Assignment
1. View Literary Theory Demystified (53 minutes- listen to at least the first 15 minutes and skim to read information provided
within the video)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaDTqXvhzaA
2. Resources:
a. http://www.iep.utm.edu/literary/
b. https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/722/01/
c. http://www.shmoop.com/literary-criticism/
d. http://vos.ucsb.edu/browse.asp?id=2718
3. Watch movie – Slumdog Millionaire
4. Analysis must be grounded in the following literary theory:Philosophical Approach
5. Compose a film analysis essay (650-800 words). Allow the following questions to guide you interpretation of the film (for
additional help, see http://www.cod.edu/people/faculty/pruter/film/):
a. Describe the film in general terms. Begin by contextualizing your analysis within the definitive framework of your literary
theory. What subjects does it cover and how does the literary theory you selected help guide your understanding of those topics?
Discuss the elements of plot and setting. Are any literary techniques such as symbolism, character development and foreshadowing
used?
b. What major themes are present within the film? How does your interpretation of those themes affected by your choice of
literary theory?
c. Evaluate the film for aesthetic quality and overall entertainment value. Comment on the screenplay, acting, direction,
production values, and even music.
d. Relate the film to class discussions, readings, notes, and/or prior knowledge. Is the film historically (or factually)
accurate and realistic? Does it contradict or support anything you have learned?
e. Finally, summarize briefly emphasizing the strengths and weaknesses of the film. What issues does the film raise? What do
you see as the main purpose of the film (social, political, religious/spiritual, etc.)?
6. Be sure to utilize MLA citation style to cite your sources.
Notes
Philosophical Approach: This approach focuses on themes, view of the world, moral statements author’s philosophy, etc.
A. What view of life does the story present? Which character best articulates this viewpoint?
B. According to this work’s view of life, what is mankind’s relationship to God? To the universe?
C. What moral statement, if any, does this story make? Is it explicit or implicit?
D. What is the author’s attitude toward his world? Toward fate? Toward God?
E. What is the author’s conception of good and evil?
F. What does the work say about the nature of good or evil?
G. What does the work say about human nature?