My Fall Literature Course by Sara Figueroa

Week 1 - Fiction -Xu Xi’s “Famine.”

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:22:35 UTC

The phrase "Now, eat" encapsulates the resolution of Xu Xi's story through its brevity and simplicity, symbolizing the culmination of emotional tension, reconciliation, or acceptance. Food often transcends its physical nourishment to become a healing, connection, or grounding metaphor. These two words imply an invitation to be present, to nourish not only the body but the soul, and to engage in the shared human experience of sustenance. The simplicity of the phrase makes it powerful—it cuts through complex emotions and brings the characters and readers back to a universal need and comfort.

Week 2 - Mark Twain "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County"

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:27:00 UTC

The story is not just about the frog or the bet—it’s about how Twain uses humor and exaggeration to comment on human nature. His ability to capture the quirks of small-town life and turn a simple story into a piece of literary art makes it a classic.

Week 3 - Poetry- Kahlil Gibran’s On Joy and Sorrow

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:31:39 UTC

Gibran’s tone and perspective are deeply spiritual, suggesting that these emotions are part of a divine plan. Joy and sorrow are portrayed as gifts from a higher power meant to guide and shape the soul.

Week 4 - Poetry - Maya Angelou Still I Rise

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:36:50 UTC

The repeated refrain, “Still I rise,” emphasizes unyielding strength despite hardships. Angelou asserts that no matter the obstacles or attempts to suppress her, she will rise with dignity and determination.

Week 5 - Drama - William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, Acts 1-3

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:48:35 UTC

Key Themes and Ideas:

Deception and Misunderstanding
Love and Courtship
Honor and Reputation
Gender Roles and Power Dynamics

Week 6 - Drama - Much Ado About Nothing Acts 4 and 5

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 15:53:19 UTC

Key Themes and Ideas:

Redemption and Forgiveness
Gender and Honor
Love and Its Complexity
Justice and Foolishness

Week 7 - Drama - August Wilson's The Piano Lesson

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 16:01:04 UTC

The story revolves around a family heirloom—a piano intricately carved with images of their ancestors. The piano symbolizes the family’s history, including their enslavement and resilience.

Week 8 - My Course Reflection

sfiguer3_1 — 2024-12-09 16:20:41 UTC

Literature is profoundly important in both individual lives and society at large. It shapes our understanding of the world, fosters empathy, and preserves cultural heritage. It offers timeless insights that transcend generations, making it an essential force in one’s lifetime and beyond.