Archetypes in Poetry

After discussing the origins and meanings of many archetypal symbols (such as water, snow, fog, the sea, the seasons, etc.), students made their first attempts to analyze a poem's use of archetypes.  The goal is to have students move beyond a surface reading of a text by looking for symbols that provide a deeper understanding.  This process requires close reading and purposeful annotation as students search not only for archetypes but for patterns as well.   This important work scaffolds students' thinking and helps them with the more difficult task of identifying a work's theme.  Take a look at some of their annotated poems; you'll see great minds at work!

Poem analyzed by Jacob K., Jacob A., Ryan L., and Nathan F.

Poem analyzed by Olivia, Hannah, and Elana O.

 

Poem analyzed by Orly, Lauren, and Haviva