Esteban's development

How do you view Esteban Trueba’s development as a character in this novel? Discuss the significance of how he changes as a character.

Confinement

After discussing figurative terms of constraint in class, what type of constraint do you think is most prominent throughout the book and which characters does it affect the most?

Who is in Control?

The formal definition of colonialism is “the control or governing influence of a nation over a dependent country, territory, or people,” and we know from class discussions that colonization is mental as well as physical. What effect does colonization have on intimate relationships? How does this form of power and control translate to marriage? (Clara, Esteban; the Count, Blanca, Pedro Tercero; Miguel, Alba)

Is there evidence to argue that Clara loved Ferula more than Esteban?

In your opinion, does it benefit Clara to be able to predict what will happen and create her own destiny, or does it hurt her?

free and poor vs. take care of and enslaved

Before Esteban comes to Tres Marias, the people there are poor and unhealthy, but they are free. Once Esteban essentially takes over the estate, the property's condition improves and the people are visibly more healthy than before, but their freedom has been revoked by Esteban. Is it better to be free but impoverished or taken care of and almost enslaved?

Moon is Down question

Why do you think that John Steinbeck only implied, but never directly stated that the conquerors were nazis?

Is The Tempest a Satire?

Assuming that Shakespeare is trying to make a statement, is The Tempest a satire or a serious representation of colonialism? Use the language of the play and the portrayals of the characters to explain your answer.

Colonial Literature

According to"Imperialism and Textuality", what are some defining characteristics of colonial literature? What is the value of discussing literature in this context?

Is Prospero an A+ Dad, or is he an F?

Now further into the novel of The Tempest, we are starting to feel acquainted with the characters. We have watched Prospero interact with his daughter, Miranda, on many occasions. On page 23-24 Prospero says as an aside "They are both in either's powers. But this swift business I must uneasy make, lest too light winning make prize light." What do you interpret from this? Does he plan to just test Ferdinand and see how great he is, or is he trying to make their marriage or relationship more of a challenge to attain so that Ferdinand doesn't get Miranda too easily and therefore get bored with her and mistreat her. Is Prospero a good father to Miranda? Why or why not? You may take into consideration that he waited 15 years to tell her about his lost kingship. Was this for her benefit?

Changing Voices

The Tempest is widely considered the last play written independently by William Shakespeare. Knowing this, do you find a difference in the language in this play than you do in other works you’ve read? Think of Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Henry IV Pt. II.

Favorites Quotes

Choose one of your favorite passages from the summer reading and post it here.  Then explain why you found it moving and what it means to you.

Thinking About Summer Reading

Can you identify any common themes explored in both The Optimist's Daughter and Let the Great World Spin? How do these books fit into our course theme, Strangers in a Strange Land?