Personal reaction to the course

I’d have liked to do something different than group presentations every single class. I was able to confirm that most people came to class ready to discuss the stories assigned every week but we did not have the opportunity to do so in the majority of the lessons. 

I can say that I read all the stories and that I would have loved to listen to my classmates' points of views and review the symbolism and motifs of each story. 

Fifteen weeks later, I leave this course having read five great stories but left with a hole in my chest for not being able to analyze them more as well their respective authors.

Of Mice and Men

Why do I recommend the book Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck?
Because it is a classic! This is a short book written in the 1930s that covers themes that are still relevant in our society. George and Lennie's relationship and the harsh world were they exist, connects the reader with the story. 

Hills like White Elephants

This was my favorite piece of literature, I enjoy reading Ernest Hemingway’s stories. I was able to transport myself to the train station and bar; and feel the frustration on the way the main characters talked to each other. When I finished the story the first time I read it, I felt so weird as I couldn’t believe they’re talking about an abortion the whole time so I had to read it a second time.  

The Story of an Hour

A nice story that can show how we should never take someone from granted. We all have dreams and goals; regardless of our marital status. This story shows how someone can love but feel trapped by that same love. 

The Lottery

It is well known that nothing good can come from following traditions that no longer bring (or never brought) a benefit. To blindly accept something just for the sake of it, just because it has been passed down from generation to generation can only show the false-consensus effect. 

A Rose for Emily

I thought this was a very sad story. Emily did not know how to love and her choices showed that she did not want to be alone either. 

The Cask of Amontillado

I loved the suspense of this story. I knew since the beginning that Montresor will look for a way to harm Fortunato but I never thought it was going to be with something so wicked.