Eliot's+The+Wasteland

Modernism Smore

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Today you will work with your groups to dissect your piece of T.S. Eliot's "The Wasteland." Do the following in this order please:

1. Discuss: what is the purpose of a writer using allusion (other than to be fancy and esoteric)?

2. Sit with your group and read through your chosen section on link below. Read all the notes in the margins on the allusions in the poem. Choose roughly 3 that seem interesting and research them for more information. Take notes on your copy of the poem.

3. After combing through your section, gather as a group and chat a bit about your findings. Each person should choose a topic that s/he can write about in greater depth. Each person will write their own half a page-ish response on the chosen topic (that you can provide evidence for within your section of the text). If you read this poem and have no idea where to start, use the link below titled "Guiding Questions."**

4. Once each group member has finished you will reconvene and share. Ask your peers for suggestions and clarification. Decide how all the pieces fit together. Collectively discuss (and be able to share: hint, hint) any or all of the following questions: Provide proof from the text.
 * What is the resonating sentiment(s) in this section of the poem?
 * What is the main message Eliot is trying to send?
 * What do we hold onto when (we feel) there is nothing else left?

5. Each group should print their responses and BRING THEM TO CLASS.

6. If you have extra time, you can always read and wiki post.



[|Eliot's "The Wasteland"]