The Chrysanthemums
40 pages • 1-hour read
John SteinbeckThe Chrysanthemums
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Essay Topics
Compare the Tinker with Henry Allen. How are they similar? How are they different?
In what senses do the chrysanthemums symbolize Elisa?
Why do you think Steinbeck chose to leave the Tinker without a name? Did this choice enhance the story? Why or why not?
What do you think would have happened if Elisa and Henry went to the prize fights instead of seeing a movie? Do you think Elisa would have enjoyed it? Why or why not?
Explain how the social structures in the 1930s influence how Henry and the Tinker treat Elisa.
What do you think of Steinbeck’s decision to write the story from a third person limited point of view? Would the story be different if it were written in the first person?
Why does Steinbeck refer to the Chrysanthemums in the road as a “dark speck” rather than naming them?
Consider the way Elisa’s mode of dress changes throughout the story. Do you think this reflects her state of mind? Why or why not?
Why does Elisa cry at the end of the story? Why does she hide her tears from her husband?
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