The Real Life of Sebastian Knight Lesson Plan

Exploring Symbolism

Kind of Activity:

Group Work

Objective:

Students will explore Nabokov's use of symbolism early in the novel.

Structure:

Begin by dividing the class into small groups. On the whiteboard, create a list of potential symbols mentioned in the text (e.g., violets, the black chess knight, Sebastian's English mother). Ask each group to identify and discuss instances of these symbols in the text. Use the following scaffolding questions to help guide student thought:

- What do you think violets symbolize in the novel, especially in the context of Sebastian's secret drawer?
- What might the black chess knight represent, given its recurring appearance in...