Cathedral Questions and Answers
Cathedral
Setting and conflicts in Raymond Carver's "Cathedral."
In Raymond Carver's "Cathedral," the setting is primarily the narrator's home, which highlights his isolation and narrow perspective. The central conflict arises from the narrator's jealousy and...
Cathedral
What figurative language does Raymond Carver use in "Cathedral" and what effect does it create?
Raymond Carver uses figurative language in "Cathedral" to enhance the story's emotional depth and character dynamics. The narrator's use of slang, such as "lickety-split," adds color and energy to...
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What are three potential thesis statements for "Cathedral"?
Potential thesis statements for "Cathedral" include exploring the importance of technology, the mysterious power of art, and the transformation of the narrator's likability. One thesis could argue...
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Why is the title "Cathedral" relevant to the story?
The title "Cathedral" is relevant as it symbolizes the connection formed between the narrator and the blind man, Robert, through their shared attempt to understand and draw a cathedral. This act...
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Where is the setting for the story "Cathedral"?
The setting of "Cathedral" is primarily the narrator's apartment, where most of the story unfolds as the narrator interacts with his wife's blind friend. The physical location is likely in the...
Cathedral
Character development in Raymond Carver's "Cathedral"
In "Cathedral," the narrator undergoes significant character development. Initially, he is prejudiced and emotionally distant, particularly towards the blind man, Robert. However, as the story...
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What is the irony in "Cathedral"?
The irony in "Cathedral" lies in the unexpected transformation of the narrator. Initially cynical and dismissive of spirituality, he ends up having a profound and imaginative experience with Robert,...
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In Carver's "Cathedral," how does the point of view contribute to the story's effectiveness?
In "Cathedral," the first-person point of view enhances the story's effectiveness by revealing the narrator's personal biases and gradual transformation. Initially, the narrator is sarcastic and...
Cathedral
How are liquor and marijuana depicted in "Cathedral"?
Liquor and marijuana in "Cathedral" serve as tools to relax the narrator, who is initially cynical and tense about Robert's visit. Drinking is a "pastime" for him, helping ease his nerves and opening...
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What are the similarities between "Cathedral" and "Sonny’s Blues"?
Both "Cathedral" and "Sonny's Blues" explore themes of epiphany and understanding through the protagonists' interactions with others' perceived problems. In "Sonny's Blues," the protagonist learns to...
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What is the narrator's name in "Cathedral"?
In Raymond Carver's "Cathedral," the narrator's name is not revealed.
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What does the cathedral symbolize to the blind man and the narrator in paragraph 96?
The cathedral to the blind man and the narrator symbolizes what they do not know, what they are really working towards, and the end of the story finds the reader understanding that he does know,...
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Is the house a metaphor in "Cathedral"?
In "Cathedral," the house serves as a metaphor for the narrator's limited and closed life. His reluctance to connect with others, including his wife and the blind man, contrasts with the openness and...
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In "Cathedral," what prompts the narrator to describe the television scene?
The narrator only begins to describe what he is seeing on television after a number of silent moments, and it is clear that he initially did not want to offer any sign of friendship or openness with...
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What are two symbols found in the short story "Cathedral"?
The two most obvious symbols in "Cathedral" are of cathedrals and blindness. The narrator's inability to describe a cathedral to Robert, and his desire to draw it for him, symbolizes his own lack of...
Cathedral
How to develop a thesis statement on character development in "Cathedral"?
To develop a thesis statement on character development in "Cathedral," focus on the narrator's transformation. Start by brainstorming his traits at different story stages, from initial blindness to...
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What is the significance of only using Robert's name in Raymond Carver's "Cathedral"?
In "Cathedral," the use of only Robert's name highlights his role as the most self-aware character, contrasting with the unnamed narrator and his wife. Carver's minimalist style omits their names to...
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What role does the wife play in Carver's "Cathedral"?
In "Cathedral," the narrator's wife serves primarily as a catalyst for revealing the narrator's self-absorbed nature. Her presence in the story allows the narrator to disclose more about himself...
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What is one significant point in "Cathedral" by Raymond Carver?
The cathedral represents his spiritual awakening.
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What's a good thesis statement for "Cathedral" and "Sonny's Blues"?
Both narrators in "Cathedral" and "Sonny's Blues" undergo a transformation in their character through seeing life through the eyes of another character.
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What happens to "Bub" at the end of "Cathedral" and does cannabis play a role?
At the end of "Cathedral," the narrator experiences a profound change as he connects with the blind man, Robert, by drawing a cathedral together. This activity helps him see beyond his usual cynicism...
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Do you like "Cathedral"? Why?
"Cathedral" was my first experience reading Raymond Carver and one that turned me on to his intense, yet minimalistic style. One of the reasons I like the story so much is that it exemplifies a...
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Who is the antagonist in "Cathedral"?
The antagonist in "Cathedral" is not a traditional character but rather the narrator's own closed-mindedness and lack of empathy. The story focuses on the narrator's transformation as he overcomes...