The Silence Of The Lambs

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Visual Analysis”

After reading Harris’s 1988 novel, students will watch a scene from the 1991 film adaptation. Students will then design a slideshow comparing the written scene and the filmed scene. 

Create a slideshow presentation that compares and contrasts elements of the novel with elements of the film. You will create an argument that answers the question, “To what extent do this scene in the novel and this scene in the film offer similar depictions of Gender Bias Against Women in Male-Dominated Fields? How do they do this?”

• Review Chapter 3. Annotate as you read.

○ Underline details about the setting of this chapter.

○ Draw a star next to details about Clarice.

○ Circle details about Hannibal.

○ In the margins, take notes about what this chapter reveals. For instance, what details in this scene create suspense? Does Clarice conform to or defy your expectations for a female protagonist?

• Watch this two-minute clip from the 1991 film adaptation of the novel, directed by Jonathan Demme.

○ Students may find it helpful to refer to this