The prison Flashcards
What is the central theme of ‘The Prison’?
“The story explores themes of entrapment
Who is the protagonist of ‘The Prison’?
“Tommy Castelli
How does the title ‘The Prison’ relate to the story?
“The title symbolizes Tommy’s figurative imprisonment—trapped in an unhappy marriage
How does Tommy feel about his life?
“He is deeply dissatisfied and regrets the choices that led him to his current situation
What is Tommy’s backstory?
“As a young man
What role does Rosa, Tommy’s wife, play in the story?
“Rosa represents the oppressive reality of Tommy’s life—she is controlling
What is the significance of the setting in ‘The Prison’?
“The candy store symbolizes Tommy’s confinement
How does the young girl in the story reflect Tommy’s own life?
“Tommy sees himself in the girl when he catches her stealing candy
What does Tommy try to do for the young girl?
“He tries to stop her from stealing
What is the irony in Tommy’s attempt to help the girl?
“Despite wanting to save her
What literary devices does Malamud use in ‘The Prison’?
“Symbolism
What is the significance of Tommy’s realization at the end of the story?
“He understands that he is completely powerless
How does Malamud use imagery to enhance the story?
“He describes the cramped
What does the candy store symbolize?
“It represents Tommy’s confinement—a place where he is stuck
Why does Tommy hesitate to take action in his life?
“He feels defeated by past mistakes and trapped by circumstances beyond his control.”
What is the message about fate in ‘The Prison’?
“The story suggests that some people are destined to remain trapped in cycles they cannot break
How does Tommy’s interaction with the girl reflect his own inner struggle?
“He wants to protect her from making the same mistakes he did
What is the significance of the ending?
“The story ends on a note of hopelessness
How does ‘The Prison’ explore the theme of regret?
“Tommy constantly reflects on his past and wishes he had made different choices
What is the overall tone of the story?
“The tone is somber and melancholic
How does Malamud portray the idea of control in ‘The Prison’?
“Tommy is controlled by his circumstances
Why does Tommy not confront the girl about stealing in a harsher way?
“He sees himself in her and sympathizes
What role does repetition play in the story?
“The repetition of Tommy’s daily routine emphasizes the monotony of his life and the inescapability of his situation.”
How does Tommy’s relationship with Rosa contribute to his sense of imprisonment?
“Their marriage is loveless and full of conflict
What does the story suggest about dreams and aspirations?
“It highlights the painful reality that many people abandon their dreams and become stuck in lives they never wanted.”
How does Malamud use contrast to emphasize Tommy’s entrapment?
“Tommy occasionally remembers his past hopes and dreams
What is the significance of Tommy’s passivity?
“His unwillingness to take bold action reflects how deeply he has accepted his fate
How does ‘The Prison’ reflect universal themes?
“The story resonates with readers by exploring common fears of regret
How does Malamud create sympathy for Tommy?
“By showing his inner struggles and regrets
What is the lesson readers can take from ‘The Prison’?
“It warns against letting life slip by and making choices that lead to regret
