Rashomon Lesson Plan

Discussion: Religion in Akutagawa's stories

Kind of Activity:

Classwide Discussion

Objective:

To discuss the role of religion in Akutagawa’s stories, as well as Akutagawa’s own religious views

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1

Structure:

1. Several of Akutagawa’s stories reference religion or religious figures, most of all “The Martyr.” Ask students to discuss how religion is portrayed in “The Martyr.” How are religious figures like Simeon and Father Superior portrayed?

2. Then, ask students to discuss how religion and religious figures are portrayed in “The Dragon.” Is it portrayed differently or similarly?

3. Finally, divide students into small groups of...