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A Lesson Before Dying
Chapters 12-16 Critical Thinking Questions
Instructions: Be sure to answer all aspects of the following questions. Be clear in your responses.
Chapter 12
1. What is the significance of Jackie Robinson and Joe Louis?
2. Why would it “seem like a sin” to be caught laughing when Joe lost the fight? Why would it matter so much?
3. (p. 88) Identify the following and then explain why the author used this type of figurative language:
Anaphora:
Allusion:
Rhetorical Question:
4. Define metaphor.
5. Explain the significance of the little Irishman’s metaphor of how the Irishmen wept at the mention of the name Parnell. What is the purpose of this metaphor—what is it comparing?
6. What do you think that Vivian represents to Grant? (For example, my children represent happiness and innocence to me.)
Chapter 13
7. Explain why Grant does not feel that he can tell Tante Lou and Miss Emma the truth about his most recent visit with Jefferson.
8. The phrase “deep in you” is mentioned several times. What is this referring to and what does it mean in the correct context?
9. Explain how Grant feels about church. Make a guess as to why you think that he feels this way.
Chapter 14
10. List at least 5 things that Vivian and Grant have in common.
Chapter 15
11. Explain the effects of Vivian’s marriage.
12. What word do Tante Lou and Miss Emma use to describe Vivian? Why do you suppose they used this word as opposed to some other word?
13. What did the ladies feel compelled to ask Vivian? Why did they? Why is that so important?
Chapter 16
13. Define irony.
14. Look for the example of irony on page 119. Explain how it is ironic.
15. Why do you think Jefferson had the most hostility for Reverend Ambrose during the visit?
16. Explain Miss Emma’s reaction to Jefferson’s behavior during the visit.