61 pages 2 hours read

Margaret Laurence

A Bird in the House

Fiction | Short Story Collection | Adult | Published in 1974

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Essay Topics

1.

Analyze Margaret Laurence’s portrayal of Piquette. Why might her depiction of cultural or social representation be considered problematic? What purpose does it serve?

2.

Investigate the concept of true love that Vanessa witnesses in her family. What is “true love” in this context? How do Vanessa’s grandparents’ and parents’ relationships shape her understanding of the phrase?

3.

Discuss Vanessa’s disdain for inauthenticity. What are the origins of this aversion, and how is it reflected in her interactions with others? What message about inauthenticity is the author conveying through Vanessa’s character?

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