English- Arceneaux all units
It's significant because it shows Aunty accepts Mama as her family even though she is not blood related and that she cares for her in the same way as her own brother. It shows that Papa believes this is an Igbo tradition that he hates so much he calls it heathenistic. It could be he is appalled because he wants his wife isolated, he doesn't like his sister's lifestyle that shows she mixes the Catholic/British traditions with the Igbo culture, religion and traditions.
Aunty Ifeoma comes to visit and when speaking to Mama, calls her "nwunye m," or "my wife" (73). Why is it significant that she accepts Mama in such a way? What does Papa's reaction to that term of endearment tell the reader about his beliefs?
She wants to keep Papa's secrets because she is afraid of the consequences of Papa finding out that they have told people the truth. The lying goes against Papa and the Church's rules, but she still does it to protect herself and her family.
Aunty Ifeoma covers for Jaja when Chima asks him about his deformed finger (145). However, Kambili wonders how her aunt knows about the incident, and Jaja says when Aunty asked, he told her the truth. What is peculiar about Kambili's thoughts regarding telling the truth about these situations? Why does she want to remain loyal to her family's secret?
First, the apparition has not been formally recognized by the Catholic Church when they visit, which is against what Papa has taught which is to follow and believe only what the Church approves. Second, she says saw the Virgin Mary and it renewed her. As Father Amadi says "Something from God was happening there" in reference to Kambili's renewed spirituality from something questioned by Catholics, the Church, and Papa himself.
Aunty Ifeoma took all of the children and Father Amadi to see the apparition at Aokpe where "a local girl started to see the vision of the Beautiful Woman" (274-275). How is this renewed religious faith separate from what Kambili was taught by Papa?
The mood encouraging and hopeful. The poem resembles waves.
BLESSING OF THE BOATS: how would you explain the overall mood of this poem?
Clifton is wishing her audience face their upcoming difficulties and life fearlessly and be bold their adventure. The extended metaphor is a person as a boat heading out on a new adventure with the waves as the experiences we face in life.
BLESSING THE BOATS: overall, what does the speaker wish for her audience? then, explain the extended metaphor Clifton employs to deliver this message?
It shows that Papa is a loyal man and loves his family, also that he will not go against his faith. It shows that Mama is very reserved. Papa is loyal and loves his family, but it shows Papa rejects Igbo culture and traditions. Igbo goes against his Catholicism. He even doesn't like them speaking Igbo, but Mama does speak it in the home. It shows that Mama still believes and wants to follow Igbo practices and culture.
Because the Igbo are a patriarchal society, marriage holds the utmost significance in order to procreate and continue the family line. However, it is common for a man who has a barren wife to procreate with a woman other than his wife, or even take a second wife. Why is it significant that Mama pointed out Papa's rejection of other women to her own children? (20). What does the reader learn about Mama's character through these comments?
Paganism is the practice of the older religion and traditionalism is where you practice aspects of the culture and respect it. It is important to clarify the difference because it shows Papa-Nnukwu understands and accepts the modernization of Nigeria, but still holds the practices and traditions of his culture as important. He and Aunty represent the balance between modernization, colonialism and old Igbo culture/traditions. It also shows Papa rejects ALL aspects of Igbo and thinks it's all heathen.
Before picking up Papa-Nnukwu to join on the trip to Ezi Icheke, Kambili explains to her aunt that Papa does not want them to have a relationship with their grandfather because he is a pagan, to which Aunty replies that he is "not a pagan," but a "traditionalist" (81). Research the difference between paganism and traditionalism in the Igbo culture and analyze why it was important for Aunty to clarify the difference.
optimistic, peaceful, calm
Describe the overall atmosphere of "blessing the boats"
The book says Papa is a "colonial product". This means that his mindset is in a colonial mode. Papa makes this evident throughout the chapter by saying certain things and acting a certain way. An example is speaking in an British accent to white people. Papa is a colonial product because he has fully accepted all of the British traditions, language, religion, and way of life. Papa has financially profited from assimilation into British culture. He has built a business with outsiders who are willing to work with him because he is more British than Nigerian. The other characters in the story who do not fully accept British tradition or who outright reject it are financially unstable and some are even very poor like Papa Nnukwu.
Discuss how the impact of colonialism becomes evident throughout the chapter, including the economic divide between the classes.
It's a false hope because even if Jaja's gets out of prison, he has changed as a person and life will not go back to normal. Too much has happened for them to be a cohesive family anymore, especially when they won't talk about it. Nigeria is too plagued by corruption for there to be a lot of change to come from the death of the Head of State. Just like the family, it is a step toward a possible better future, but it is too tied to corruption and abuse for there to be major change.
Do Jaja's upcoming release from prison and the death of the Head of State both represent hope for the family and for Nigeria? Or do these events represent a false hope that has been a part of the Achike family for the majority of their lives?
Jaja: He starts taking more responsibility and starts asserting his freedom and doing what he wants Mama: She is no longer silencing herself or trying to make herself invisible. She does what makes her happy and what she needs to take care of her children. Kambili: She is making small decisions for herself and that she feels she needs to.
Due to Papa's increasing weakness and loss of familial control, Jaja, Kambili, and Mama all seem to change due to the shift in power. Discuss each of the character's growing assertions due to the altered family dynamics.
Her statement means that she is watching something happen but cannot do anything about it to stop. So, she feels helpless. Develops the theme of lack of freedom.
