The purpose of this class is to introduce students to classic short stories, help develop their comprehension skills, and involve them in the identification and discussion of literary techniques such as imagery and irony. 

Frank Stockton's classic story "The Lady, or the Tiger" examines the idea of barbarism vs civilization and justice vs randomness. In the story, a princess has fallen in love with a commoner, and her semi-barbaric father, according to his own "just" rules of fairness, orders the commoner to choose between two doors. One holds a beautiful maiden he must immediately marry... and the other holds a hungry tiger. 

The princess knows which door is which... but what fate will she send her lover to? 

Students should read the story (available upon enrollment) before class and come prepared to discuss the plot, themes, writing style, and use of literary devices. Before class, students will also receive a list of comprehension questions that will aid their understanding. 

The class format will involve a thorough examination of the work interspersed with presentation of literary devices. Students are encouraged to participate and should have a copy of the story for notetaking. 

After class, students will receive a list of questions that they are welcome to answer and submit to the instructor. 

Sample questions: 

1) Discuss the "great scheme of retribution and reward." Was it, as the king claimed, completely fair? What is your opinion?

2) Write your own ending. Tell which door the young man opens and provide a short explanation in the same style of writing as the story.