Method.
1. Simple presentation of the differences between poetry and prose;
(1) in purpose, (2) in thought (subject), (3) in choice and use of words, (4) in sound.
2. Short drill on selected figures, principally of imagination. Choose only those rich in meaning and within the range of the experience of the class. Work to bring out the gain from the figure.
3. Present the music side of poetry—rhythm, meter, rhyme (including alliteration), and give a drill on various selections to train the ear.
4. “Vision of Sir Launfal.” Study for beauty of thought, ethical content and its application to modern life, and beauty of pictures and figures. Give much attention to the visualizing power. Try to show that the poetic language and form are a gain.
5. Study of other narratives on same general plan. If time permit, study a few lyrics rich in content and poetic beauty, such as Tennyson’s “Lotus Eaters,” or Shelley’s “Skylark;” (1) for thought; (2) for beauty of word usage; (3) for melody.
6. “Merchant of Venice.” Study (1) for what happens—the sequence of events and their relation to each other; (2) for a knowledge of the characters and the motives actuating them; (3) for fine lines; (4) for strongest and most beautiful scenes; (5) for beauty of language, noting scenes richest in poetic expression and its appropriateness; (6) for structure; i.e., the major and minor stories and their relation to each other. Throughout the whole emphasize the fact that the play is a picture of human life; make the characters and the scenes real.
7. “Sesame and Lilies.” Study to stimulate thought and to arouse a further interest in fine literature. Train in the way to read prose; i. e., the finding of the main thought (topic sentence), and tracing its growth in the paragraph; also the necessity for knowing the real significance of the words used.
TENTH YEAR.