Over the course of the past few weeks, we have covered various topics in preparation for our AP exam. From the textbook, Literature and Composition, I was able to get a better understanding of DIDLS. The application of DIDLS to writing was very beneficial. In class, when we were given an excerpt from a novel or play, breaking down the writing to identify the six parts helped me be more alert for future readings.
In class, we also learned about the different literary movements and the meanings they carry. Each of the movements had a particular focus. For example, Renaissance literature primarily focuses on science, logic and individualism. Each literary movement reflects on the period of time it takes place which defines those literary works. I particularly found our lessons on mythology to be very interesting. Since Classical literature alludes to Greek and Roman Gods, most of the novels are centered around those stories. I was not very familiar with these myths until it was covered in class. I think that since I have a better foundation on this that I can better analyze Classical literature.
After reading The American Dream, I initially thought there was no point to it. It almost seemed like it was pointless to read such a play. However, after we got the handouts that closely analyzed the play, I then understood that this play is an allegory of the American Dream. On the surface it seems like a strange play but after reading the purpose and ideas behind it makes a lot of sense. For example, we were directly told in the play that the Young Man is the American Dream. After reading the analysis, I realized that the Young Man was not the only person that represented the American Dream. Grandma was representation of the old American Dream which was slowly being forgotten; the Young Man was the new American Dream that revolved around society's focus on materialistic goods. Grandma's age was the end of the old American Dream and a new beginning for the new one. This play really opened my eyes and made me understand that I should not just jump to the conclusions. I realized that I need to understand the deeper meaning by reading in between the lines.
Great post! I liked how you didn't just tell what we did in class, and how you used examples. It added more detail. I definitely agree with you that The American Dream was very confusing at first, but after discussions I understood it more. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI agree that DIDLS was very useful. I think it's really going to help us on the exam (and in all future literature classes). It helps when I go to synthesize the piece--all the parts come together when I analyze with DIDLS. I also like how you address the importance of myths in literature. However, I think you missed the point a bit. There were NO novels in classical literature. I think you might have just mixed the eras up, because classical literature is made up of ancient Greek and Roman poets, playwrights, and philosophers. I also agree with what you said about ~*The American Dream*~. I can definitely identify with how confusing it was at first (but funny)!
ReplyDelete