As high school English teachers, we’re always on the lookout for engaging texts that capture our students’ imaginations while teaching essential literary concepts. Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Oval Portrait” is a perfect fit for this purpose. This Gothic short story not only immerses students in a dark, mysterious atmosphere but also offers rich opportunities for literary analysis and creative expression.
Introducing Gothic Literature
Gothic literature is a genre that combines elements of horror, romance, and mystery. Introducing students to this genre can be an exciting way to set the stage for reading “The Oval Portrait.” This can be a great way to hook their interest and prepare them for the eerie journey ahead.
Start with the history of Gothic literature before reviewing the elements of this sub-genre.
Mastering Vocabulary through Context
“That’s not English!” “Who talks like that?” “What’s he saying?” Raise your hand if you’ve heard those (or some variation) while teaching Poe.
While Poe’s themes may be timeless, his language is not. One of the challenges students may face while reading “The Oval Portrait” is the archaic vocabulary. Using context clues to infer meanings is not only a Common Core standard (link to CCSS?) but a vital skill for life both in and out of the classroom.
I like to start almost all of my short story lessons with vocabulary. Front-loading some of the more difficult words removes one of the barriers to comprehension and helps students focus on the deeper meanings of the text. Discussing vocabulary in context also allows students to see how word choice contributes to the story’s overall mood and tone.
Chunk Information with Embedded Questions
Although “The Oval Portrait” is one of Poe’s shorter works, there’s still a lot going on. Often times students rush through the text and then forget absolutely everything when they get to the post-reading questions.
A solution? Embedded questions. By providing questions alongside the text, you can guide students through their analysis, keeping them engaged and making sure they grasp key elements such as plot, character development, and themes.
I like to alternate my method for using embedded questions depending on the class and text. Sometimes I stop after every page or so and discuss/complete the embedded questions; other times I do a first read focused purely on basic comprehension and the go back and hit the embedded questions.
Incorporate different media
We all know that most of today’s students are more visual. They’re used to consuming content in short bursts, like Instagram or TikTok reels.
Incorporating different media can bring “The Oval Portrait” to life for today’s visually-oriented students. Find several different short film versions of Poe’s story and have students compare and contrast the films with the text.
This activity is low prep but can reap high rewards. Not only are students comparing and contrasting (meaning that they need to demonstrate an understanding of the source material) but they’re also analyzing mood and author’s (or in the case of the films, director’s/producer’s) choices.
Comparative Analysis w/ Paired Texts
Pairing “The Oval Portrait” with another contemporaneous Gothic text, like Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Birthmark,” allows students to grapple with common themes. Both stories discuss the consequences of obsession with, and the dangers/consequences of, chasing perfection – an idea that resonates with students of all ages.
Compare and contrast the unnamed narrator and lady in “The Oval Portrait” with Aylmer and Georgiana in “The Birthmark,” noting the men’s obsessions and the women’s responses.
In addition to exposing students to a lesser taught Gothic short story, you’ll be opening up conversations about not only the quest for “perfection” but also the roles of men and women in this quest.
Encourage Creativity w/ Artistic Representations
For creative learners, an artistic representation of “The Oval Portrait” can be a refreshing alternative to traditional quizzes.
The portrait is a representation of/homage to the person the artist values most. Have students think of something or someone that they highly value. Brainstorm the qualities/characteristics of this person or thing that makes them worth immortalizing.
Once students have chosen their “muse”, they can create an artistic representation of the person or object. Offer choices such as drawing/painting, sculpting, or building.
This activity not only appeals to their creativity but also demonstrates their understanding of the text in a unique and personal way.
There you have it – ideas for freshening up your “The Oval Portrait” lesson.
Do you have any favorite “The Oval Portrait” activities? If so, hit “Reply” and let me know.
Looking for a no-prep, print and digital “The Oval Portrait” lesson? Click here to grab all of the activities mentioned above.
