Alexander+Pope

=**The Rape of the Lock—Alexander Pope**=


 * Directions:** Each group should craft an articulate and comprehensive response (at least 75 words) to one of the following questions. Groups 1 and 7 will answer question #1; Groups 2 and 8 will answer question #2; Groups 3 and 9 will answer question #3; Groups 4 and 10 will answer #4; Group 5 will answer # 5; Group 6 will answer #6. Cite Canto and line numbers when responding to these questions. This assignment is worth 20 points.

1. Most epics inculcate the cultural values of a society. Since The Rape of the Lock is a mock epic, Pope intends to satirize the values of his society. What “values” does Pope choose to skewer? Find five examples from the text to support your answer.

2. Pope adheres to the conventions of an epic. Which conventions does he use? How does he use of these conventions to a satiric end? Provide specific examples from the text.

3. The Age of Reason values order, symmetry, and balance. In what way does the style of The Rape of the Lock model Age of Reason values? Use specific examples from the text.

4. Which character best portrays Pope’s personal views on English society? How do you know? Use specific examples from the text.

5. Which character in //Rape of the Lock// best embodies an "enlightened" viewpoint--one that emphasizes reason, logic, and order? Explain why with specific details from the text.

6. Answer one of the following: a. What did Pope's coevals think of his poem? b. What is the purpose of the letter that introduces the poem? What do you think this letter accomplished?