The Wreck of the Zanzibar - Session 4 - Compare

In the fourth session focusing on "The Wreck of the Zanzibar," students delve into the character study of Laura, examining how her thoughts and feelings evolve over time. The task requires a close reading of her diary entries from two distinct periods, July and September, to identify the language that reflects changes in her emotional state. By comparing words and phrases from these entries, students gain insight into Laura's character development and the events that may have influenced her changing perspective.

The activity is designed to enhance the students' analytical skills, encouraging them to pay attention to detail and interpret the nuances of the text. The comparison exercise not only helps in understanding the protagonist more deeply but also serves as a practice in textual analysis—a key skill in literary studies. Students are expected to fill in their findings in a provided table, noting the contrasts in Laura's disposition between the two months, thereby engaging with the narrative on a more intimate level and exploring the subtleties of the character's journey.