Description
The assigned readings were meant to set the stage for how we see women and how women see themselves. They’ve shown us that women are entitled to the entire gamut of their emotions—including feelings of rage. They’ve also sought to set aside the tropes of girls and women being “good” or “likeable,” in order to fit in to some existing rule about female identity. These readings have also informed us about male emasculation, as women attempt to evolve and push back against old standards of womanhood and femininity. Finally, they’ve also taught us that defining womanhood becomes evermore complicated when we begin to factor in race, Class, culture, and economic power and status.
What we have learned is that NONE of it is easy; and that every inch of it is complicated. You were asked to view Tracy Letts’ powerful film, August: Osage County. Based on his award-winning play, Letts once said he wanted to write something that reflected the stories of the women he grew up with—their histories in all their complexity. And, their stories are complex. And sad. And heartbreaking. And, at times, difficult to watch. In your Reader Response, consider the film alongside the readings, and explore the following considerations.
In your opinion, which reading feels most closely aligned with the themes explored in the film?
What are the specific connections between your selected text and the film (and its characters)?
What felt most shocking/revealing in your selected text(s) and the film?
What did you learn?
As a result of the reading and the film, have you forged a new perspective/understanding of womanhood? If so, what is it/are they?
Your Reader Response must adhere to the following guidelines:
Must be at least five body paragraphs and no more than two pages long
Follow the Scaffolding Format/MLA (see the posted Tutorial I)
Follow the basic rules of grammar and punctuation (edit your sentences)
Use quotes from the text to support your argument/position
Must be double-spaced, with margins set at 1inch on either side of the document