Topics for Further Study
- Wise Blood features a protagonist who vehemently rejects Christianity to an extreme degree. Many individuals, like Hazel Motes, experience a strong inclination towards holiness that can turn destructive when taken too far. Psychologists frequently examine this phenomenon in cult followers. Investigate a recent cult suicide or massacre, such as Jonestown, the Branch Davidians, or Heaven's Gate, to gain insight into the "cult mentality." Compare the actions of cult members to Hazel Motes' actions in the novel, focusing on the concept of an impulse taken to its extreme.
- Assemble a panel of "specialists" to present their perspectives on the characters' motivations in Wise Blood. This panel should include a psychologist, a clergy member, a business professional, and a community representative. Each "specialist" must speak as an expert in their field and provide examples of the characters' actions to support their viewpoints.
- Hazel Motes and Enoch Emery both view material wealth as a means to achieve their goals. Identify what Hazel and Enoch each acquire and accomplish that symbolizes their prosperity and convinces them that they have "made it." Discuss how people today demonstrate that they have "made it." Be prepared to defend your opinions.
- Create a mask representing one of the characters from Wise Blood, capturing a specific expression from a particular scene in the story. For instance, depict Sabbath Lily Hawks at her most seductive. Be ready to explain the scene and the reasons behind the expression you chose for your character.
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