The Pearl -- Prereading

To prepare for beginning John Steinbeck's The Pearl next week, please give a thoughtful response to the question below, if possible during class on September 11, but no later than Sunday, September 13.

How would your life change if you suddenly acquired a fortune through an unexpected inheritance, a lottery win, or finding and selling a valuable artifact? Would it alter your life plans? Would you start to live your life differently? Would it change you as a person? Would it change your relationships?

Guiding Questions

As one of your first contributions to class this year, please write about one of the guiding questions listed below. Your comments will help the class choose one or two ideas to focus our reading, writing, and discussion this semester. In a well-worded paragraph, explain which question interests you the most and why you think it would be a good focus for the class. If you are unable to post your paragraph here, email it to Mr. Sale or, as a last resort, print it out and bring it to class. Post your response by midnight, Thursday, August 20, 2009.

• What sustains us?
• Can you buy your way to happiness?
• Does age matter?
• Is fame worth it?
• Who defines us?
• What is our social responsibility?
• Are men and women equal?