Student Question

What is the meaning of the title "The Homecoming"?

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The title "The Homecoming" is ironic because the family depicted is highly dysfunctional, marked by strife, animosity, manipulation, greed, and deceit. Despite living under one roof, the characters are alienated and lonely, unable to create a true home environment. The title suggests a return to something comforting and familiar, but the reality is the opposite, highlighting the stark contrast between the ideal of a homecoming and the family's troubled dynamics.

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The title is an ironic one, as the dysfunctional family does not make a "home." There is constant strife and animosity between characters, along with manipulation, greed, and lying. This is no home, to be sure, so the title The Homecoming is ironic in that this family is so dysfunctional and odd that they couldn't possibly make a true "home." Although these characters live under one roof, they are alienated and lonely.

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