Connecting "The Eagle" by Alfred Lord Tennyson to the American flag is a great idea to create a deeper connection and engagement with your poem. Although "The Eagle" does not directly mention the American flag or the United States, you can still draw a connection between the two. Here's how:
1. Start by introducing the poem: Share some information about Alfred Lord Tennyson and give a brief overview of "The Eagle" before reading it aloud to the class. Allow the students to listen and absorb the poem.
2. Play a patriotic song: After reading the poem, you can create a connection by playing a patriotic song, such as "The Star-Spangled Banner" or "America the Beautiful." Explain to the students that this song connects to the poem in a symbolic way.
3. Analyze the connection: Lead a class discussion to allow students to guess why you connected the poem to the American flag or the patriotic song. Encourage them to share their interpretations and insights.
4. Explain the connection: Once the students have shared their thoughts, highlight the symbolism and deeper meanings that connect the poem to the American flag or the patriotic song. For example, you can point out that the eagle symbolizes strength, freedom, and resilience, which are qualities often associated with the American spirit represented by the flag.
5. Discuss the message: Encourage the class to explore how the themes and mood of the poem relate to the ideals and values of the United States. Discuss how the eagle's solitary and majestic nature in the poem represents individualism and independence, which are significant aspects of American culture.
Remember, the key is to encourage students to think critically and make connections between the poem and the American flag or patriotic songs. By explicitly explaining the connection and engaging in a class discussion, you can help students develop a deeper understanding of both the poem and its potential connection to the world around them.