First Writing Assignment and Notes Keeping a Journal:
As you will note from the syllabus, you are expected to keep a journal throughout the course. It will be collected at least twice during the semester. I will ask you to respond to specific questions about the assigned readings in the journal. I will also ask you to answer in the journal specific questions about each film you see in the course. The journal can be a loose-leaf folder in which you clip responses that you have written while watching a particular film. It will, however, probably work better if you take notes while watching the films and then write out a more complete analysis in a separate journal. The journal can be illustrated with maps, pictures, or graphics, photocopied or downloaded, if you wish. Imagination and creativity will be appreciated. You should purchase a journal or notebook now for this, or begin an on-line journal if you plan to use your computer.
Your first entry, if you attended the first class, is your response to "The Patriot" and “The Flag.” Your second entry will be a response to the two versions of the Fort William Henry “Massacre” you will see (review the movie notes attached to the syllabus to make sure you know the characters). You should address the following questions. Your answers can be short and concise. Note that you will not be able to enter an answer to the last question until you have completed the written assignment below.
1. How are Native Americans portrayed in the film versions.
2. How are women portrayed in the film versions?
3. What roles do Monro and Montcalm have in the movie version?
4. What values does Hawkeye represent or personify?
5. What message do the movies suggest about the “massacre” and more generally about early America?
Based on your reading of chapters 4-5 of Betrayals, turn in on Wednesday, February 4th, a 1-2 page statement (NO LONGER) of why the “massacre” occurred.
6. (In your journal) How would you contrast the explanation you have developed from Betrayals with that in the movies?