Kate Tierney’s Language Arts Classes

Part A:
Choose ONE of the following topics about which to write a fully developed essay that explains the theme as illuminated by the story. In order to receive full credit for the essay, you must underline your thesis statement and use examples from the book that support your point.

1. Masculinity and War
2. The Nature of Competition, Envy and Friendship
3. Redemption and Reconciliation
4. Loss of Innocence
5. The Journey from Boyhood to Manhood

Part B:
Choose ONE of the following questions (or group of questions) to answer in a fully developed essay that supports your answer using the text.

1. Does Gene make peace with himself by the end of the novel? Explain why he is conflicted, and then what parts of the story show his conflict and its resolution (or lack thereof).

2. Was jouncing the limb a planned, conscious decision on Gene’s part or was it an impulsive act? Why might Gene have wanted to see Finny fall? How did the “accident” change both boys’ identity from the beginning of the novel?

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