In this unit, you will read a funny story by James Thurber called "The Catbird Seat." He uses lots of funny slang and metaphor that you will be required to analyze in the question section.
About the Author
James Thurber (1894-1961) was a writer and a cartoonist. He attended Ohio State University, and left without getting his degree. In 1927 he joined the new staff of The New Yorker as a managing editor and staff writer. His drawings and short stories were printed frequently. He was good friends with E.B. White, co-authoring a book with him in 1929.
Let's Read
You are going to read "The Catbird Seat." It is a funny story about a man who works in an office. He is very organized and precise, so he does not like the new office manager. He decides he wants to kill her, or "rub her out."
Make a note of the slang used in this story. If you do not know what a phrase means, write the phrase down in your binder. You will be required to analyze Thurber's use of slang in the question section.
Remember: You are responsible for all of the highlighted vocabulary words! Now would be a good time to use your binder. If you would prefer to print out the story, you may do so:The Catbird Seat.
Activity
You are now halfway through this semester course. It would be a good time for you to organize your notes to prepare yourself for the final exam. Print out and keep this essay rubric so that you can prepare for the final exam with it. Remember, you will be required to turn in a final essay. Final Exam Essay Rubric.
Review questions: Identification. Let's see what you remember!
Below are additional educational resources and activities for this unit.
