Question for December 9: Rasselas, 2717-20 and 2730-46

The story of Rasselas represents Samuel Johnson's attempt to explain a vital component in human nature--mankind's continual, often frustrating, search for personal happiness.  As we complete a semester of English 205, let's take the opportunity to recognize that we have been studying not only British history and literature, but also the written record of a number of thoughtful, intelligent English men and women through the ages who have tried to understand and explain what it means to be human.  While you are reviewing for the final exam, think back on what we have read.  Did you read anything this semester which made you think, "Yes, that's what people are like!" or "I know someone like that"?  Nominate your favorite piece of early British lit and explain why you like it.  Thank you for your comments!  I have enjoyed reading them and incorporating them into the course.

Question for December 7: Rasselas, Pages 2698-2717

Chapters 16-22 follow Rasselas as he observes people in various places and stations.  The pattern in each chapter is the same:  Rasselas thinks that he has at last found someone who has made "the choice of life," a way of living that leads to perfect happiness, but by the end of each chapter he is disappointed.  Choose any one of these chapters for your comment.  What sort of lifestyle has been chosen that seems to lead to happiness?  Why has happiness not been attained?  Can you find any modern parallels to the events of your chosen chapter.  (For this comment, since people may choose different chapters, it is not necessary to respond to previous posts.)

Question for December 5: Rasselas, pp. 2680-98

For Monday, let's focus on the first five chapters of Samuel Johnson's romance, Rasselas, on pages 2680-87.  In the first two chapters, the Happy Valley is described as a man-made paradise.  Rasselas, a prince of Abyssinia, has everything anyone could desire.  Or does he?  Why do you think Rasselas wants to leave the Happy Valley?

Question for December 2: The Beggar's Opera, pp. 2634-2656

Today, it's your turn to pick the topic.  Comment upon your reaction to "The Beggar's Opera."  Some possible issues:  Do Peachum and Lockit seem any more immoral than people in other professions than  theirs?  How are the two central female characters, Polly Peachum and Lucy Lockit, alike and/or different?  Do they have individuality, or are they merely "types"?  What is the effect of the surprise ending of the play?  Comment upon these or any other issue in the play, using a quotation from the text as a springboard for your remarks.  Also, read the comment before yours, and respond to it briefly.