"The Very Old Folk" by H.P. Lovecraft Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

Help high schoolers go beyond basic comprehension and sharpen their critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet on H.P. Lovecraft’s narrative “The Very Old Folk,” a short story in the horror genre about a dream in which a Roman military official seeks vengeance against enemies. An answer key and copy of the text are included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this close reading activity, students will:

• Read for literal comprehension
• Consult reference materials to learn and verify word meanings
• Infer the intended effects of the authors’ word choices and narrative techniques
• Determine the main purpose of a given passage
• Explore how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop
• Apply knowledge of literary devices including situational irony
• Support claims and inferences with sound reasoning and relevant evidence
• Write about fiction with clarity, accuracy, and precision
• Come to class better prepared to discuss literature