To students taking AP English Literature and Composition:

Welcome to AP English Literature and Composition. This course is designed to prepare you for literature courses you will be required to take at the college level as well as challenge you to read compelling works of historical and contemporary importance. I have selected two works for you to read over the summer, both dramatic works--with numerous film and stage versions available on a multitude of streaming services; the works are William Shakespeare's Macbeth and Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman. I ask that you read both works and write down as many questions about the material you feel compelled to ask (questions may be about the "meaning" of the content, but may also point to larger issues that the texts raise). Though I don't like putting a single figure on the number of questions you're required to ask, I can't imagine that you could walk away from either text without at least ten questions for each one, likely considerably more. That is the only written work I'm asking you to do prior to the beginning of the school year. However, the work that we engage in the first few weeks of school will center on both works, so it is imperative that you read them prior to the beginning of the school year. You may get a copy of each work from me, Mr. Gallagher, between now and the end of the school year. After that point, you may have to buy copies or check them out from a library. Enjoy your summer and email me (agallagher@ucityschools.org) if you have any questions or concerns.

Best,

Mr. Gallagher