LAST WEEK: Scholars posted their college essay questions, and we reviewed all of these, analyzing the question--is it a why me, why us, or some other form of both? We also put to bed--for the moment--the summer reading, having finished a hero journey analysis of the frame narrative you had written about. Perhaps most important, we finished viewing the Moyers/Campbell video, "The Hero's Adventure."

Monday

No class because of late-start schedule.
HW: You should have read through and including page 50 of The Alchemist.

Tuesday

The test of the spoon. How does Santiago go about experiencing his world at first? Why does he become dissatisfied with "liv[ing] out his dream" in this fashion (Coelho 12)? What role does the gypsy and Melchizedek, King of Salem, play in this change? Are Urim and Thummin an aid, or an obstacle, on the journey to come? After some discussion and playing out the test of the spoon, we will close with brainstorming for the college essay.
Hw: Create a cluster map that details the lessons Santiago learns in part one of The Alchemist. You will use this in our class discussion tomorrow.

Wednesday

We will start with discussion: What lesson has Santiago learned to date, now that he has taken up work with the crystal merchant in Africa? Then, college essay Q&A, and more brainstorming.
HW: Read up through and including page 67 in The Alchemist. You should also be working on your first draft to the college essay.

Thursday

Discussion: If the gypsy and the old man spur him on his journey at first, why does he choose to leave the crystal merchant and continue his quest? We will listen to a college essay in class.
HW: Read up through and including page 86 in The Alchemist. Continue writing your college essay.

Friday

Discussion: who is the Englishman, and what does Santiago learn from him? In class work on college essay.
HW: Read up through and including page 107 in The Alchemist. You should have a working first draft of your college essay done by Monday.