Explain Kambili's metaphorical statement: "I felt, looking at her, that I was helplessly watching precious flaxen sand slip away between my fingers" (93). What theme does this figurative language develop?
It shifts the mood from depressing and negative to hopeful and optimistic because there are good people in the world and the speaker suggests the audience can be one of those people and make the world better
GOOD BONES: explain the importance of lines 16 and 17 to the poem as a whole. how does it affect the poem's overall mood and theme? what is the speaker's closing message for her audience.
The speaker is a parent who is very honest about the world and sees the world as a place with as many bad people as there are good people. But generally doesn't have an optimistic idea of the world.
GOOD BONES: only looking at lines 1-15, describe the speaker of this poem and his/her outlook on life. Be thorough and offer nuance in your explanation of his/her stance
Clifton is using hips to show the power of your individual features and how loving yourself is powerful and empowering. Clifton challenges society's expectations of women by telling women that they have the ability to be powerful if they embrace it.
HOMAGE TO MY HIPS: how does Clifton's poem relate to themes of individuality and self-love'? How does her poem either praise of challenge society's expectations?
Hips are defining feature woman because they affect a woman's shape, women feel insecure about them and they come in different shapes and sizes.
HOMAGE TO MY HIPS: why would Clifton choose to focus this poem around hips as opposed to another body part?
madly in love
HOW DO I LOVE THEE? In this poem, the speaker is_________
eating a delicious fruit
HOW TO EAT A POEM: this poem compares reading a poem to___________
Father Amadi asks her questions about her life, feelings, he shows concern, he compliments her and smiles at her. This makes her feel important. This causes her to develop a crush on him, but her crush is based on the fact that this is the first father-figure that has shown love and compassion to her. So through her relationship with Father Amadi, she starts to realize what love is and what Papa shows is not love.
How does Adichie contrast Kambili's burgeoning feelings for Father Amadi and her feelings for her father to communicate the theme of love? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
Father Amadi asking her why it is a sin to sleep in the same room as her "heathen" grandfather allows her to question her father because she doesn't know the answer and the Catholic priest, who she has been taught to trust and listen to, is questioning the validity of Papa's statement. Him questioning why it is a sin sows doubt that it is not a sin and that Papa's rules aren't always right.
How does the conversation with Father Amadi at the football field open the door for Kambili to question her father's rules? Cite examples for support.
It creates a "different silence" because now they don't acknowledge the repercussions of the abuse and what it caused Mama to do and the fallout of Mama's actions.
How has Papa's abuse created "a different silence" that might never be repaired between Jaja, Kambili, and Mama?
Nigerian politics have silenced Aunty by causing the shutdown of the university and her losing her job. With no ability to get a job somewhere else in Nigeria, she has talked about moving to the United States. It is a theme of the novel. It shows that within this society and family, women are not allowed the have a voice. In the end, even the most outspoken woman in the novel is silenced by the government, showing the level of oppression of women within the novel.
How have Nigerian politics also "silenced" Aunty Ifeoma? What is significant about the fact that the women in the novel are silenced at some point or another?
They kidnapping of individuals critical of the government, they also see people paying off police officers to not search their cars, and the hospital is on strick because of lack of resources and pay. These forms of corruption show that the Nigerian people can't trust or rely on their government or speak out against their government. It makes Nigeria dangerous and restrict place in the story. Papa would not agree with this because of what he publishes in the newspaper and based on his religious beliefs. Mama may agree morality is relative because of her relationship with Papa.
How is the motif of governmental corruption interspersed throughout this chapter? Cite several examples, then analyze how the lack of a democratic government directly impacts the rights of the people. When the family is dining with Papa-Nnukwu, Obiora comments that "Morality, as well as the sense of taste, is relative" (156). Knowing Papa-Nnukwu's beliefs, do you think he agrees with this notion? Would Papa agree with this? Would Mama? Explain your responses for each character.
The theme of perception versus reality is reflected through kambili and her classmates by the way they bully Kambili and are very exclusive. Our perception is everyone gets along and treats each other with respect not based on the amount of money your family has. It's reflected through the Achike family by Papa being so headstrong about his kids being first rank. Papa cares so much about how his kids act, especially when it comes to their grades. Perception of Kambili by her classmates is that she is a snob and uptight because she is very wealthy. They have this perception because she doesn't talk to people and she rushes off when school is over. The reality is that she isn't snob, and she doesn't even realize how wealthy she is instead she is quiet and rushes off because her father expects her to focus on school and be number one. Also, if she is not home by a certain time, she will be punished by him. What we see on the outside doesn't always reflect what is really going on. The Achike family looks perfect on the outside, but the reality is they are unhappy, abused, and fearful.
How is the theme of perception versus reality reflected through Kambili and her classmates? How is it reflected through the Achike family thus far in the novel?
4 lines
How many lines in a stanza is a quatrain?
an English professor or teacher
INTRO TO POETRY: In this poem, the speaker is _______
Gained Independence in 1960 ~ formed a federal system with a prime minister ~formed a republic 1963 Inequality, corruption of the political/election process led to military coups in 1966 ~ tensions between North and South Nigeria (many ethnic, religious, economic, and cultural differences) led to persecution of Igbos and many migrating to Eastern Nigeria
Independence in Nigeria?
