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Lesson 1 (from Chapters 1-2)

Objective

The novel "Crash" begins with the death of the narrator, James Ballard's friend, Dr. Robert Vaughan. The objective of Lesson 1 is to examine the death of Dr. Robert Vaughan.

Lesson

1) Class Discussion: Why do you think J.G. Ballard chose to begin the novel with Vaughan's death? What details are given about his character? Who is at the scene of his accident? How do spectators respond? Why do you think Elizabeth Taylor's presence is significant? How does the narrator feel about seeing his friend dead?

2) Class Activity: Describe Vaughan as a character through the narrator's eyes. Was he a madman? A criminal? Is the site of his death a crime scene?

3) Writing Activity: In 1-2 paragraphs, write your first impressions of the scene of the accident. What details seem significant about the position of his body and the car?

4) Homework: In preparation for tomorrow's lesson, research...

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