You are embarking on a research project that will explore the darker side of human nature. You will play the part of a psychological detective and analyze a criminal from the 19th Century. You will argue whether your subject was genetically predisposed to commit his crimes or was made into a killer through environment. You will begin your journey by choosing a subject.
Next, you will write a short biography of that person. Be sure to include important data such as date of birth, date of death, town of residence, major "accomplishments," life traumas, economic resources, and immediate family. Also look for abuse or traumas that would have shaped this person's personality. Could his upbringing have had an impact on his pathology?
Then, You will analyze your subject's personality type and write a one page personality profile. You will cite your subject's actions and use these as a basis for their personality assessment. You must use one of the tests designated for you.
Next, you will analyze the political and economic state of the country during your subject's lifetime. You must list at least three major events that were occurring of national importance during that time period and discuss their impact on your subject. What events had a direct or indirect effect on his/her psyche and/or crimes? You will do the same for the city and state your subject was living in.
The final step of your research project is a three act screenplay based on one event in your subject's life. Your play must be entertaining as well as factual and based on your research.The setting, characterization, and plot must be in keeping with the psychological profile of your murderer. All plays will be videotaped and presented to the class. |
