Initial Response Assignment

For each term, please choose one of the classes on the syllabus for which you will submit a short essay response of 600-700 words the day before the class takes place.  The purpose of this assignment is to allow you to participate in discussion of the work outside the classroom and before you have had a chance to hear the remarks of  your colleagues.  You should address the three points below in this initial response essay.  Please do not do research for this assignment.  This is your chance to voice your opinions and back them up with specifics from the work.  Your challenge will be to write concisely, citing specific evidence for your view.

1. Identify the main idea of the work.

2. Indicate what in your view is the most significant feature to development of theme and explain how this feature contributes to thematic development.

3. Explain the importance of this work to your understanding of Victorian culture.

Please send me your choices by Thursday 13 September 2007.  There is no limit on the number of students who can respond to a specific class.  I will confirm individual due dates by return email.