It is an immature love because she doesn't know what true love is or have a good example of love. Father Amadi is meant to teach her what love looks like and what people in her life should be doing: helping her, complementing her, believing in her, and encouraging her. She doesn't know what love is until she meets him. It is teenage crush. It is squelched because he is a missionary priest and must travel to a new location to help others like he helped Kambili.
Is Kambili's love for Father Amadi a true love or an immature love? Is it unrequited, or is it squelched for another reason?
He found freedom and growth at Aunty's house and with them leaving he is sad and weighed down with the idea of what is going to happen now that his place of freedom is gone. He is rebelling against oppression of his father by choosing to grow and seeking freedom.
It is made clear by the lack of dialogue that Jaja has changed from the beginning of the novel, and how he is stoic about his aunt and cousins leaving for America, as "finality hung in the air, heavy and hollow" (279). What exactly do you believe he is rebelling against? Use examples throughout the text for support.
He is angry and questioning why God didn't save them from Papa before in some other way. Why did he have to die at the hands of another human for them to be saved from the abuse instead of God protecting them. He's making the connection that other humans had to be the ones who killed Jesus so that Jesus could sacrifice himself when God, who is all powerful, did not do anything to protect his children without Jesus having to die.
Jaja responds to Kambili's previous comment and asks "Why did He [God] have to murder his own son so we would be saved? Why didn't He just go ahead and save us?" (289). What connection is he making between the death of Jesus and his Papa?
Kambili still looks for Papa's approval because there is a part of her that still wants to please her father, especially now that he is dead. She understands that he was abusive, but he is still her father and she seeks that approval.
Kambili comments on Jaja's frustrations about taking care of Mama, and she says "God knows best. God works in mysterious ways," and then thinks "Papa would be proud that I had said that" (289). Why is she still searching for Papa's approval, even though he is now gone?
We both play sports, and they require a lot of time. With school and sports, we struggle to find the balance to be the best we can in sports and school. We can empathize with the pressure Kambili feels she is under because we feel pressure from ourselves, our coaches and other people to try to be the best versions of ourselves.
Kambili describes her determination to be the first in her class as "balancing a sack of gravel" on her head every day at school and "not being allowed to steady it" with her hand (52). What things in your life have you had to balance to achieve something better for yourself? Can you empathize with the pressure Kambili feels she is under?
The university is a microcosm of the country because it is a smaller system that is also corrupt and run by an oppressive leader. The things at the university represent on smaller scale what is going on in the country as a whole Aunty Ifeoma's house is searched because they were trying to find evidence of her sabotaging the university and provoking the riots. The special security men warn her to be careful as a scare tactic to keep her quiet and not speak out in favor of the riots. with people protesting for freedom, equality, better facilities and conditions.
Kambili overhears Aunty Ifeoma and her friend discussing the leadership at the university, and Obiora explains, "The university becomes a microcosm of the country" (224). Look up the definition of microcosm and analyze what Obiora means in regards to the spread of tyranny.
Palm Sunday is a joyous celebration of Jesus arriving at Jerusalem. It leads us into the contemplative holy week where we prepare for the crucifixion of Jesus. The first paragraph contradicts the happiness of Palm Sunday by describing a bad storm coming through that destroyed trees and property.
Knowing what you learned in Chapter 1 about Palm Sunday, how is the first paragraph contradictory to what the religious day is supposed to represent? (Students might need to do more research about the religious events surrounding Palm Sunday to answer this.) (p. 257)
The cousin points out that Kambili and her family have a satellite and stereo that they want to use because it is assumed, they don't have one. Also, Aunty talks about the cost of replacing a part for her stove and Kambili describes her rusted and old station wagon. It is important to see the differences in how people in Nigeria lived even within the same family. It's also important for the reader to see the different "stories" of people's lives in Nigeria or we develop one idea of what Nigeria is (Danger of a Single Story).
List several examples found throughout the chapter that reflect the economic differences between Papa's family and Aunty Ifeoma's family. Why is it important to note these differences? What can the reader infer about Kambili's views about these differences surrounding her family?
the woman is upset by the mirror causing her to be sad, insecure, and self conscious. She fears what she sees in the mirror and getting older. Plath is trying to say don't let society's expectations of beauty make you critical of yourself and hate yourself.
MIRROR: describe the woman presented in lines 10-18. What upsets her, or what does she fear? What comment is Plath making to her audience? (Hint: consider feminine beauty, society's expectations, etc)
Mama continues making excuses because she is afraid, and it is all she knows. It she acknowledges that he is abusive and leaves, it would change her whole life.
Mama flees to Aunty Ifeoma's house after Papa breaks a small table over her belly, killing the fetus Mama was carrying (248), and after Mama speaks with Papa, "she looked like a different woman from the one who had come out of the taxi that morning" (250). Why does Mama continue to make excuses for Papa's violence?
Something life altering is going to happen while visiting Aunty Ifeoma in Nsukka.
Predict what the following statement foreshadows: "Papa called Aunty Ifeoma two days later. Perhaps he would not have called her if we had not gone to confession that day. And perhaps then we would never have gone to Nsukka and everything would have remained the same" (104).
Papa gives food and drinks to the people of Abba because they lack recourses. We think Papa feels superior to others because he is able to provide everything for them and have people respect him. He also gains a feeling of control and that he is a good person in the eyes of God because of the help he provides.
