Option 1: Discuss how Jackson’s “The Lottery” uses specific elements of fiction (e.g. setting, characters, title, dialogue, point of view) to mislead the reader into thinking this will be a happy story. Then find a few examples of foreshadowing that hint at the ending.
Option 2: Discuss the climax of O’Connor’s story. What do you think of the moment when the Grandmother reaches out to the Misfit? O’Connor says, “she realizes, even in her limited way, that she is responsible for the man before her and joined to him by ties of kinship which have their roots deep in the mystery she has been merely prattling about so far. And at this point, she does the right thing, she makes the right gesture” (1199). Do you agree with O’Connor? Why do you think the Grandmother makes this gesture? Do you think her gesture does change or will change the Misfit?
Option 3: Every dystopia is a commentary on the society that produced it. In Vonnegut’s story, what flaws in our own society a re being held up for scrutiny? What ideals are being criticized? What commentary does this story offer on the role of government? What, if anything, is wrong with Hazel’s comment, “he tried. That’s the big thing. He tried to do the best he could with what God gave him” (945)?
Option 4: Nakazawa has faced some criticism for using the graphic novel for such a serious subject. (So have other artists and writers who have used the graphic novel format for challenging topics – see Module 4 – Analysis and Commentary). In your opinion, what are the risks and benefits of using the graphic novel format for difficult material? Also, based on this excerpt from Barefoot Gen, are you interested in reading the rest of this graphic novel? Why or why not?
Option 5: About Le Guin’s story, P.L. Thomas states, “The horror of this allegory is that the sacrifice is a child…” (197). Why do you think Le Guin chose a child? What role does the tormented child play in the story? How does it affect the citizens of Omelas? Why do some citizens leave? Do you think they are right to walk away?
Option 6: Consider O’Brien’s style and language. How and why does he use profanity? Why does O’Brien use so much military jargon? Why does O’Brien include so many lists? Finally, find one or two examples of figurative language, and discuss how O’Brien’s figurative language affects the story.
