ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews sources of concern and consolation, presents materials and techniques for eliciting and expressing emotion and discusses the “mutuality” — the universality and yet individuality — of each subjective experience. The classroom provides a condusive yet structured setting in which to become aware of varied views of life and death, different styles of coping with loss, and the grieving process. Students are concerned with whether the blob which dies had a “full” life; a life marked by warm relationships, a loving marriage, children and grandchildren. The Life Cycle, an abstract animated film, is an involving, non-threatening instrument that can help students focus on perceptions of life and death. Art expressions in the form of film, dialogue and drawing can give focus and voice to deeply felt concerns that are present in the student of any age. Sometimes students find a community of mutual ideas with one another as well as with the artist.
