- 1. Borstal Boy by Brendan Behan is a poignant memoir that chronicles the author's experiences as a young boy in a borstal, a type of youth detention center, in Ireland during the early 20th century. The narrative is rich with Behan's characteristic wit and humor, painting a vivid picture of his upbringing in a politically charged environment steeped in the struggle for Irish independence. Through his candid and often humorous storytelling, Behan explores themes of rebellion, identity, and the complexities of adolescence, all while seeking to find a place within a society that often felt oppressive. The book offers not only a personal account of his time spent in incarceration but also serves as a reflection on the broader societal issues of the time, including nationalism, class disparity, and the impact of war on youth. Behan's unique voice and literary style make Borstal Boy a significant work in Irish literature, capturing the tumultuous journey of a boy on the cusp of manhood, struggling to navigate his beliefs and circumstances amid a backdrop of conflict and personal trials.
What is the narrative perspective of 'Borstal Boy'?
A) Third-person limited
B) Third-person omniscient
C) Second-person
D) First-person
- 2. How does Behan's attitude toward his English captors evolve?
A) He remains completely indifferent
B) He finds humanity and common ground with them
C) His hatred for them intensifies
D) He becomes subservient to them
- 3. What literary genre best describes 'Borstal Boy'?
A) Historical fiction
B) Science fiction
C) Autobiographical novel
D) Detective mystery
- 4. Besides his Republican ideals, what other major aspect of Behan's identity is central to the book?
A) His working-class background
B) His foreign ancestry
C) His aristocratic lineage
D) His university education
- 5. What talent does Behan use to gain respect and camaraderie in borstal?
A) His artistic ability
B) His fighting skills
C) His storytelling and singing
D) His athletic prowess
- 6. What ultimately happens to Behan's dogmatic IRA beliefs during his incarceration?
A) They are challenged and become more nuanced
B) They are completely abandoned
C) They are strengthened and confirmed
D) They are replaced by religious faith
- 7. Which literary device is frequently used in the dialogue?
A) Extensive Latin quotations
B) Complex poetic meter
C) Formal rhetoric
D) Vernacular and slang
- 8. What is the significance of the book's title?
A) It is the name of a famous prison guard
B) It highlights his identity as defined by the institution
C) It is the code name for his IRA operation
D) It is a place he dreamed of escaping to
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