Topics for Further Study
- Investigate the Spanish Civil War and the significant role played by international volunteers. Explore their countries of origin and the reasons they chose to engage in such perilous service.
- Compare Charles's college experiences to your own educational journey. Compose an essay highlighting both the similarities and differences.
- Analyze how Sebastian's alcoholism is portrayed and addressed in the novel. Consider whether societal attitudes towards drinking have evolved since then. Examine how the Flyte family deals with Sebastian's drinking issues and compare this to contemporary approaches.
- If possible, interview someone who lived through the Great Depression, whether in the United States or elsewhere. Discover what life was like during that time and how it contrasts with modern life. If an interview is not feasible, read first-hand accounts from the era and write an essay detailing the lifestyle of people during the Depression.
- When Sebastian seeks to escape his family, he heads to the Middle East and North Africa. Conversely, when Charles Ryder leaves his wife to focus on painting and drawing for two years, he travels to Mexico and Central America. Why do you think each character chose their respective destinations? Reflect on where you would go if you needed to take a break from your current life.
- Consider the transatlantic voyage Charles and Celia undertake from New York to London. Imagine the experience of traveling with a group of strangers on a ship that takes several days to reach Europe. Create a series of diary entries as if you were Charles or Celia, describing the journey, your emotions, and experiences. Conduct some historical research to ensure your entries are accurate and detailed.
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