Meridian Lesson Plan

Why does the novel open with multiple definitions of the word "meridian"? Which definition do you think is most connected to the novel and/or the main character? Why?

Meridian is the novel's eponymous main character's names. It is not a commonly used first name, so Walker may have been attempting to demonstrate her reasoning behind the name—or maybe it was an attempt to foreshadow that the character would live up to these multiple definitions. Students should discuss which definition they feel will be most connected to the novel or its titular character, with an explanation of their reasoning.

Examples include:

• 2a. While Meridian may not be at her highest point in...