Borstal Boy by Brendan Behan
- 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 omniscient
B) Second-person
C) Third-person limited
D) First-person
- 2. How does Behan's attitude toward his English captors evolve?
A) He remains completely indifferent
B) His hatred for them intensifies
C) He finds humanity and common ground with them
D) He becomes subservient to them
- 3. What literary genre best describes 'Borstal Boy'?
A) Detective mystery
B) Science fiction
C) Historical fiction
D) Autobiographical novel
- 4. Besides his Republican ideals, what other major aspect of Behan's identity is central to the book?
A) His foreign ancestry
B) His working-class background
C) His aristocratic lineage
D) His university education
- 5. What talent does Behan use to gain respect and camaraderie in borstal?
A) His storytelling and singing
B) His artistic ability
C) His fighting skills
D) His athletic prowess
- 6. What ultimately happens to Behan's dogmatic IRA beliefs during his incarceration?
A) They are strengthened and confirmed
B) They are completely abandoned
C) They are challenged and become more nuanced
D) They are replaced by religious faith
- 7. Which literary device is frequently used in the dialogue?
A) Vernacular and slang
B) Complex poetic meter
C) Formal rhetoric
D) Extensive Latin quotations
- 8. What is the significance of the book's title?
A) It is a place he dreamed of escaping to
B) It highlights his identity as defined by the institution
C) It is the name of a famous prison guard
D) It is the code name for his IRA operation
|