It was wonderful to meet everyone this morning. I am looking forward to working with you this semester as we sample some literature.
The first reading for Wednesday will be the first act of A Doll's House. If you don't have your book yet, here is a link to an online version that is out of copyright: https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2542/2542-h/2542-h.htm
The translation is a little different, but the font seems to be very readable. We will also be watching some scenes from the 1973 film version starring Claire Bloom and Anthony Hopkins if the computer permits. Here is a link to the opening scene from the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwnBukRiRJI As I mentioned in class, that same year Jane Fonda starred in a competing film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjX-u7yAWDs&t=1s
Let's start with a few opening questions for your journals:
-- What jumped out at you as you read Act 1 of A Doll's House? Why?
-- Many of you have read Shakespeare. How is Ibsen's play similar to Shakespeare? How is it different?
-- Have you been to a play in DC, at your high school, or elsewhere (including NYC or London)? What was it like to watch a live play?
-- In class, we went over a few characteristics of drama/theater: character, plot, setting, central idea, and stage directions. How did they help you understand A Doll's House a little more?
-- How would you describe Nora and Helmer's marriage? Why?
-- How would you describe Nora as a person? Helmer as a person? Why?
-- Do you watch TV shows about the past (Masterpiece Theater, Game of Thrones, etc.)? How do they help you understand Nora and Helmer's world?
-- How does watching the brief film clips that I've included help you understand Ibsen's play a little more?
Gillian Anderson has also played Nora recently as has British actor Hattie Morahan.
I'm looking forward to seeing what you have to say!
Prof. Szlyk
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