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CURRENT EVENT | OCTOBER 29, 2013

T.S. Eliot and Modernism

Poetry Arts World War I

Thomas Stearns Eliot OM, better known as T.S. Eliot, was one of the great modernist poets of the 20th century. His work was part of a specific moment in history and art, before and after World War I, when identity, nations and art were fractured. Imagine the modernism of Picasso and Cubism and apply the same idea to poetry. Listen to learn more about the world in which Eliot wrote and why his poem “The Waste Land” remains one of the pillars of high modernism.

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Story Length: 6:21

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Listening Comprehension Questions

  • What was one of Malala Yousafzai’s first experiences with the dangers of religious extremism?
  • After miraculously surviving her attack, what has Malala focused her work on?
  • What is the message that Malala is trying to send to those in power?
  • What does Malala want to do in the future?
  • What are the goals of Malala’s mission to support girls?

Discussion Themes

  • What is your opinion on Malala’s message about the power of education?
  • Why do you think that ISIS might want to silence people like Malala?

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