1. Reading "Winter Months" from South by Ernest Shackleton
Literary Analysis Skills
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2. Voice
In literature, voice is defined as the basic vision of the writer, his or her general attitude toward the world.
After you read chapter 3, "Winter Months," from South, think about Shackleton's vision and attitude toward the world. We know from our background study that he was an ambitious, determined explorer. Does that come through in his book? From his writing, what can you determine about his feelings toward the great struggles he and his crew faced? Do you think his voice as a writer was a true reflection of what he thought and felt as he worked to keep his crew alive?
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3. Analyzing Events in a Text
Identifying and discussing key events in a text, either verbally or in writing, is a necessary skill. You should always be able to justify your ideas by citing specific events from the text as evidence.
As you read "Winter Months," asking yourself these questions will help you analyze its key events.
What are my first impressions of what I'm reading?
Why is this event important to the story?
What role does setting play in "Winter Months"? How would the story change if it occurred elsewhere?
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4. Determining a Central Theme
Identifying a theme in a text can be challenging. The terms theme and topic are often used interchangeably, which often results in confusion.
Here is another way to think about theme: It is THE MEssage. As you read "Winter Months," what message is Ernest Shackleton trying to convey? Why did he want to share his story? You may have no interest in exploring Antarctica, but did you encounter any ideas or lessons you could apply to your own life? If so, you have a good example of theme.
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