A Primary Postmodern Posting on Presidential Politics [JAB]

January 19, 2008 by 4 Comments

Although supposedly buried in reams of notes and revisions of his forthcoming book, the Professor surfaced long enough to forward these musings upon a literary evaluation of the current political scene as inspired by an article called Sex, Race and Gen Y Voters by Rosa Brooks as published in the LA Times.

To read the article, click here.

After reflecting on the article, Professor John forwarded the following commentary speculating on how the current postmodern trend in American philosophy has extended itself even into our electoral process:

Just a simple post about the Democratic race shaping up about who is more politically correct, the cool black friend everyone wants (Jackie Robinson with no Duke Snyder…) or the steely eyed woman of purpose breaking through the ultimate glass ceiling, for the prize of winning the Presidency for the Political periphery and disenfranchised. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Hog Pro Notes

Goblet of Fire: The Death Eaters & Priori Incantatem (Chapters 33 & 34)[JAB]

January 18, 2008 by 1 Comment

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: Chapters 33-34

Mark True statements with a “T” and False statements with an “F.” Write your answers to the discussion points in the com boxes below.
1._____ The resurrected Voldemort restores Pettigrew’s right arm with a magical silver hand. He then calls the Death Eaters by touching the Dark Mark tattoo on Wormtail’s left inner arm. “How many will be brave enough to return?”

2._____ Voldemort’s “true family returns,” fall to their knees, and kiss the hem of his robes. The Dark Lord does not forgive or forget. “I want thirteen years’ repayment before I forgive you.” The Death Eaters thank him for his mercy. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Chapter Quiz

News Flash! JKR comes to Harvard to Give Commencement Address

January 18, 2008 by 12 Comments

The Harvard Crimson reports:

Harry Potter never returned to Hogwarts for his seventh and final year, so J. K. Rowling never got to write a graduation speech for her magical protagonist.

The author of the mega-bestseller “Harry Potter” series will get a chance to make up for that in June, when she delivers the keynote address at Harvard’s Commencement exercises, the University announced Thursday morning.

“Perhaps no one in our time has done more than J. K. Rowling to inspire young people to experience the excitement and the sheer joy of reading,” said University President Drew G. Faust in the statement.

I assume Yale tried to get her to come to New Haven but that Harold Bloom might have expired if she had accepted. Harvard is much more Harry friendly…

Filed Under: Hog Pro Notes

Goblet of Fire: The Third Task & Flesh, Blood, and Bone (Chapters 31 & 32)[JAB]

January 17, 2008 by 1 Comment

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire: Chapters 31-32

Mark True statements with a “T” and False statements with an “F.” Write your answers to the discussion points in the com boxes below.

1._____ Harry prepares for the Third Task in empty classrooms by working with Ron and Hermione on Stunning Spells, the Impediment Curse, the Reductor Curse, the Shield Charm, and the Four-Point Spell. Harry feels he is ready.

2._____ Rita Skeeter gets in a last minute stab at Harry in the Daily Prophet by writing the article “Harry Potter: Disturbed and Dangerous” that appears the day of the Third Task. Harry bristles at her saying he might be a Dark Wizard. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Chapter Quiz

Warning! Master Overwhelmed, Leaves Apprentice at the Helm! [JAB]

January 17, 2008 by 6 Comments

In an event perhaps unparalleled in the history of this site, Professor John got overloaded. He is currently pushing all out to meet his publishing deadlines, speaking commitments, work and family responsibilities. Leaving zero time for HogPro duty.

In desperation, he has asked one of his less gifted students to monitor the classroom for a few weeks while he fends off all the other dragons. Therefore, for about the next three weeks, you will see posts coming out with the annotation [JAB] on the end of them. That stands for Moi! JohnABaptist. Hopefully I will not drive off all of the other students before the real Professor returns.

Seeking your pardon in advance for all errors, egregious or subtle, that are certain to follow: Here we go again with a restart of the beloved Chapter Quiz series!

Filed Under: Chapter Quiz