Foreshadowing in literature is hints given by the author of what will happen later. To demonstrate mastery of foreshadowing in literature, students must achieve five levels of understanding:

1. They must be able to define foreshadowing – Level 1 is simple memorization. It is possible for students (or even a really smart monkey) to recite the definition without understanding it.
2. Students should be able to identify foreshadowing – Level 2 eliminates the monkey. It shows the ability to apply the definition in a literary setting. Any high school student can do this with a bit of practice. Identification, however, falls short of mastery.
3. Students should be able to substantiate predictions based on the author’s clues. Level 3 is really close to mastery. It requires high level thinking, even if the predictions are wrong. It falls short of mastery insomuch that the skill is only relevant as it pertains to a specific story
4. Students should be able to determine the author’s purpose in using the foreshadowing – Level 4 indicates mastery of foreshadowing in literature. The ability to analyze author’s purpose facilitates critical thinking and will help individuals make sense of advertising, political speeches, editorials, and news reports. In short, knowing what the author’s purpose is will help them make informed decisions.
5. Students should be able to use foreshadowing in their own writing for a specific purpose – Level 5 is difficult to measure.  Few students reach this mark and is a highly advanced skill.

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“Masque of the Red Death” is one of those stories that became more relevant around March of 2020 with the Covid-19 pandemic. Plagues and pandemics have not only been a part of human history, but in many cases they have changed history. We are fortunate today that we have communication and medical capabilities that limit the effect of pandemics and disease. So despite the disruption to our lives and the personal tragedies some of my listeners may have faced due to Covid-19, I think it’s ok to look forward with optimism and faith. In the end, however, we control our thoughts and we can choose to look forward with faith or dwell on the negatives of the last couple years. 

How might looking forward with faith and gratitude make a difference in your life?

Links

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Caesar has ample information to ascertain there is a viable threat against his life, so why does he not heed these warnings?

It’s because of pride. He thinks he’s untouchable. He thinks that his decrees carry the force of god.

How are we like Caesar? Do we listen those who are “beneath” us or do we think we’re too good to listen to the advice of our students, our colleagues, and others? If so, we may be setting ourselves up for a huge downfall, hopefully nobody’s going to stab you, but we may be setting ourselves up for a metaphorical stab in the back.

Takeaways

1. Julius Caesar shows why humility might be the best way to avoid a gigantic fall.
2. “Beware the Ides of March” is probably the most famous warning in literature.
3. What warnings are you ignoring in your classroom or personal life?

Resources

• Julius Caesar Blog Post at ELACommonCoreLessonPlans.com
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