English 2200
Introduction to Literature

Course Documents

Extra Credit Opportunities

Readings Online

February 10--Billy Collins Day. In preparation for seeing Billy Collins' presentation (and quiz #5), read the following poems and interview.

"Forgetfulness"
"Forgetfulness" (Watch the clip of "Action Poetry")
"Introduction to Poetry"
"A Brisk Walk: Billy Collins in Conversation"

January 11--Read the "To be or not to be" speech in Hamlet. Prior to this passage, Hamlet's father has been murdered by Hamlet's uncle, and Hamlet is debating what action he should take in response. Throughout much of the play, Hamlet fails to act decisively, and this scene is one of many where he waffles back and forth. If needed, read this aloud.

January 11--Read the scene from Anna Deavere Smith's play Twilight: Los Angeles narrated by a white juror who voted to acquit the officers charged in the Rodney King beating. Smith herself plays this character. Imagine how you would want these lines delivered if you were the director of the play.

January 11--Watch this clip from the TV show The West Wing. In this clip, the president (played by Martin Sheen) is watching a musical. He has also ordered--with mixed feelings--the assasination of a terrorist plotting an an attack against the nation. The assasination happens during the musical performance. As you watch, notice how the dialogue in the TV script is performed in this TV drama (watch for costuming, music, camera angles, tones of voice, setting, etc. that seem significant).