Mitchell Griest
Oedipus Rex
Original Comment
Judging by his convincing speech of how he feels the pain of each of his poor constituents throb together as one in the beginning of the play, it is clear that Oedipus has genuine concern for the well being of those over whom he rules. Unfortunately, this focus on others only lasts so long before King Oedipus’ mind is occupied with the unquenchable thirst for answers which becomes his tragic flaw. With each question he asks and finds the terrible answer to, Oedipus realizes with a bit more certainty that the prophecy came true and he has committed horrific acts. His fixation on knowledge of the past even results in his ignoring Jocasta’s desperate plea when she says “for Heaven’s sake if you care for your own life, / Don’t seek it! I am sick, and that’s enough!” (40). The answers he finds at last, too terrible to bear with any stature, cost him a truly tragic price when they lead him to an exiled end, blind by his own tormented hand. Had he been able to end his search for answers when it became apparent that only pain would come of it, Oedipus would have been able to avoid the knowledge which will define his very being to the grave.

Siddhartha by Herman Hesse

Note: To fully understand and appreciate Siddhartha, it may be helpful for you to explore concepts like spiritual enlightenment, self-reflection, and even some of the more specific ideas and beliefs of Buddhism. Words like brahmin, ascetics, samanas, nirvana, and om, are very culturally specific and warrant some understanding while trying to make meaning and relevance out of this text. It would be in your best interest to note these words as you come across them in the text and do some quick, informal research on these topics.


Siddhartha explores the path to spiritual enlightenment. In the novel, Siddhartha encounters several people who aid him in one way or another toward achieving enlightenment. Can you discuss at least one important person on Siddhartha's journey who aids in his self-discovery? Be specific as to how that individual helps Siddhartha. Also, in your own life, have there been specific people who have helped you discover important realizations about yourself? Be sure to use false names when writing about real people.

Why is it important for American students to read and understand world literature about other cultures, religions and ways of life? What important lessons learned from Siddhartha's way of life are especially relevant to American culture today? Why? 

Siddhartha, too, is rich with symbolism. Again, without consulting resource web cites, can you identify a minimum of three important symbols and explain their significance.

Is it best to learn by studying the ways of others and imitating them or by experiencing life yourself? Define what you think is the best path of education or, if you will, enlightenment and defend your stance.

Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart

Before addressing the following question, you should do a bit of research on the following concepts: colonialism and post-colonialism writing. Once you know what these terms mean, relate them to a discussion of the novel.

Once again, the novel Things Fall Apart can be very relevant to the world in which we live today. From conflicts created due to culture clashes to characters that are ruled by a force which ultimately leads to great strife and anguish, Achebe's novel has a bit of everything. What comparisons can you draw from the novel and current happenings in the world today. As always, support your response with ample textual support.

What is the greatest lesson to be learned from Okonkwo in Things Fall Apart and why is that lesson important for students in today's society to learn?

This novel is typically a "love it or hate it" read. What did you think? Why? It is always much easier to criticize a novel of this nature than defend its merit, but what redeeming qualities did you find? Why do you suppose this novel is on the AP College Board's Reading List? Why should it be considered a classic?

Symbolism is important in Things Fall Apart. Without consulting sparknotes or other sources, what objects, people, places, ideas, etc. do you think are symbolic? What might they represent? Note: The teachers DO compare student ideas with "resource support" cites like sparknotes.

1984 by George Orwell

Orwell's 1984 is a cautionary tale; it warns against the dangers of a totalitarian regime that hinders intellectual freedom and liberty. In the novel, Orwell creates a dystopia; however, there are traces of Orwell's fictional world found in today's society. Can you find parallels between Winston's Oceania and the world in which we live today? (Note: You may have to do a bit of background research on the following words: dystopia, social commentary science fiction, and intellectual freedom.)

Another idea to make note of as you read and think about 1984 is the notion of paradox. What is a paradox and can you identify several paradoxical situations present in novel?

What other aspects or ideas of the novel did you find interesting to discuss? Can you draw comparisons between this novel and other social commentary novels you have read in the past? Can you comment on Orwell's writing style? (Remember, you do not have to address every question given in the prompts; however, we put several different ideas here so that you are not all responding to the same questions. Feel free to explore your own ideas as well as respond to other classmates or even pose your own questions.)

Oedipus Rex/ Oedipus the King

For your original post in response to Oedipus, select one of the following ideas to elaborate on:

As you read Oedipus the King, be sure to make note of the various types of irony present in the play. Can you identify examples of all three (verbal, situational, dramatic)?

Oedipus the King is a Greek Tragedy (hint, hint: genre alert); therefore, there are some key components that exist in the play that are present in all Greek Tragedies. One component is the idea that human beings are flawed, and Greek tragic protagonists always have a tragic flaw that leads to their ultimate downfall or destruction. Can you identify Oedipus' tragic flaw? How does it contribute to his downfall?

Do you have a flaw that acts as an obstacle to your own success or can you think of an example of another person in real life that has a tragic flaw? You can consider politicians, historical figures, celebrities, or people you know personally. If you write about someone you know personally, you must conceal their identity by giving them a false name. Also, consider comparing yourself or this other person with Oedipus in the play.

Look up some of the other common elements to a Greek Tragedy. Which do you find in Oedipus?

Welcome and Basic Guidelines

Welcome to the AP English Summer Reading Blog! We are excited to offer this exciting opportunity for discussing and sharing our thoughts on the great pieces of literature we will be reading this summer.

We will begin the blog with one prompt per summer read. The posts may contain multiple questions; however do not feel as though you have to address every question. We are putting multiple questions up to decrease the amount of repetitive answers/responses. Your job will be to respond to our post with an original response, and then comment on the responses of two other classmates. Be sure that you comment a total of three times for each summer read. You will receive credit for doing so, therefore be sure to include your name (you could use your first initial and last name if you'd like), especially if your email address does not verify your identity to your teachers. Really, the blog is meant to be a pretty informal forum for us to talk about the readings, post interesting insights, and ask any questions that are boggling your mind.

A few guidelines:

• Be sure to keep it positive and academic!
• No inappropriate language.
• Be clear as to whom you are responding.
• Please note that before you can begin posting, you must be invited to the blog by either Mrs. Armstrong or Mrs. Braasch. Please email either teacher and include your name and email address, so you can beging blogging!
• Armstrong's email: armstrk@brightonk12.com
• Braasch's email: braascj@brightonk12.com

Have a great summer and happy reading!