Several times throughout the chapter Papa is called "omelora," or "The One Who Does for the Community" by the villagers (56). Why is he so revered in Abba? Do you think Papa gains something internally from their admiration? Explain
Kambili is not snobbish, but her privileged upbringing has blinded her to the way other people live and so she is shocked. She is unable to speak when faced with someone who expresses herself because it makes her uncomfortable, fearful and shocked. She is also unable because she has never been able to express herself.
Similar to her classmates, Kambili's cousin Amaka takes her silence and reserve for privilege and snobbishness. Is there some truth to Amaka's and her classmates' assumption? Why is Kambili unable to speak when faced with someone who expresses herself?
The hug is painful not just physically, but also emotionally. Other words that create the sad, painful tone are crumpled, sagged, throbbed. Some words that suggest the abusiveness of the scene switch swift, swung.
The first revealing example of Papa's violence occurs when Mama, Jaja, and Kambili are beaten for breaking the Eucharistic fast before church. After the beating, Papa "crushed" Jaja and Kambili into his body to hug them and asked if the "belt hurt" (102). Why does Adichie utilize the word "crushed" to describe a hug? What are other word choices during that violent incident that help create the author's tone?
When Papa stated "But what we Nigerians needed was not soldiers ruling us, what we needed was a renewed democracy," he meant that he wanted a fixed democracy instead of being ruled by military officials which caused an inequality. Papa is pro-democracy even though he runs his house as a dictatorship. Irony.
The military coups of Nigeria were both successful and unsuccessful since the country's independence from the British Empire in 1960. The coups discussed in the novel were a permanent feature of Nigerian culture from 1966-1999. What did Papa mean when he stated "But what we Nigerians needed was not soldiers ruling us, what we needed was a renewed democracy"? (25).
We can infer that the mother's eyes are swollen and puffy due to the crying. She has swollen eyes because of the father's physical and mental abuse. We can infer that it is not the first time this has happened because this was two weeks prior to another disrespectful action that the father did. The casual tone also infers this is very common.
The narrator describes her mother's actions after Papa breaks the figurines and adds imagery of her mother two weeks prior "when her swollen eye was still the black-purple color of an overripe avocado..." (10-11). What can we infer from this description of Kambili's mother? What can we infer from the casual way Kambili inserts this description?
Papa is wearing a long, gray robe like the rest of the oblates and helped distribute ash to everyone. Since Papa is so involved, he might be the leader of the Nigerian people. Father Benedict was the "new" priest. He has been a part of St. Agnes for seven years and they still call him new because he is white. Father Benedict did not accept Igbo and made them recite the Credo and kyrie only in Latin. Since Father Benedict is changing everything and seems to be the only one of his kind taking part of this mass, he might be trying to take over the Nigerian people or "help" nourishing them. "His line moved the slowest because he pressed...dust unto dust you shall return" Shows that Papa is very strict and serious religion and the practices to the point where everything he does in this ritual has to be perfect. His role as oblate also shows he is respected in the church and very involved. Father Benedict and Igbo language during mass. Father Benedict is white and British and he forbids any Igbo language or traditions to be used in mass. He represents colonialism and the idea of the British taking over Nigeria and erasing Nigerian culture, traditions and forcing local Nigerians to assimilate. The only time he allows Igbo language is during the sacred parts of the mass shows he is trying to force control over Nigerian people.
The narrator describes the religious traditions her family follows every Palm Sunday. Reread the first paragraph, analyze the significance of the characters who are participating in the traditions of Palm Sunday, and predict what those roles might mean throughout the novel.
Papa-Nnukwu: He believes in a more free, traditional religious practice and dislikes the oppressiveness of organized religion and the effect it has had on his son, but he does not seem to be against organized religion. Father Amadi: he is a Catholic priest; therefore he believes in organized religion, but he believes in a balance of local tradition and Catholicism. He also believes that religion should be something you choose and that you should love it and have it fulfil you. Aunty Ifeoma: similar beliefs as Father Amadi; is a practicing Catholic, but does not believe in the oppressive and patriarchal nature of the Catholic Church Papa: very strong belief in organized religion. He believes everyone should be Christian, that is perfect and the only way to live life
Throughout the novel thus far, Adichie explores the oppressive nature of religion, not only on an individual's soul, but also on the hypocritical inclinations in religious groups. Although there are many instances of religious compromise and tolerance, some of the characters struggle with their views. Based on what you have read thus far, what stance do the following characters take on organized religion and why? Papa-Nnukwu, Father Amadi, Amaka, Aunty Ifeoma, and Papa.
On page 212, after she wakes up, her father leans down to her and starts trying to comfort her and she closes her eyes. Also on page 214, her mother tells that her father has been by her side the whole time and Kambili turns her head away even though it is painful and difficult. It shows she is rejecting him and is recognizing how he manipulates her.
What actions and internal dialogue reflect a change in Kambili's feelings toward her father after the violent incident that almost killed her?
We see Amaka's rejection of Eurocentric mindset because she listens to local Nigerian "socially conscious" music and she has paintings of Nigerian people. She also mocks her cousins for their lack of knowledge of the typical Nigerian way of life and Igbo culture. Her cousins don't know about the issues with water, sewage, and social unrest, which she constantly points out. This important because it helps the audience understand the real Nigeria.
What are some examples of Amaka's rejection of the Eurocentric colonial mindset? Why might her viewpoint be significant in relation to the previous question?
The figurines, painting, and purple hibiscus all provide comfort and strength to their corresponding characters.
What do Mama's figurines, Kambili's painting, and Jaja's purple hibiscus provide for all three characters in a world of unhinged violence?
