Extract request information without using Servlets

I have an assignment that requires me to simulate a system that runs a web proxy and creates logs of requests containing information such as host, path, query etc. I believe I can accomplish the task using Java Servlets, but I was wondering if this can be achieved without Servlets. I appreciate any kind of advice regarding this matter. To clarify, I am not looking for a written code - I am seeking someone who can point me in the right direction.

Thanks.