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FRANKENSTEIN DISCUSSION QUESTIONS for Socratic Seminar (Wednesday & Thursday): Remember – the alternative assignment for not attending the seminar (provided I see a legitimate excuse note for that day) is an additional essay on a prompt you’ll receive when you return.

** Jot down your ideas on the following 13 questions. In addition, compose 3 new, provocative discussion questions utilizing ideas from the book not addressed here. You do not need to answer these, but you will possibly pose them in our seminar. **

1. The novel hinges on three allusions: “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,” Paradise Lost, and the myth of Prometheus. Choose one allusion and discuss how Mary Shelley utilizes it throughout Frankenstein.

2. One of the tragedies of Frankenstein is the refusal of other characters in the novel to recognize the monster as a full human being. Brainstorm a list of the qualities that make us human. Which of these qualities does the monster have? Which does he not have?

3. Discuss the role that nature plays in Shelley’s novel. Include examples that support your answer.

4. Analyze Mary Shelley’s use of setting throughout the novel.

 

5. When Frankenstein was first published in 1818, it had mixed reviews. Not everyone understood or enjoyed it. Today, however, we think of the book as a classic. Speculate about why some important pieces of literature aren’t treasured right away, while others that are immediately popular eventually fade away.

6. What does this book have to say about science and ethics? How could we use it/ apply it to issues today?

7. The monster is on trial for the murder of William.  Would you rather be the prosecutor or the defense?  What would be the main tenants of your argument?

8. Victor is on trial for William’s murder. Would you rather be the prosecutor or the defense?  What would be the main tenants of your argument?

9. How much of the novel was determined by destiny?  How much was determined by Victor’s conscious decisions?

10. Who is the true villain of the novel? Is there even a true villain in the novel?

11. In the text, the monster says, “All men hate the wretched; how, then, must I be hated, whom am miserable beyond all livings things!” Consider this quote as the condemning statement of mankind that it is, within the larger context of the novel. The juxtaposition of the monster with the rest of humanity provides a great contrast to humanity. What vision of mankind does Shelly want us to have as readers?

12. As Shelly presents both Victor Frankenstein and the monster, we see two stark examples of moral failure. How do their ideas of right and wrong get in the way of being successful members of society? (You may also bring in Joan Didion’s essay “On Morality” into your response to this question.)

13. Does Shelly want us as readers to believe that we should have forbidden knowledge after having read her novel? Why or why not?

Three Original Questions:

1)

2)

3)

How the Seminar Works:

When you enter class on Wednesday, have your responses to questions and original questions out on your desk so I can walk around and check that you’ve “prepared” for the seminar. This equates to half of your grade (15 points).

The class will be divided into small groups of 4, 5, or 6 – these groups will comprise the inner circle. Each inner circle will have approximately 10 minutes to discuss concepts, questions, and ideas from their completed responses (reverse side). While each inner circle discusses, the outer circle (the rest of the class) takes notes and observes. Groups will rotate in and out when time is called.

The Hot Seat: This is a feature that allows members of the outer circle to participate by simply making a quick comment or asking a quick question – it’s “hot” so students have to get in and get out. Only 3 people from the outer circle may use the hot seat in each round to ensure time for the inner circle to discuss.

Evaluation: Students must make three quality/ insightful contributions during their time in the inner circle. These can be a combination of questions and comments. Only thoughtful participation will merit an A for this activity.

Tips for a Successful Seminar:

• Go in knowing a few things you’d like to talk about or pose to the group to avoid “dead time”

• Be a leader. If you see someone who hasn’t had an opportunity to speak, ask them a question specifically

• Branch off of each other. Don’t simply ask popcorn questions. Try to follow a topic and explore it

• Agree and disagree politely, but be honest and express your opinions

• Support theories or opinions with evidence (examples from the text)

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