When Kambili talks about her parent's relationship with each other she says "I could not even think of her and papa together, on the bed they shared," it shows that their relationship with each other is very non affectionate. This is significant because shows that Kambili and Jaja don't really know what love looks like. You would expect them to have more of an affectionate relationship instead of a brief one which Kambili describes as "exchanging the sign of peace at mass".
What does the reader learn about Kambili's perception of Mama and Papa's love for one another? (21). Why is this significant for the reader?
She has a very narrow point of view that is affected by her social class and upbringing. It also is mostly based on what her father has said and taught her as seen when she explains things by saying "Papa says". This does affect the way audience views Nigeria. Based on the first half of the book, Nigeria seems like a patriarchal, upper middle-class country with pro-colonial and Catholic Church viewpoints. It is not until they visit Aunty in Nsukka that the audience sees a different lifestyle and starts to have a better understanding of the country, its struggles, its culture, and Igbo culture and religion.
What has the reader learned about Kambili thus far through the way she perceives her surroundings and through other people's views of her? Does the way Kambili narrates the story affect the reader's perception of Nigeria and the Igbo people? Provide several examples from this chapter for support.
Papa believes that he deserves respect for his faith from the people around him, but he doesn't respect other people with different faith and beliefs. (his father)
What is ironic about Papa's beliefs and his actions?
At first, Jaja denies that Papa-Nnukwu and says with authority that he is alive, but then after realization hits, he starts taking care of the body and he is very upset but not showing his emotions. Kambili does not touch or look at the body and she is in shock and confused. Their reactions are in character because like usual Jaja steps up and takes responsibility even if he doesn't know what to do and Kambili sits back and watches unsure of her place and what is the right thing to do.
What is significant about Kambili and Jaja's reaction to Papa-Nnukwu's death? Are their reactions expected or unexpected?
when the hero must darkest part of their journey or turn away from it
What is the abyss and temptation?
The mood in the opening of the chapter is happy as created through the author stating "Laughter always rang out in Aunty Ifeoma's house, and no matter where the laughter came from, it bounced around all the walls, all the rooms" (140).
What is the opening mood of this chapter, and how is it created by the author?
The author used this simile to show that no one ever talked back to Papa and compared it to Aunty Ifeoma's purple hibiscus because that are rare with undertones of freedom. Jaja talking back to Papa is rare just like the purple hibiscus and Jaja talking back symbolizes freedom that he showed when talking back to his father. Its Jaja advocating for his personal freedom instead of freedom for a group. It makes the journey and fight more emotional and more meaningful.
What is the purpose and effect of the following simile that the narrator uses to describe Jaja's defiance toward his father: "Jaja's defiance seemed to me now like Aunty Ifeoma's experimental purple hibiscus: rare, fragrant with the undertones of freedom, a different kind of freedom from the one the crowds waving green leaves chanted at Government Square after the coup. A freedom to be, to do"? (16).
She means that there are times when people need to be defiant and stand up for themselves or others. It's significant because Aunty is suggesting that it is ok to stand up to oppressive powers like Papa.
What is the significance of Aunty Ifeoma stating to Jaja "Defiance is like marijuana—it is not a bad thing when it is used right" when discussing the legendary king of ethnic Nigerians Jaja of Opobo? (144).
Snakes are usually depicted, especially within the Bible, as evil and dangerous and prey upon the weak, which Father Benedict is doing. On page 105, Kambili is in confession with Father Benedict and he is manipulating her to say something she isn't comfortable saying. Kambili is so used to her father's control that she is scared to be without him because she has never had freedom and she is scared of that freedom.
What is the significance of Father Benedict's eyes being described as "the same green shade of a snake..."? (105). • When Jaja and Kambili discuss wanting to go to Nsukka, why does her throat tighten "at the thought of five days without Papa's voice, without his footsteps on the stairs"? (108).
The significance of Jaja killing the chicken with a cold precision is it shows that he is becoming desensitized and more violent. It may indicate that he is becoming more like his father or that he is willing to do what needs to be done to stand up for himself and others. Kambili has begun to see her brother as cold and distant because he has become that way towards her and so their bond is not as strong.
What is the significance of Jaja killing the chicken with a "precision...a singlemindedness that was cold, clinical"? (235). How has Kambili begun to see her brother? Is their bond as strong as it was in the past? Why or why not?
Papa didn't laugh w Ade Coker made the joke, because he takes his business seriously and wants only the truth for the Standard. He also didn't find it funny because he is the one who got him out of jail and didn't find it amusing. Papa's silence shows besides being serious, he is afraid.
What is the significance of Papa's silence when Ade Coker said, "Imagine what the Standard would be if we were all quiet"? (58).
The author is stating that religion in Nigeria needs to acknowledge and incorporate the traditions and culture of Nigeria. How Aunty punishes her child with violence because he disrespected an adult, which is different from Papa because his punishments oppress and silence his family. Aunty's children are still outspoken and carefree. While both are doing it as punishment and to teach lessons, the outcome of the punishments is different and have different deeper motives.
What larger statement might the author be making about religion in Nigeria in regards to the casual nature of St. Peter's Catholic Chaplaincy versus the rigidity of Kambili's Catholic church St. Agnes? Use details of both to support your response.
The mood that rubs off on the readers was disappointment. Yes, I felt this way after I did not get the grade my parents expected me to get on a test. Other moods: pity, shame
What mood does Kambili's statement, "I was stained by failure," create for the reader? (39). Have you ever felt this way about yourself? Explain.
