02/03/12-02/06/12

Topic: Plot structure and surprise endings.
Lecture:Begin by watching Neil Gaiman read his short story, "Other People." Because we are looking at plot structure, and surprise endings, you can read this story on more of a surface level. However, monitor your own understanding and reread (or re-listen) anytime that you become confused. This story has a circular plot structure, which means that you end up in the same place that you began. What effect does this have on our understanding of traditional plot structure? What does it do for the overall meaning of the story?
Homework: Read "The Open Window" in the orange text book. Write a brief summary of the story, focusing on the ending. Look for ways that Saki may have foreshadowed the ending. Also, look for ways that he intentionally concealed it or mislead you.
Resources: Neil Gaiman reads "Other People." "Other People"