Sonjata
Several aphorisms in Sonjata praise the hero for his generosity. Give two textual examples of such generosity, and explain why it would be so central in the particular culture that sees him as
heroic.
What qualities must a hero have, per Sonjata?
What is the role of women in the world of Sonjata? Offer specific textual examples.
Our textbook opts not to translate certain central words in Sonjata, particularly “naamu” and “dalilu.” What is the significance of these words, and what is the logic and/or effect of not
translating them? (Note that each may need a separate explanation).
What is the significance of the naamu-sayer to Sonjata, and what light does his presence shed on the nature of an oral text (particularly one transcribed rather than composed into written form as
was The Odyssey or Gilgamesh)?

Popol Vuh
In the Popol Vuh, we see several failed creations before humans are finally produced. Discuss two of those failures: what was the creation, why did it fail, what else do we learn about the culture
and its values by the specific failure produced?
Why is “self-magnification” a sin in the Popol Vuh? What cultural values does that concern reflect?
What is the nature of heroism for the Maya? In what ways does it differ from other cultures’ assumptions?
The Popol Vuh reached written form as much as 50 years after the Spanish conquered the region. Discuss a feature of the Popol Vuh that shows clear influence by the Spanish presence, and one element
that may or may not show such influence.

Hamlet
In Hamlet, discuss the various explanations for Hamlet’s visit to Ophelia’s “closet,” taking into account the different interpretations possible if we see him as crazy or not crazy, in love or not
in love with Ophelia.
Why does Hamlet choose not to kill Claudius while he is praying? What shifting perception of vengeance does this decision represent, compared to earlier heroes called upon to avenge their honor?
How do we see the belief systems in Hamlet shifting? Discuss one instance each of a residual, a dominant, and an emergent belief that impacts the actions within the play.
What are the arguments for and against seeing [Hamlet/Laertes/Fortinbras] as a hero? How does this figure suggest the shifting values of the heroic for Shakespeare’s audience?