The Midwife's Apprentice

by Karen Cushman

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Topics for Discussion

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1. Does Alyce possess a moral right to seek revenge on those who have humiliated her? If so, to what extent? Is seeking personal vengeance acceptable in today's world? If yes, under what specific circumstances and conditions?

2. Should Alyce object to the dishonest practices, or even cheating, of the innkeeper's wife? Should she strive to be honest with customers despite Jennet's example? Is Jennet's reasoning for her deceitful trade valid? Would we accept such an explanation today for goods or services intentionally shorted by the seller?

3. Does the midwife have a moral duty to assist expectant mothers who cannot afford her fees? How does her attitude compare to the attitudes of today's healthcare professionals? How do current insurance practices influence the attitudes of doctors and nurses?

4. What are the strengths of contemporary midwifery? In which areas might it offer advantages over traditional obstetrics?

5. Can a person's treatment of animals reflect their character? Is it possible to mistreat animals yet still be considered a decent person?

6. What factors contribute to self-esteem in young people? Rank the factors, qualities, beliefs, and circumstances in order of importance and defend your choices. This activity could be done in small groups, with two groups pairing off to debate their conclusions.

7. If you were in Alyce's position at the end of the book, would you choose her course of action? If not, what would you have done and why?

8. How is cleanliness connected to one's self-worth? Discuss Alyce's self-image in relation to both cleanliness and dirtiness. Is there a link between her evolving self-image and her level of cleanliness?

9. How has the concept of personal hygiene evolved over the centuries? Which cultures and religions have assigned different values to personal hygiene, and why? Do people today feel degraded if they are dirty? If so, is this response rational, habitual, socialized, or a combination of these?

10. Discuss the survival skills of those who are dispossessed. How would someone survive in the Middle Ages without a home, money, or food? Compare and contrast this with survival in modern America under the same conditions. Was there any "social safety net" in the Middle Ages? Considering these scenarios, compare and contrast their effects on mental states, self-worth, and psychological stability.

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