Ideas for Reports and Papers
1. Mark Twain is among the many authors who have penned "boys' books." How does Penrod stand up against Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn? Why do Twain's novels hold greater fame?
2. The unnamed town where Penrod resides is depicted with enough detail to offer a vivid picture of life there. In what ways is Penrod's world similar to the place where you grew up? How does it differ?
3. In Penrod, we encounter male and female characters of various ages. Have the roles of men and women evolved since Tarkington's era? If they have, in what ways?
4. Modern critics agree that Tarkington's portrayal of Herman, Verman, and their family is racist. Examine Tarkington's representation of black characters in Penrod.
5. Georgie Bassett seems to take pride in being labeled a gentleman, while Penrod rebuffs anyone who even hints at calling him one. What does it truly mean to be a "Little Gentleman" in Penrod's world? How would boys today need to act to earn this title?
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