Great Books of the Western World

[Luanne]

What is the best way to prepare for reading these? I want to do this for self-education. So far I haven't been able to convince my daughter to join me. Then again, she isn't as academically minded as I am and that is ok.

Anyway .... what would be a good way to prepare for this adventure?

[Jenn in CA]

I think a good preparation for reading the Great Books is to read worthy literature like Dickens & Austen, and poets such as Tennyson. I like "208 Classic Poems" which is on the Ambleside Online website. I think reading and understanding poetry is very helpful and a good way to break out of the straightforward, contemporary writing that we're used to. Use online plot summaries/study guides if you're having trouble with them.

Then, when you're ready for the Great Books, here's what I've done. Pretty simple. Pick one that interests me. Find an online summary of the plot or the basic idea, or use Cliff's Notes. I might also read a children's version. Then start reading! Even if 90% goes over my head, I gain a lot just by trying. Then, I find that the next book, only 80% will go over my head. You get to read these books over and over. Don't feel like you have to "get it" all the first time or you're a failure.

I don't think it's necessary to read them in any order. I would stick with the ones that are most interesting to you. I'm currently reading Paradise Lost and Beowulf. I think Shakespeare would be a good author to start with. You can also watch a video version first, or after, whichever you prefer.

I think it's best to just start, rather than worry about whether you're ready to start!

Keep us posted on your progress.

[Whitneyz]

Any recommendations for learning how to read poetry?

Thanks,
Whitney

[Jane in NC]

Any recommendations for learning how to read poetry?

Thanks,
Whitney

Perhaps your library has Hirsch's book, How to Read a Poem and Fall in Love with Poetry. You can at least take a look at it via Google books by clicking here (http://books.google.com/books?id=OWeF-QSLL9wC&dq=how+to+read+a+poem&printsec=frontcover&source=bn&hl=en#PPP1,M1).

Probably the best way to learn to read poetry is just to read it. Try a poem a day, read aloud. Some days you will be moved, others you will scratch your head, still others you will laugh yourself silly (either by the poem itself or the feeble attempt at reading it!) Poetry requires that first step of just trying it on for size.

Good luck,
Jane

[Kareni]

... Hirsch's book, How to Read a Poem and Fall in Love with Poetry.

Thanks for the title, Jane. It looks intriguing, so I've put a hold on it at my library.

Regards,
Kareni

[Lori D.]

The Well Educated Mind -- gives you a good idea of *how* to read / think about The Great Books, plus a great list of ideas of what classic works you might want to read, each with summaries.

Invitation to the Classics -- gives you some background on classic authors, works and their times; I find it very helpful for getting a general feel for what to be thinking about going in to reading The Great Books.



Also, if you can't get your daughter or someone locally to discuss with you, post your thoughts and questions here on the high school board. I've learned a LOT from other people's responses to The Great Works. Below are two past threads to show you what I mean. BEST of luck -- and enjoy your literature journey! Warmest regards, Lori D.


Sir Gawain & The Green Knight: Input, Please
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/forums/showthread.php?t=66792&highlight=sir+gawain


Jane Eyre and boys
http://www.welltrainedmind.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27211&highlight=jane+eyre

[Janice in NJ]

A follow-up to Jane Eyre...

My daughter finished the book last week. My son is finishing it this week. Our discussion will follow....

So far my daughter commented, "Good book. I liked it." Ds was complaining at first, but came to me after Rochester's bedroom caught fire and said, "Finally. This might get good" as he wandered off with his sarcastic boo-ha-ha-ha laughter. :001_smile: He's wading through the slow section; I suspect that chocolate will be needed. :001_smile:

I've just let them read it straight through. No notes. No questions. No discussion yet. I purchased a copy for each and handed them the book and a pencil. I'll let you know how the end-o-the-book rap session goes. :001_smile:

Fingers crossed. :001_smile:

Peace,
Janice

Enjoy your little people
Enjoy your journey