Word choice - Assisi

Question 1

Dwarf

Answer 1

• has connotations of disability and smallness which suggests the beggar has an irregular physical appearance that is striking and noticeable to the speaker
• makes the reader feel sympathy for the beggar

Question 2

Tiny, Twisted

Answer 2

• has connotations of deformity and distortion
• this suggests the beggars legs are unable to support his body and he is sitting at an awkward angle that could be painful
• this develops the readers sympathy for the beggar

Question 3

Cleverness

Answer 3

• has connotations of intelligence and being smart
• which suggests MacCaig realises that the church is slyly taking advantage by making lots of money from the fancy church.
• MacCaig’s tone here is sarcastic and mocking

Question 4

Outside

Answer 4

• has connotations of rejection and unwelcome
• this suggests the beggar is exiled from the church and also ignored by society.