1. You have read the poems "Mending Wall" and "Any Human to Another." Although the poems were written at different times in American history, they share some thematic elements. What do they have in common? State the theme of each poem in a complete sentence. Then briefly explain how they share some aspects of that theme.
2. What is the primary imagery in "The Snow-Storm" by Ralph Waldo Emerson? How does that imagery help convey the theme of the poem?
3. Identity and freedom are important ideas presented in many of the poems from the Harlem Renaissance. What image of freedom have you found most powerful in the poems you have read so far? (Choose one from "I,Too and Dream Variations" "We wear the mask" "Sympathy" "Life is Fine" "The Weary Blues") The values of identity and freedom are not unique to particular times and places. As Hughes expresses in "Dream Variations," all humans want to be able to develop their identities in freedom. What is required of a society to enable each individual to be true to his or her identity and be free to live by that identity?
4. Think about what you have seen of the Stage Manager thus far. Think about the effect his presence has on the audience. Does the Stage Manager help or hinder your understanding of the characters and action? In particular, does the Stage Manager interfere with your ability to empathize with the characters? Explain how his presence affects your ability to know and understand the characters of Grover's Corners.