to meet with you or your parent; simply email me and we will set up a time to meet.