The Phantom of the Opera (Calico Illustrated Classics) (Calico Illustrated Classics Set 2)
Calico Illustrated Classics Series
What’s inside...
Gaston Leroux's classic horror tale, The Phantom of the Opera, takes place in the Paris Opera House where a disfigured musical genius lives. Known as the Phantom, he falls in love with Christine Daae, a young opera singer with little talent. He secretly gives her singing lessons, helping her become a star. However, his love and teachings come with a price. Discover the cost of the Phantom's affection in the Calico Illustrated Classics adaptation of Leroux's story.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when the Phantom was helping Christine? Do you think his actions were right or wrong?
How do the characters in the story show bravery or fear? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
Why do you think the Phantom hides behind his mask? What do you think this symbolizes?
Do you think the setting of the opera house adds to the mystery of the story? How does it make you feel?
If you were in Christine’s place, how would you handle the situation with the Phantom?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by asking about their favorite part of the book to make them feel comfortable and open.
Encourage empathy by asking how they would feel in the characters' situations, fostering a deeper understanding of motives and actions.
Discuss the historical and cultural setting of the opera house to broaden their contextual understanding.
Highlight the moral dilemmas faced by the characters to spark more nuanced thinking about right and wrong.
End with asking how the story could have ended differently to engage creative thinking and alternative perspectives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays the Phantom, who despite his frightening appearance and demeanor, has a longing for acceptance and love. This character complexity helps children understand that people may act out because of their own pain or insecurities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to look beyond appearances and behaviors to understand others' feelings and perspectives, fostering empathy and patience in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The Phantom's actions in the opera house lead to various consequences, affecting everyone around him. The narrative demonstrates how one's actions can impact others, either positively or negatively.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to consider the effects of their behavior on others and encourage them to act kindly and thoughtfully.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Inner Beauty
Explanation: Christine, one of the protagonists, is drawn to the Phantom's musical genius and inner turmoil, seeing beyond his physical appearance. The story emphasizes the value of appreciating people for their inner qualities rather than their outward appearance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by valuing and respecting others based on their character and actions rather than how they look.
Example Lesson: Courage and Moral Integrity
Explanation: Characters in the story, like Raoul, display courage and integrity by standing up for what is right, even when faced with danger. This highlights the importance of being brave and adhering to one's moral principles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to be courageous in standing up against wrongdoing and staying true to their values in challenging situations.
Example Lesson: The Power of Compassion
Explanation: Despite the Phantom's intimidating actions, Christine shows him compassion, which ultimately influences his decisions towards the end of the story. This demonstrates the transformative power of kindness and compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach conflicts with compassion, understanding that kindness can often lead to positive changes in others' behavior.