The God of Small Things Lesson Plan

Kathakali Masks

Kind of Activity:

Artistic Response

Objective:

Students will interact with an art form described in the novel and create artistic representations of characters.

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.7

Structure:

In chapter 12, Kochu Thomban, Rahel and Estha view a performance of Kathakali dance, which tells the story of several Hindu myths. Kathakali is notable for its use of colorful, almost cartoonish costumes. While performers traditionally wear makeup and facepaint, admirers of the artform often create masks inspired by these colorful designs. As a class, explore images of Kathakali makeup and masks on the internet. There are many...