opening Flashcards
How does the 1916 Proclamation influence the tone in Small Things Like These?
It raises hopes for equality and optimism, contrasting with the harsh realities in Shawshank and Sive.
What is the initial impression of the setting in Shawshank?
We encounter ruthless, remorseless characters, creating an air of hopelessness.
How is an air of hopelessness conveyed in Sive?
Through a setting of relentless poverty, with a poorly furnished kitchen and struggles for survival.
How is optimism affected in Small Things Like These?
It quickly diminishes as the setting, 1980s Wexford, is shown to lack hope.
What do the three stories reveal about human relationships?
They each explore the cruelty and brutality in human connections.
How is man’s inhumanity to man demonstrated in Small Things Like These?
Bill’s mother is rejected by her family after becoming pregnant outside of marriage.
What event shows cruelty in Shawshank?
Hadley severely injures a prisoner, who is then left to suffer until morning.
How is the family dynamic destructive in Sive?
Sive’s family resents her presence, with lines like ‘What a happy home we had before you came into it.’
How does Small Things Like These portray small acts of kindness?
Bill helps a child by giving him spare change, believing that ‘small things like these’ make life worthwhile.
How does kindness appear in Shawshank?
Brooks shows kindness by caring for a small animal, mirroring Furlong’s compassion in Small Things.
How does Mena’s character in Sive contrast with the kindness shown in Small Things and Shawshank?
Mena prioritizes money over Sive’s well-being, willing to let her suffer for financial gain.
What theme is central to all three stories, though it manifests differently?
Hope serves as a sustaining force, appearing as kindness in Small Things, a survival mechanism in Shawshank, and love in Sive.
How does hope manifest in Shawshank?
Through Andy’s resilience, symbolized by walking the yard ‘like he had on an invisible coat.’
How does hope appear in Sive?
Liam Scuab’s love for Sive provides support and belief in a better future.
How does Mrs. Wilson’s role in Small Things Like These embody hope?
Her kindness and generosity support Furlong and reflect her intrinsic goodness.
