A) In an essay, carefully consider what you think are two of the most important messages/lessons Morrie has to communicate about life. Your �jumping off� point might be a two particular passages in the book, or simply two of Morrie�s aphorisms (sayings). First, explain in your own words what you think Morrie is trying to say. Then, explain why you think the lesson is so important and in what ways it is relevant/applicable to our lives. (4 pages minimum)
B) Add your own chapter to the book. Carefully consider an aspect of life which is important and is not discussed in the book. Make up your own Tuesday with Morrie, making sure to give both Mitch and Morrie authentic voices in the interview (it should seem like your interview might fit right into the book). (4.5 pages minimum)
The Chosen
1) In an essay, discuss the values and beliefs of Reb. Saunders and Mr. Malter, and show how the novel dramatizes the affect these had on the development of Danny and Reuven. Then analyze your own parents' values and beliefs, exploring the way they have shaped, and are continuing to shape, your identity. (3.5 pages minimum�spend more time on the first part of the assignment)
2) In an essay, discuss the theme of silence which appears in the book, making sure to draw on key passages from the book concerning this theme. Make sure to give attention to the various reflections on the nature/value of silence which are a key element of the book. (3.5 pages minimum)
3) Reuven�s father says:
"You are no longer a child, Reuven, . . .It is almost possible to see the way your mind is growing. And your heart, too. . . .So listen to what I am going to tell you. . . .Human beings do not live forever, Reuven. We live less than the time it takes to blink an eye, if we measure our lives against eternity. So it may be asked what value is there to a human life. There is so much pain in the world. What does it mean to have to suffer so much if our lives are nothing more than the blink of an eye? . . .I learned a long time ago, Reuven, that a blink of an eye in itself is nothing. But the eye that blinks, that is something. A span of life is nothing. But the man who lives the span, he is something. He can fill that tiny span with meaning, so its quality is immeasurable though its quantity may be
insignificant. Do you understand what I am saying? A man must fill his life with meaning, meaning is not automatically given to life. It is hard work to fill one's life with meaning. That I do not think you understand yet. A life filled with meaning is worthy of rest. I want to be worthy of rest when I am no longer here. Do you understand what I am saying?"
You are to continue this conversation (either as Reuven or you, you choose), making sure you tackle the issue Mr. Malter brings up. Your final product will be written as dialogue, with Mr. Malter continuing to have a part in the conversation (how large of a part he has is up to you). (5 pages minimum)
4) Watch the movie The Chosen and write a focused essay on the major strengths and weaknesses of the film compared to the book. You will probably want to watch the movie twice, once without taking notes and then a second time taking notes. You must turn in notes on the movie with your essay. (4.5 pages minimum)