As we begin our literary analysis of O Brother Where Art Thou, we need to make ourselves familiar with its literary background. The following questions will help you locate information that will establish such a background. You may work with a partner for this research.
a) This film has a color combination and actual scenes that are said to be reminiscent of Dorothea Lange's Depression era photography. Locate two sources that actually comment on such a comparison. Identify your sources and their commentary.
b) OBWAT has several parallels to the Odyssey. Investigate these parallels, using reputable sources. Share ten points of comparison.
c) Besides being inspired by Homer's story, the film also parallels The Wizard of OZ and an even older film, Sullivan's Travels (also a possible reference to Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels). How is OBWAT patterned after those films?
d) Use the KYVL or a university site to locate a scholarly article regarding the film. Briefly summarize the article's commentary.
e) How did the film do at the Academy Awards? Report.
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