Understanding The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe: A Poetry Analysis

In this class, students will analyze the poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe. Students will be asked to read the poem prior to class.  We, as a class, will discuss the structure and meaning of the poem through an examination of the piece's meter, rhyme, sound, setting, characterization, symbolism, and setting.  We will also discuss the history of Edgar Allan Poe and how his history applies to this poem. While we discuss this poem and history of the author, students will create a work of visual or written art to reflect their understanding of "The Raven." Students can bring any art supplies to class to create their work of art. For example, they can bring paints and canvas to paint, markers or pencils and paper to draw or sketch, clay to sculpt, or even paper on which to write a poem or thoughts about the story. The only limit is the students' imagination. At the end of class, students will share their art and discuss their creations. 
This class will be taught through discussion with the teacher and other students. I will have a PowerPoint presentation to assist with the discussion. I believe students should have a chance to talk through their own ideas about literature to gain a greater understanding of interpretation and meaning of the literary piece. Students will be asked open-ended questions about the poem and will take turns sharing their opinions. Such sharing will be facilitated by the teacher.