But what does it mean?
Themes & Symbols
For your consideration, consider the names in the novel...
How do these names compare with names found in The Scarlet Letter?
Now, let's talk symbols...
Are there any similar symbols in The Scarlet Letter?
Finally, themes...
Would you say the themes in Speak are similar to those found in The Scarlet Letter? Why or why not?
- Does "Sordino" have anything to do with sordid?
- Is Mr. Freeman's name a big, sweeping metaphor for his help in emancipating Melinda?
- Why did Rachel change her name?
- What about "The Marthas?"
How do these names compare with names found in The Scarlet Letter?
Now, let's talk symbols...
- Of course, there's the big obvious one - the tree, but consider how that tree came about. Melinda pulled her tiny piece of paper from a broken globe. What do you think that means?
- Is there any significance to the paper being from trees in the first place?
- What does Heather represent in the novel? Did you like her or did she get on your nerves a little? Be honest.
- What was with that closet? Does that mean Melinda wants to be a janitor? Well, kind of, as janitors slink about the school sometimes, unfortunately, unnoticed for the good they do, but what else does the janitor's closet represent?
Are there any similar symbols in The Scarlet Letter?
Finally, themes...
- I think the theme of the novel is to speak out, to be courageous enough to recognize when something is wrong and to recognize that behavior in others. What would you do to expand upon that?
- Is there another theme I missed? What about the message it sends to bullies? Gossip? Does the novel have a message for parents? What about teachers and administrators?
Would you say the themes in Speak are similar to those found in The Scarlet Letter? Why or why not?