The Hunger Games (Mockingjay) - Hanging Tree Song Analysis and Annotation.

Analysis Questions

1. The original lyrics to the "Hanging Tree" appears at a time of political unrest in Mockingjay.  What emotions is are trying to be evoked from the people in District 12 when Katniss sings the "Hanging Tree" song?

2. According to the story, The "Hanging Tree" is a song that Katniss' father taught her as a child.  Compare the song to the children's rhyme "Ring Around the Rosy" and discuss why these songs might be taught to children and if it is appropriate to do so.

3. Describe the tone of the song. List a direct quote from the lyrics that shows the tone (diction).

4.  The "Hanging Tree" song has tones of an Appalachian ballad.  Why would the composer want to give the lyrics the tune of a folk song?

5.  Re-read the lyrics of the song and determine if the song is completely morbid or if you can find an element of hope.  Cite specific examples of your findings.

Annotation

With your group members, using the left side of the page, annotate the lyrics identifying the following:

·         Tone

·         Interesting diction

·         Point of View

·         Repetition

·         Metaphor

·         Setting

·         Imagery, it’s type, and the effect

·         Simile

·         Speaker

Then, using the right side of the page, annotate the lyrics identifying:

·         The connections between the lyrics and the novel. Use the text to find direct quotes in order to support your analysis!