Essential Works of Literature for US High School Students

Choosing the right works of literature to include in the high school curriculum can be a daunting task. While classic novels are undoubtedly important, there are significant challenges in integrating such lengthy works into a 50-minute class period. Instead, short stories can be more effective and engaging, while still providing valuable lessons and experiences for students.

Selecting the Right Texts

Short stories have always been a preferred choice for many educators. For instance, public school students from my own generation have enjoyed the works of O'Henry, Poe, and Conan Doyle. Even more impactful are stories like The Lottery by Shirley Jackson, which provoke thought and discussion. Teaching short stories enables teachers to introduce a wider range of material to students, enhancing their literary understanding and appreciation.

Adaptations vs. Originals

The language used in classic works, such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, can sometimes be challenging for students. It can be beneficial to use adaptations, especially for younger learners. For example, an adaptation of the Odyssey called The One-Eyed Giant is more accessible to fourth-graders, making the content more engaging and relevant.

Vital Short Stories for High School

Here are a few essential short stories that I believe are highly digestible by adolescents:

12 Angry Men by Reginald Rose

Although 12 Angry Men is a play, its impact is profound. The play takes place in a hot room in a courthouse, where 12 jurors deliberate on the guilt of a young man accused of murdering his father. The 8th juror stands for his beliefs, demonstrating patience and understanding. This story is invaluable to young people as it teaches them to question their beliefs critically and to respect themselves and their opponents when they are wrong. It promotes critical thinking and individualism, urging students to seek reasons for their beliefs rather than blindly following others.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby is a timeless classic told from the perspective of Nick Carraway, an outsider observing the lives of the novel's characters. The symbolism in the book, particularly the Eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg, which represent God or conscience, is powerful. This story illustrates that unjust actions will be punished by one's own conscience if they are not detected by others. This message is especially relevant for those who may not be influenced by conventional morality or religion, providing a practical reason to act ethically.

Anthem by Ayn Rand

Anthem presents a dystopian society where individualism is suppressed. The story follows a man's journey to escape the oppressive society with his lover. It is an excellent love story and a powerful exploration of individualism. While some may find Ayn Rand's works controversial, Anthem stands out. It is a pure distillation of Rand's core ideas about liberty and love, promoting self-autonomy and personal freedom. It offers a clear, engaging narrative that resonates with young readers.

Conclusion

By focusing on adaptations and shorter works, we can make literature more accessible, engaging, and relevant to today's high school students. These stories provide profound lessons and experiences that can shape young minds and foster a love for literature. As educators, we have the opportunity to choose texts that not only challenge but also inspire our students.