Robbie Paper: Updated 4/28/14

Robbie Paper: Updated 4/28/14

Your paper should read like a 4 question essay test. Each answer should be about 3 paragraphs long. If single-spacing, that should be 2 total pages (2 questions per page). If you double-space, double that estimate.

(A) The story was written in 1940. Obviously, Mr. Asimov was not a fortune teller. Discuss some of his visions regarding what New York would be like at the turn of the 21st century, and, using your 20-20 hindsight, discuss how the world he described differs from today.

(B) Technology today is viewed as a two-edged sword. While some embrace it and wish to use it everywhere (Gloria’s father), some hold on to serious concerns (Gloria’s mom). Compare some of the technology you use today. Is it viewed in the same way as Robbie was in this story?

(C) For most of the last 50 years, technology has been viewed as a “man’s world,” while women seem to be on the outside, looking in. Compare the mother’s and the father’s view of Robbie. Does Asimov fall into this same stereotypical trap?

(D) You have viewed Lurch’s Little Helper and have read “Robbie.” Compare the characters in the two stories. Who do the Addams Family members seem to act like in “Robbie.” Who does Lurch act like?

This is a portfolio assignment, and will be due Monday, May 5, 2014. If you are taking an AP exam that day, you must hand your paper in to Mr. Sciame before, or after, your scheduled exam.

There are nine copies of the book, Robot Visions, in the library. I have also left 33 photocopies of the story in the library. I have asked that the materials be lent for only a 24 hour period. This is to ensure that all 63 of you can get their hands on a copy and do the assignment.