Next fall when I teach two response to literature courses, I may use the theme of "heroes and monsters." Under the hero category, I may include some speeches by and about Robert Kennedy, along with eulogies of known and unknown people. I may ask them to try their hand at writing either a eulogy or something inspirational. I would also like to ask them to study the speeches and eulogies for technique and purpose. It seems to me that when the word "literature" is mentioned, speeches get overlooked. Regarding the possible RFK project, I would like students to think about why more people are cynical about politicians these days.
Well of course hope you'll include Shakespeare then- best eulogies ever-
ReplyDeleteGretchen