In Humanities, we confront the question, “What does it mean to be human?” through various lenses. As an often discussion based class, I am able to learn from the insights and experiences of my peers while also practicing public speaking and critical thought. These discussions, and the course as a whole, have greatly influenced my perspective of myself and of the world.
During the Juniors’ trip to Bournedale, groups performed skits
commenting on Henry David Thoreau’s Walden,
which had been read as a summer reading book. My group (Adnan, Erica,
Nick) decided to bring Thoreau onto the Dr. Phil show. Our skit
commented on Thoreau’s frequent self-contradictions but also called to
attention the crucial lessons that readers should take from his work.
We embellished our skit with props and costumes such as a woodchuck
mask and bald cap. Performing in front of my peers, and watching their
skits, was a great way to laugh and get to know they people I will be
journeying with this year.
I Thoreau-ly enjoyed
this experience. Portraying Thoreau was one of my fondest memories so
far in Junior year.
Unable to display PDF file? Download the script instead.
During B-Term, in Humanities, we learned how to analyze satires. We began by reading and analyzing several satires as a class. At the end of the term, we each got to pick a satire to be the subject of a satirical analysis essay. For my essay, I analyzed The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss. In my essay, I discussed how Dr. Seuss successfully used satirical devices including caricature, reduction, diction, and repetition to warn audiences of all ages of the harm that can be caused by racism and discrimination. I thought that Dr. Seuss' simple message was especially impactful since The Sneetches was written in the wake of World War 2 and in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement.
Click here to watch The Sneetches
Unable to display PDF file? Download the essay instead.