Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Tues. Feb. 23, 2016: Canadian Issues

Today, we examined the issues surrounding the National Anthem (word choice). We will continue this tomorrow.
I also handed out the MOSES sheet to you.

The following notes were placed on the board as part of our discussion.

O Canada

* has religious elements
* contains repetition ("free")
* has four stanzas (more than the one we hear)
* patriarchal (only mention of women is submissive)
* Archaic language (thro' thee)
* initially French
* focus on language (nature/length/landmass)
* focus on freedom (fighting for freedom; protect our Dominion)
* propagandist (Canada is for certain people; the courageous, the humble, the strong, the hard working)

Questions about the Anthem

* What year was it written and what was the purpose?
* Why this anthem?
* Has any of it (in meaning been changed)?
* Are any of the lyrics offensive?
* Does the anthem still represent Canadian views?

Questions to consider if changing the lyrics

* Political correctness
* demographics
* repercussions
* Cost to implement
* Copyright concerns


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