A Dog’s Tale

Worksheet Description

This worksheet presents an engaging exploration of anthropomorphism through a passage from Mark Twain’s “A Dog’s Tale,” a story told from the perspective of a dog. It encourages students to analyze how Twain bestows human characteristics onto a canine narrator, allowing a deeper emotional connection with the reader. The first question prompts the learner to identify the protagonist, fostering a personal link to the narrative and enhancing comprehension of the story’s point of view. It’s a clear opening into the world of literary analysis, engaging students to step into the protagonist’s paws, so to speak.

Following this, the worksheet challenges students to consider the narrative perspective and to discern the human emotions conveyed through the anthropomorphic lens. By reflecting on the feelings described and implied, learners can develop an understanding of how emotions are used to create empathy and build character depth, even in non-human figures. The final question on the worksheet invites students to ponder the unique outcomes that anthropomorphism brings to storytelling, such as creating relatability and interest. This critical thinking exercise encourages students to consider the power of literary devices and their effect on narrative technique and storytelling efficacy.