Pale Fire Lesson Plan

What's In A Name?

Kind of Activity:

Research

Objective:

Students will research a historical figure referenced in the text and apply it to the novel itself.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.3

Structure:

In his commentary, Kinbote notes that the king of Zembla was known as "Charles the Beloved." Inform students that this was also the name of King Charles VI of France (1368-1422). In fact, Charles VI had two nicknames: "The Well-beloved" and "The Insane."

For this activity, students will begin by researching the life and times of Charles the VI and prepare a brief report on his exploits. This aspect of the activity is mainly to better familiarize...