Case Study: British Romantic Era

University of the People

EDUC 5281-01 - Advanced Practices SEC Literature

AY2023-T4

Dr. Stephanie Cannon

June 29, 2023

 Case Study

In the scenario presented, Mr. Stevens, a twelfth-grade English teacher, is preparing to

teach a unit on British Romantic Literature to his class of twenty students with varying levels of

academic readiness. While the class textbook includes several poems that will be covered, Mr.

Stevens wants to enhance student interest and diversify the reading material. Therefore, he seeks

to find at least two supplementary texts to complement the core curriculum.

Since his goal is is to build interest, background knowledge, and vocabulary it makes

sense to identify horizontal texts. Horizontal texts help students understand different perspectives

on a topic of aspects of knowledge about a topic. (Schoenbach, et al., 2012) Vertical texts hope to

teach all of the abilities levels in a classroom the same content at their level while horizontal

texts try to explore a topic from many angles. (Schoenbach, et al., 2012) While I intend to select

two horizontal texts I am intentionally selecting texts that would also offer a readily available

vertical text companion. This would allow students who have difficult understanding the texts to

front load content by listening to, reading, or watching other versions of the books to lay a

foundational understanding of the chosen horizontal texts.

Frankenstein

The first text Mr. Stevens should select is "Frankenstein" because it is a seminal work of

the Romantic period and represents many of the key themes and concerns of the movement but it

is still feels accessible because of its common references in pop culture. It explores the

individual's struggle against societal norms, a tremendously relevant topic for high schools

students. Another theme is the pursuit of knowledge and scientific exploration and the

consequences of unchecked ambition, also incredibly important for seniors who are about to

enter the world of adulthood and form their own opinions on these things. By reading
"Frankenstein," students can not only gain a deeper understanding of the ideas and ideals that

influenced the Romantic writers but they will be challenged to wrestle with their own opinions

on complex subjects.

"Frankenstein" has had a lasting impact on literature and popular culture, inspiring

countless adaptations, interpretations, and retellings across various art forms. "Frankenstein"

delves into some themes that are common to the Romantic era such as the human condition and

the ethical implications of scientific progress. It also offers insights into the cultural and

historical context of the Romantic period while showcasing signature literary techniques like

vivid imagery.

Wuthering Heights

The next text Mr. Stevens should select "Wuthering Heights" and its nuanced portrayal of

love and desires. Many high schoolers are facing complex emotions, passions, and mental health

issues and it explores the depths of human emotions and the darker aspects of human nature. It

also challenges conventional ideas of romance and presents complex characters driven by their

passions, a nice juxtaposition to the media most high schoolers are consuming. One of the main

ways it does this it through its critique of social conventions and hierarchies prevalent in

Victorian society. (Díaz, 2022) "Wuthering Heights" portrays the destructive effects of societal

norms and expectations on individuals, particularly through the character of Heathcliff. Bronte

displays the Romantic movement's emphasis on individualism and the rejection of societal norms

and resonating strongly with many modern teenagers.

Conclusion

If Mr. Stevens selects these two texts he will offer very different options likely to engage

a variety of students and give them new perspectives on the British Romantic Era. These
horizontal texts also have many editions which would allow students to find and utilize a vertical

text if necessary to help meet all of the ability levels present in the classroom.
References

Díaz, A. (2022, September 11). Wuthering Heights: The Romanticism of the Beastly

Bridegroom. Arcadia. Retrieved June 24, 2023, from

https://www.byarcadia.org/post/wuthering-heights-the-romanticism-of-the-beastly-bridegroom

Riley, K. (n.d.). Historical Context of Romanticism. A Closer Look at Traditional Fairy

Tales and Modern Adaptations: A Lamar University Critical Edition. Retrieved June 24, 2023,

from https://fairytalescriticaleditionlu.weebly.com/historical-context-of-romanticism.html

Schoenbach, R. Greenleaf, C. Murphy, L., Cziko, C. & Hurwitz, L. (2012). Reading for

understanding: How reading apprenticeship improves disciplinary learning in secondary and

college classrooms. Retrieved from eBook Central (accessed through LIRN).