Senior College Prep: Summer Reading

Othello by (you must bring the text to class the first day—any variation that has line numbers is acceptable) Watch, and preferably follow along with the text, the 1995 film starring Kenneth Branagh and then answer the following questions.

1) Follow the course of in the play, and discuss how the play presents Iago's tragedy as well as Othello's. Begin with examining what kind of man Iago seems to be. How does he appear to others? Is he intelligent or stupid, charming or not? Does he have the capacity to be a great man, a noble leader like Othello or is there something wrong with his character? If so what is wrong? Finally, what is tragic about Iago? List your personal feelings about this character. Do you sympathize ultimately or do you dislike him?

2) Follow the course of Othello in the play. Focus on the changes in Othello. At the beginning of the play what kind of man does he seem to be? How does he appear to others? Is he intelligent or stupid, rash or controlled, a great man or not? Trace the stages of his deterioration once Iago sets his game. Why does he act as he does? What is it about him that causes his tragedy? Finally, what is tragic about Othello? The conclusion might be about your personal feelings toward him. List these conclusions.

3) Follow the courses of , , Cassio and Roderigo. What purpose does each of them provide to the Othello and Iago? Do you sympathize with them? Be ready to explain your decisions.

And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie After you have read the book, answer the following questions. Caution: The movie is not a substitute for reading the book.

1) Make a list of the characters in the front of your notebook. For each include: name, occupation, characteristics, background information, order and cause of death.

2) Consider the function of the nursery rhyme and the corresponding little figure on the table.

3) Be prepared to discuss why Indian Island exerts such a strong pull on those invited.

4) Was justice or mercy accomplished on Indian Island? Why or Why not?

5) What does the novel suggest happens when one’s ordinary world falls apart?