3 Classic Novels by C. Brontë, Mary Shelley, and E. Brontë

During this semester class, we will use the Socratic-style to discuss the following three books: 
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

This is a Socratic-style class. Each student will be encouraged to voice their opinions while using evidence from the text. I do ask that cameras be on during class. This helps to create a friendly and engaging atmosphere. If you prefer that your learner's camera be off during class, please let me know. 

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë was first published in 1847 under the pseudonym Currer Bell. Jane Eyre provides a realistic portrayal of Victorian life through the eyes of the main character. The novel begins with 10-year-old Jane Eyre living with her uncle's family after being orphaned. She is later sent to Lowood School where she endures mistreatment and a strict education. After graduating and working as a teacher at Lowood, Jane leaves Lowood and takes a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall. It is here that she meets Edward Rochester, the Byronic character. The story continues as Jane's principles and beliefs are constantly challenged.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley 1818 edition: From Common Sense Media- Parents need to know that the 1818 novel that launched dozens of Hollywood horror movies bears little resemblance to any of them, but is quite creepy enough, flowery prose and all, and, historically speaking, went a long way toward inspiring a genre in which things go very badly for many reels. It's also a mainstay of high school honors literature classes and a good intro to both Gothic literature and science fiction. Its themes of delving into the dark arts will have allure for the Twilight set, while the science project run amok (and the arrogance of its creators) is a subject that remains all too timely. Bigotry alert: One of the subplots involves noble Christian characters who risk all to save a Muslim friend from certain death, and once safe he betrays them to an evil fate. 

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë- Common Sense Media Review- Parents need to know that Wuthering Heights is a gorgeous, epic novel of love and revenge, full of passion and unforgettable characters. The novel bears little resemblance to familiar film versions in which Heathcliff is interpreted as a misunderstood romantic. Heathcliff's pride and suffering make him cruel, menacing, and his and Cathy's end is not the stuff of fairy tales. However, the novel is thrilling, and it is full of its own kind of romance. It's also worth noting that there are almost certainly ghosts in this book, though Bronte leaves it up to the reader whether or not to believe.

As we progress through the stories, we will discuss: how the author creates the mood and tone using figurative language, the implications of cause and effect relationships in regards to the story line and characters, internal and external conflicts that move the plot along, the development and changes that occur within the main character, and themes. 
I will post assignments after each class. If the assignment is completed and shared with me, I will grade it. At the end of the 16-week course, I will provide a grade report. If no assignments are submitted, no grade report will be provided. 


** All classes will begin on time as long as there is at least one learner in the classroom. If there are no students in the class 10 minutes after the class start time, the teacher will exit the classroom. This class cannot be taught with zero students. No recording will be available for classes with zero attendance.