Under british rule there was... ~ implementation of Western and English language ~ spread of Christianity ~especially through creation of schools by religious institutions ~ consolidation of economy to export of cash crops ~ this caused economic divide with many migrating to certain areas to find jobs
What was the British Control like in Nigeria?
~ made up of tribal kingdoms and empires for thousands of years. these kingdoms were diverse, large and successful. ~ Portuguese introduced slavery to southern Nigeria in 16th century ~ in the 1800s, European missionaries started converting Nigerians to Christianity ~ starting in the 1840s, Britain began colonizing parts of Nigeria with the successful colonization becoming complete in 1914
What were pre-colonial Nigeria and slavery times like?
She yearns for the strict order and silence because that's all she knows and without she doesn't know what to do. As humans we cling to what we know. Aunty allows talking, communication, they work together, they are cohesive, and this is in part because of Aunty's way of thinking but also because she has no husband. Papa's household is strict, restrictive, lacks freedom, and is controlled by Papa.
When Aunty Ifeoma laughed about the schedule Papa gave his children to follow while visiting, Kambili's "mouth felt dry," her "tongue clinging to the roof" of her mouth (124). Why does Kambili yearn for the strict order and silence of her home? How do the family dynamics differ in each household, and why are the differences significant?
Jaja is trying to distance from Kambili and the family because he blames himself that he didn't protect his family and that his mother was the one who had to kill Papa to protect them.
When Kambili tries to communicate with Jaja through eye contact, they are blank "like a window with its shutter drawn across" (289). Why?
It is significant because Papa-Nnukwu is dying.
When describing the lumps of fufu that Aunty Ifeoma uses to "bury" Papa-Nnukwu's tablets in, the image the narrator uses to compare them to is "spherical coffins" (163). Why is this word choice significant?
Her hibiscuses are purple because a co-worker cross bred them with multiple types and colors to create this one-of-a-kind flower color. It represents Aunty's house and the freedom that Aunty's house allows. Jaja is the one who initially connects with it and focuses on it.
Why are Aunty Ifeoma's hibiscuses purple, rather than another color? Of what are they a result? Why is their existence significant to the story thus far?
Papa does not like his pagan father, so he instructs Kambili and Jaja to not drink or eat anything in the home. He doesn't want his influence rubbing off on his children and their faith. Papa's father reminds him of Igbo traditions and his father's refusal to convert. Papa is afraid Papa-Nnukwu will go to hell if he doesn't convert. Also reminds him that his wife's father was the perfect Catholic and his own father wont even convert.
Why are Kambili and Jaja instructed to stay at Papa-Nnukwu's house for only 15 minutes? What does Papa's traditionalist father constantly remind him of?
Papa pays for the best doctors because he feels responsible. Their silences are similar to each other because they are result of trauma and it is connected to their fathers.
Why does Papa pay for Ade Coker's daughter to see the best doctors and therapists in Nigeria and abroad? (259). How is the cause of the daughter's silence similar to Kambili's silence throughout the novel?
Aunty is fearless because she openly speaks her mind, talks to her brother (Papa) with attitude and openly disagrees with him. It is uncomfortable and forbidding because Kambili has been raised to not have that freedom to speak out, especially against Papa. She disrupts the order by demanding the children do things that normal teenagers would do, especially because they are on holiday and not follow the strict schedule of Papa. She also disrupts the order by encouraging Mama to rest and stand up for herself.
Why is Aunty Ifeoma's "fearlessness" uncomfortable and forbidding to Kambili? (76). How does Kambili's outlook about Papa change when Ifeoma is interacting with him? How does she disrupt the order of Papa's family?
Ade Coker was arrested because of the big cover story about the Head of State and his wife that paid people to transport heroin abroad, which was a story that questioned the recent execution of three men and who the real drug barons were. The implications of his arrest regarding the Head of State using violence to discourage free speech is that the newspaper business is now going undercover so that no one will be able to know who is writing the stories. The suppression of free speech does happen today. An example would be North Korea being disconnected from the rest of the world and the minorities not being able to speak up about how they feel with everything that is going on around them. Ade Coker was arrested criticizing and drawing attention to the government's wrongdoings. Nigeria is under military rule and citizens do not have free speech rights and the government will go as far as killing you to make sure you don't speak out. Even though Papa owns the newspaper and promotes speaking out against the government, his family does not have the same freedoms within their household. He doesn't let them speak their mind or speak Igbo and when Jaja does, he gets punished.
Why was Ade Coker arrested? What are the implications of his arrest in regard to the Head of State using violence to suppress and discourage free speech? Does suppression of free speech happen in today's society? Explain.
quintain
a five line stanza
quatrain
a four line stanza with a discernable rhyme scheme
monostich
a one line stanza
repetition
a poetic device that involves intentionally using a word or phrase two or more times in a poem for effect
stanza
a series of lines grouped together
septet
a seven line stanza sometimes called a rhyme royal
sestet
a six line stanza
tercet
a three line stanza that all rhymes or at least two of the three lines rhyme
couplet
a two line stanza that rhymes
octave
an eight line stanza with a discernable rhyme scheme
shifts also called turns or voltas
any noticeable change in the poem, such as the speaker's tone or perspective changing
formal verse
describes any type of poetry that follows a strict meter and rhyme
free verse
describes any type of poetry that is open and modern
3 quatrains + 1 couplet
how are English or Shakespearean sonnets divided?
