Student Question
In Red Scarf Girl, why did Teacher Zhang want Ji-li to attend a school meeting?
Quick answer:
Teacher Zhang wanted Ji-li to attend a school meeting organized by the Red Guard Committee to discuss a Class Education Exhibition aimed at exposing class enemies and highlighting societal improvements. Ji-li was chosen for her academic and political excellence, including her excellent Mandarin and speech contest wins. Despite her family's undesirable history, Teacher Zhang believed in her potential to rise above it, emphasizing her bravery and self-esteem as qualities to overcome life's difficulties.
The purpose of the meeting, which was scheduled by the school's Red Guard Committee, was to discuss a planned Class Education Exhibition to "expose the class enemies' evil and remind (them) of the misery of the old society and (their) happiness today". Students selected to attend were "handpicked for both academic and political excellence". Teacher Zhang feels that Ji-li would be perfect to represent the class because of her excellent Mandarin and because she has won several speech contests. Although he knows about her family's undesirable history, he refers to the Revolutionary philosophy, pointing out that, as an "educable child", Ji-li can rise above her lineage and choose her own future. He tells Ji-li that because she has self-esteem and always tries to excel, he believes she is "brave enough to face and eventually overcome the difficulties of life". Unaware at this point that she is being brainwashed, but knowing the trouble this could cause for her family, Ji-li is confused, but, touched by Teacher Zhang's sincerity, agrees to do the job (Chapter 12).
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.