Title: Exploring the Poem “Heraklieon”

Grade Level: 9th-12th grade

Objective: - Analyze and interpret the poem “Heraklieon” by engaging in close reading strategies - Identify and discuss the themes, symbols, and literary devices used in the poem - Develop critical thinking skills by comparing and contrasting the poem with other works of literature - Create original written responses to the poem, demonstrating understanding and personal interpretation

Materials: - Copies of the poem “Heraklieon” by Eleni Fourtouni - Whiteboard or chart paper - Markers - Handout with guiding questions - Writing materials

Procedure:

1. Introduction (10 minutes) a. Begin the lesson by asking students if they are familiar with the poem “Heraklieon” by Eleni Fourtouni. If any students are familiar with the poem, encourage them to share their thoughts and interpretations. b. Explain that today’s lesson will focus on analyzing and interpreting the poem, exploring its themes, symbols, and literary devices.

2. Close Reading (20 minutes) a. Distribute copies of the poem “Heraklieon” to each student. b. Instruct students to read the poem silently to themselves. c. Ask students to identify any unfamiliar words or phrases and discuss their meanings as a class. d. Engage in a close reading of the poem, encouraging students to annotate and highlight key phrases or lines that stand out to them. e. Facilitate a class discussion, guiding students to analyze the poem’s structure, tone, and imagery.

3. Themes and Symbols (15 minutes) a. Write the words “Themes” and “Symbols” on the whiteboard or chart paper. b. Ask students to brainstorm and share their ideas about the themes and symbols present in the poem. c. Record their responses on the whiteboard or chart paper, encouraging discussion and elaboration on each point.

4. Literary Devices (15 minutes) a. Write the words “Literary Devices” on the whiteboard or chart paper. b. Provide a brief explanation of common literary devices such as metaphor, simile, personification, and imagery. c. Instruct students to identify and discuss any literary devices they find in the poem. d. Record their responses on the whiteboard or chart paper, encouraging discussion and analysis of each device.

5. Comparisons (15 minutes) a. Introduce a related work of literature, such as a poem or short story, that explores similar themes or uses similar literary devices. b. Facilitate a class discussion comparing and contrasting the poem “Heraklieon” with the chosen work of literature. c. Encourage students to consider how the different authors approach similar themes or use similar literary devices.

6. Personal Response (15 minutes) a. Distribute a handout with guiding questions related to the poem. b. Instruct students to individually respond to the questions, using evidence from the poem to support their answers. c. Allow students to share their responses with a partner or in small groups, fostering discussion and reflection.

7. Conclusion (5 minutes) a. Recap the main themes, symbols, and literary devices discussed during the lesson. b. Encourage students to continue exploring and analyzing poetry in their own time. c. Thank the students for their participation and conclude the lesson.

Note: The time allocated for each section of the lesson plan can be adjusted based on the needs and pace of the class.