Professor Okafor's son stole exam papers and sold them to the students, which caused the university to shut down. The professor then beat his son and punished him for it. Professor Okafor is known for not speaking out against the government and always trying to win favor with powerful people. It is a lesson in tyranny and oppression because his father has taught him cheat the system for his own benefit and the father then punishes him for doing what the father does. The people who are oppressed are just trying to do and say things to help themselves and when they do, the tyrants come in, punish them, and oppress them again.
how is the story about Professor Okafor's son a lesson about oppression and tyranny? (p. 243-244)
14
how many lines does a sonnet have?
caesura
is a stop or pause in line of verse, often marked by punctuation mark like a comma, dash, etc
petrarch
name of the Italian poet known for FIRST popularizing the sonnet
end-stop
occurs when a sentence's or clause's end falls at the end of a line of poetry
anaphora
repetition at the beginning of lines of verse
epistrophe
repetition at the ends of lines if verse
end-rhymes
rhyming words at the ends of lines of verse
his dream
santiago's call to adventure?
speaker
someone who is the voice of the poem
enjambment
the continuation of a sentence or clause across a line break
alliteration
the repetition of initial sounds (typically consonant sounds)
assonance
the repetition of internal vowel sounds
special weapon
the stage when the hero gains something only they can use to help them in their journey
unusual birth
the stage where something sets them apart from the beginning
Master of two worlds
the stage where the hero achieves balance in the familiar and unfamiliar world
true or false: free verse sometimes mimics the cadence of natural speech and thought.
true
true/false: IN AN ARTIST'S STUDIO: In the poem, a painted obessively paints his muse and ignores her reality.
true
true/false: the hero can refuse to answer the call to adventure
true
simile, imagery, alliteration, hyperbole, enjambment
what are some examples of figurative language in the poem BARBIE DOLL?
creates rhythm and smooth flow
what does anaphora create in the poem HOW TO EAT A POEM?
talks about girl from infancy to puberty
what does the first stanza in the poem BARBIE DOLL talk about?
death
what does the fourth stanza in the poem BARBIE DOLL talk about?
poem
what does the maze represent in the poem INTRO TO POETRY?
person reading the poem
what does the mouse represent in the poem INTRO TO POETRY?
teen years
what does the second stanza in the poem BARBIE DOLL talk about?
young adult
what does the third stanza in the poem BARBIE DOLL talk about?
there is a hidden painting that he discovers and it stands out among the rest. Her beauty draws him to her. The painting changes based on what he needs to see at that moment none of the changes are more important than another. He's obsessed with the painting; is not what is depicted in it, but how it affects him. Subject is a woman in a painting omnipresent narrator.
what happens "IN AN ARTIST'S STUDIO"?
how much she misses him at all times and and in all places. connects pain to time and place. Impossible to find relief because he is in her memories and with her always- connects to memories
what happens in "TIME DOES NOT BRING RELIEF?"
talking about her unconditional love for him in the present. The past she was hurt and almost lost him. She reunited with him and loved him even after death.
what happens in HOW DO I LOVE THEE?"
fatima
what is Santiago's temptation?
they generally experience some sort of growth, overcoming obstacles and or gaining knowledge
what is a hero?
a (usually) positive figure who aids and/or trains the hero
what is a mentor?
refers to common character types, symbols and relationships in literature
what is archetype?
acceptance
what is not a part of the Hero's journey?
the people he met along the way, his treasure, gained knowledge
what is santiago's reward?
the part of the journey where the hero enters the "unknown" world
what is the Threshold?
when the journey to the possible hero is revealed?
what is the call to adventure?
not about what it says, its about how it makes you feel.
what is the main idea of the first stanza in ARS POETICA?
poetry is unique, about the everyday and small things
what is the main idea of the poem ARS POETICA #100: I BELIEVE?
poem should be timeless
what is the main idea of the second stanza in ARS POETICA?
the struggle of women to overcome male repression especially in writing, education. The only women poets in mentioned through praise by a man.
what is the main idea of the sonnet "SONNETS UNCORSETED?"
not about the meaning, about the emotions.
what is the main idea of the third stanza in ARS POETICA?
when the hero is back in the normal world, but must live in the new world having been changed
what is the mastery of two worlds?
the boring place where the story begins
what is the ordinary world?
when the hero reconciles or apologizes to the "father figure" or visa versa
what is the reconciliation?
true love overcomes obstacles & lasts forever
what is the theme of "HOW DO I LOVE THEE?"
can't escape grief because of our memories
what is the theme of "TIME DOES NOT BRING RELIEF?"
poetry is meant to be enjoyed and consumed like the way you eat your favorite food.
what is the theme of HOW TO EAT A POEM?
reader not experiencing it, just trying to find an answer
what is the theme of the poem INTRO TO POETRY?
focusing on only appearance and perception breaks your spirit/causes downfall
what is the theme or message the author is trying to convey to the audience in the poem BARBIE DOLL?
aggressive, passionate, humorous
what is the tone of HOW TO EAT A POEM?
sarcastic
what is the tone of the poem BARBIE DOLL?
