Exploring Identity and Gender in Middlesex

Exploring Identity and Gender in Middlesex

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will have a deeper understanding of the themes and characters in Middlesex.

What do you already know about the novel Middlesex?

Introduction to Middlesex

Middlesex is a novel by Jeffrey Eugenides, exploring the life of Calliope/Cal, who is intersex, and their struggle with identity and gender.

Author Background

Jeffrey Eugenides is an American writer known for his exploration of complex themes such as identity and family dynamics.

Character Analysis

Explore the characters of Calliope/Cal and their journey of self-discovery, examining the impact of family and societal expectations.

Themes in Middlesex

Discuss the themes of identity, gender, and the search for belonging in a multicultural society.

Narrative Structure

Examine the narrative structure of Middlesex, including the use of intergenerational storytelling and its impact on the reader's understanding.

Literary Devices

Explore the use of literary devices such as symbolism, foreshadowing, and imagery in the novel, and their contribution to the overall narrative.

Discussion and Reflection

Engage in a class discussion about the novel, encouraging students to share their thoughts, questions, and reflections on the themes and characters.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.