Atonement Chapter 9&10 Flashcards
Why does Cecilia change her outfit multiple times before dinner?
She feels the black dress makes her look like a widow and the pink one like a child; she eventually settles on a green silk backless gown that pleases her.
What issue do Jackson and Pierrot face before dinner?
They only have one pair of socks between them and none to wear to dinner.
How does Cecilia initially respond to the state of the twins’ room?
She begins cleaning it but stops when she realizes the boys are ashamed.
What do the twins express while Cecilia comforts them?
They want to go home and are upset they can’t be in the play because Briony has disappeared.
What does Briony’s disappearance represent to Cecilia?
Another burden; she wishes she could enjoy a carefree summer night instead of managing the household.
What action does Cecilia take to help the twins get ready for dinner?
She takes them to Briony’s room to find socks and combs their hair.
What reflections does Cecilia have while stalling on the stairs?
She resents Leon for avoiding responsibility and regrets returning home after Cambridge instead of seeking adventure.
What resolution does Cecilia come to on the stairs?
She decides to move to London, get a job, and appreciate her family from a distance.
What domestic conflict does Cecilia help resolve in the kitchen?
An argument between Emily and Betty over dinner preparations.
How does Cecilia perceive Leon during their garden walk?
As someone who sees others in good faith and lives without complication.
What contrast does Cecilia make between her life and Leon’s?
His life is sunny and simple; hers has been monotonous and burdensome since Cambridge.
How does Cecilia respond to Leon’s invitation to stay in London?
She agrees outwardly but is inwardly repelled by the idea.
What does Briony hand Cecilia on the terrace?
A folded piece of paper
Robbie’s letter
What realization strikes Cecilia after reading Robbie’s letter?
She understands her earlier confusion, the fight over the vase, the outfit changes, her feelings for Robbie.
Why is Cecilia disturbed about the letter?
It has no envelope, she realizes Robbie would never have sent it unsealed, implying Briony read it.
How does Briony react when asked if she read Robbie’s letter?
She ignores Cecilia.
Why does Briony feel changed after reading Robbie’s letter?
She believes she has entered a new world of adult emotions that she doesn’t understand but hopes will help her writing.
How does Briony interpret the unfamiliar terms in the letter?
She believes she understands the sexual meaning and becomes convinced Robbie is dangerous.
What conclusion does Briony draw about Robbie?
She sees him as evil and a threat to her family
Especially Cecilia.
What does Briony do after giving Cecilia the letter?
She runs to her room to reflect and starts writing about the experience.
Why does Lola come into Briony’s room?
To show her bruises and scratches, claiming the twins hurt her because they blame her for not being able to go home.
How does Briony react to Lola’s injuries?
She feels compassion and a sense of power at seeing her older cousin brought low.
What does Briony do to impress Lola?
She shares the contents of Robbie’s letter to Cecilia.
How does Lola respond to Robbie’s letter?
She calls Robbie a “maniac” and encourages Briony to tell the police.
