The Dramatic Form and Riders to the Sea Discussion 1

Chapter Thirteen discusses the major elements of drama and distinguishes the form from other genres like the short story and poetry. Using the play Riders to the Sea (Synge) as an example, discuss what elements and qualities make drama unique as a literary form. Support your ideas with textual evidence from Synge’s play. In your post, take into consideration how the literary themes of Riders to the Sea relate to the dramatic form. Initial posts must be 200 to 300 words in length and posted by Day 3. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts. In your response, indicate what you have learned from your classmates’ answers and share how their responses have improved your understanding of the importance of editing as you work through your final drafts this week. Be specific in your responses. Response posts must be 125 to 200 words in length and posted by Day 7.  

Macbeth as Tragedy  Discussion 2

Shakespeare’s Macbeth is often considered one of literature’s greatest tragedies and is said to reveal much about human nature. Do you agree or disagree that the play conveys much about humanity or about the human experience? What, if anything, does the work suggest about human beings or society? Support your views with textual details and analysis. In your response, address how Macbeth’s subject matter, themes, form, or other literary elements might (or might not) be characteristic of tragedy. How do tragic qualities of the play contribute (or not) to the story’s larger message(s)? Initial posts must be 200 to 300 words in length and posted by Day 3. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts. In your response, indicate what you have learned from your classmates’ answers and share how their responses have improved your understanding of the importance of editing as you work through your final drafts this week. Be specific in your responses. Response posts must be 125 to 200 words in length and posted by Day 7.