Writing Options
1. Folk Tale
Rewrite “What Men Live By” as the folk tale that you imagine Tolstoy first heard. You’ll need to
strategically omit details to shorten and simplify the tale.
2. Different Perspectives
Imagine you lived in the same village and Simon and Matrëna. Write a letter or series of letters to a
friend describing the events that occur in their household.
3. Modern Connections
Taking in a stranger can be dangerous in contemporary society. Explain what you think would happen if
Michael appeared in your neighborhood in need of food, clothing, and shelter. Explore whether or not
he would be able to learn the same lessons.
Writing Options
1. Folk Tale
Rewrite “What Men Live By” as the folk tale that you imagine Tolstoy first heard. You’ll need to
strategically omit details to shorten and simplify the tale.
2. Different Perspectives
Imagine you lived in the same village and Simon and Matrëna. Write a letter or series of letters to a
friend describing the events that occur in their household.
3. Modern Connections
Taking in a stranger can be dangerous in contemporary society. Explain what you think would happen if
Michael appeared in your neighborhood in need of food, clothing, and shelter. Explore whether or not
he would be able to learn the same lessons.
Writing Options
1. Folk Tale
Rewrite “What Men Live By” as the folk tale that you imagine Tolstoy first heard. You’ll need to
strategically omit details to shorten and simplify the tale.
2. Different Perspectives
Imagine you lived in the same village and Simon and Matrëna. Write a letter or series of letters to a
friend describing the events that occur in their household.
3. Modern Connections
Taking in a stranger can be dangerous in contemporary society. Explain what you think would happen if
Michael appeared in your neighborhood in need of food, clothing, and shelter. Explore whether or not
he would be able to learn the same lessons.