43 pages • 1-hour read
My Kinsman Major Molineux
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Essay Topics
Hawthorne prefaces the story by providing historical context for the political climate. In what ways does this influence how the rest of the story is read?
Hawthorne tells the story from a third-person omniscient POV. Take note of examples where Hawthorne shares the perspective of a character other than the narrator? What are the benefits of using omniscient narration in this story instead of a third-person limited POV?
Upon Robin’s arrival in the city, he has “bright, cheerful eyes” (2). As the story progresses, does this initial optimism contribute to his internal conflict? If so, how so? If not, why not?
Nathanial Hawthorne is associated with allegorical writing. Does “My Kinsman, Major Molineux” qualify as an allegorical story? Why or why not?
What factors compel Robin to burst into maniacal laughter? Does this outburst suggest that he has now become a part of the barbarism that exists in the city? Why or why not?
At the procession, Robin locks eyes with both the horned man and Molineux. What is the significance of their locking of eyes?
In the end, the stranger encourages Robin to try to “rise in the world, without the help of [his] kinsman, Major Molineux” (16). Does it seem more likely that Robin will stay or go? What factors suggest that he will remain in the city? What factors suggest he will return to the country?
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