J. Roth

Introduction to Literature 131

Winter 2001

Study Questions for A Worn Path and Miss Brill

A Worn Path by Eudora Welty, pp. 437-443

• Is Phoenix’s grandson alive or dead? Locate evidence for both conclusions.

• What birds does Phoenix encounter on her journey? What significance are they to her and to the story?

• Discuss the hunter whom Phoenix encounters? How does he treat Phoenix? What is the result of their meeting?

Miss Brill by Katherine Mansfield, pp. 97-101

• Define indirect and direct presentation as they apply to characterization in fiction. Which does Mansfield use in Miss Brill? Is it more or less effective than the other? Please explain.

• What nationality is Miss Brill? What is the setting of the story? The time period? Why are these important?

• Describe the woman in the ermine toque. Of what importance to the story is she?

• What function does Miss Brill’s fur serve in the story? What is the meaning of the final sentence?

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