Italian sonnet
what kind of sonnet is "HOW DO I LOVE THEE?"
variation on the Italian sonnet
what kind of sonnet is "IN AN ARTIST'S STUDIO"?
no formal, consistent rhyme scheme, part of larger poem
what kind of sonnet is "SONNETS UNCORSETED"?
twist on Italian sonnet
what kind of sonnet is "TIME DOES NOT BRING RELIEF"?
mastery of two worlds
when Santiago returns to Spain and then says "Fatima I'm coming" is what stage of his journey?
when he begins his journey to Africa
when does Santiago cross the Threshold?
shift occurs in line 12 (stanza 6) changes to tone of frustration and from what he wants to his student to do.
where is the shift in the poem INTRO TO POETRY?
epistrophe
which device? - now i drive alone past your street. - now i drive alone past your street.
alliteration
which device? Betty's Burgled Bakery (Bs)
end-rhyme
which device? llama llama red pajama hollers loudly for his mama (ama)
caesura
which device? red lights, stop signs I still see your face in the white care, front yards (the commas)
sonnet
which form traditionally has a tight formal rhyme scheme and meter (rhythm)?
mirror
which poems explore the unrealistic beauty standards society places on women?
melchizedek and the alchemist
who are the mentor's to Santiago?
persona
who is anyone or anything besides the poet, like another human, a spirit, an animal, an inanimate object, etc
young women
who is the intended audience in the poem BARBIE DOLL?
the speaker is the mirror and it changes from the mirror describing itself to the mirror describing the woman in the mirror. The tone is reflective/contemplative and gloomy
who is the speaker and what is the tone of the poem "MIRROR?"
Billy Collins, a professor
who is the speaker in the poem INTRO TO POETRY?
omnipotent narrator
who is the speaker of the poem BARBIE DOLL?
the mirror says she is "not cruel" because it only shows what is there. The mirror has power over people because what it reflects effects the way the person values views and values themselves. Plath is saying people give the mirror too much power over them and should not allow the reflection in the mirror to be how a person places value on themselves.
why would the speaker in the poem "MIRROR" say she is "not cruel"? why would she compare herself to a "little god"? what complex message is Plath creating for the readers?
The author's tone is desperation. The author is showing that the narrator wants to go back to normal and wants to live a happy life. She wants to go back to the way it was. She forces a fake emotion, hoping it will create a new one. The quote shows it is hurting her to say this. Associates the idea of pain with love. Tone is desperate, sad, painful.
"'Thank you, Papa.'" I said, feeling the love burn my tongue." What is the author's tone here? Explain.
idiosyncratic
ARS POETICA #100: I BELIEVE: The speaker believes poetry is _________
what the art of poetry is
ARS POETICA: This poem is the poet's meditations on________
Kambili's family is in a tyranny because her family is being ruled by a military regime making them not have any freedom. Her family (tyranny) vs others (free).Kambili and her family live under the tyrannical rule of her father, while other families have freedom even under the control of a tyrannical government. Her thoughts and comments indicate that she doesn't realize the restrictive nature of her life or how to break out of it. Just as the Nigerian people are rebelling against the military government, Jaja is rebelling against Papa.
Adichie makes it clear in this chapter that Nigeria is now ruled by a military regime, and therefore the soldiers can act with exemption from punishment. How is the theme of freedom versus tyranny illustrated through Kambili's thoughts and comments in this chapter?
Her imagining her father dead in this violent manner is symbolic of Kambili's changing ideas and feelings about her father.
After Ade Coker's assassination, Kambili starts to have violent nightmares (207). What is symbolic about Kambili replacing herself in the nightmare for Ade's daughter, and her father for Ade?
"He was still smiling as I quietly turned and went back to the bedroom. I never smiled after we said the rosary back home. None of us did" (169). She has better understanding and greater respect for his religion because she sees it makes him happy and fulfills him, something that her religion doesn't do for her.
After Kambili calls Papa-Nnukwu a heathen again, Aunty Ifeoma wants her to see her grandfather's rituals and to teach her about his faithfulness to his traditionalist beliefs (167-168). How do Kambili's views change after watching the full ritual? Explain.
She is probably in shock, ashamed, and embarrassed. She doesn't want to see how someone would react because it is the first time she has told the truth. Papa still has "control" because he still has control over making her feel ashamed and hurt, but he doesn't have the same type or level of control because she is speaking out and acknowledging what he has done to her.
Amaka asks Kambili if it was her father who hurt her and, for the first time, she admits to the truth. Why won't Kambili look at Amaka to see her reaction to this response? Does Papa still have "control" over her? (p. 220)
The simile creates a dark/ foreboding tone that is significant because it foreshadows something terrible is going to occur.
Analyze the impact of the following simile: "Silence hung over the table like the blue-black clouds in the middle of rainy season" (32). What tone does it create and why is it significant?
This quote shows Papa as a Jesus when he goes to the different towns to heal people and the crowds reach out to touch him and be healed. It is ironic because Papa abuses and suppresses those in his life and does not represent unconditional love. Also, Papa uses money to help people instead of his own hands and working with people.
As Mass ends, Papa donates money to fund the priest's new house, and after his donation amount is announced, Papa left "smiling and waving at the many hands that reached out to grasp his white tunic as if touching him would heal theme of an illness" (91). Analyze the symbolic figure he seems to represent and the irony of this symbolic depiction.
The symbolize Jaja's growth over the course of the novel and his breaking out of oppression and finding freedom.
As they arrive at their home in Enugu, Jaja notes "the purple hibiscuses are about to bloom" (253). What do they symbolize? Why does Jaja mention them right before the flashback to Chapter 1?
