Tuesday, October 23, Second Period

The usual snacks and drinks were laid out for the class, and Aziraphale gave everyone a little time to chatter before calling for their attention. He figured they had a lot to talk about, after all.

"Today we're discussing the concept of the 'Chosen' prophecy. Nearly every culture has stories about 'Chosen Ones', people who will perform some great action, carry out some vital task, that will benefit the culture. Sometimes this 'Chosen One' is prophecied to be a leader, to accomplish some heroic task that will result in an improvement in the lives of his or her people. Sometimes, he or she is seen as a villain, who will bring about the ruin of a leader or a social group through his or her actions. Or both even, depending on your point of view. These sorts of prophecies can also be more personal, affecting a small group of people rather than an entire society. Perhaps the 'Chosen One' is prophecied to act in a way that will bring some great benefit or change to only members of a certain religious group, or even a single family.

"The question I want you to consider today is whether or not this prophecied 'Chosen One' has an obligation to carry out their supposed destiny. Or whether he or she is even able to make that decision. Discuss prophecies you're familiar with that fit this model, and tell the class whether you think 'Chosen Ones' are honor-bound to accept their position, or if it's a matter of personal choice."

After the discussion, Aziraphale passed around some handouts on I Ching. "This is today's exercise, a specialized form of bibliomancy called I Ching. Work alone or with a partner, choose a casting method, and try a few passes to see what you come up with.

"There'll be no homework today, as you'll be having a quiz next week."

[ooc: Please wait for the OCD is up and class is in session.]

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