Discussion Outline: Beloved RDB 3/1/07 Ashley

Is there a hero? If so who is it, what traits does this hero possess, what do they lack?

• No: Rachel, Mauro
• Yes: Amanda (Pecola), Chetna? (not stated/ Pecola or Claudia), Palavi (Claudia, but flawed) Eric (Pecola)

Does Pecola’s role as a scapegoat and burden-bearer for the community cause her to take on heroic qualities, how does her acceptance of this role detract from her heroism?

• Mary (measuring stick), Rachel (inablility to rise above), Amanda (Pec. is a reminder of the community’s sins), Chetna (burden)

How does the awareness of these social injustices affect the character’s psyche, are any of the characters ignorant of this situation? If not, why do they choose to succumb?

• Brad (choose your own path), Law (cognizance) Meghan S (need to find a place)

Is the flawed perception of perfect beauty innate? If so, why, what social causes are at the root of this judging? Does this still exist or has evolving ideas of beauty helped this? What personal experiences have you witnessed this in yourself or others? Does beauty really make life easier?

• Mary (beauty standards), Meghan G (perceptions), Eric (standards, we are all beautiful), Liz (still a problem) Meghan S (judging)
• Amanda (kindergarten) Alex (eyes)

Why do the characters misdirect their aggression and frustration, how does this isolate them and what negative effects does it have on the community? Are the “respectable” colored women to be admired or despised?

• Amanda (isolation), Garrison (misdirection) Prianka (misguided hate)

Are any of these characters truly happy? Is happiness even an option for them? Which is worse, reality or a lie (relating to Pecola), or perhaps even death?

• Palavi, Mary (escape)

Is ANY love or compassion present in this novel, or is each character only concerned for themselves?

• Alex (need for love) Liz (Claudia and Frieda try and fail)

Was it the soil or the seed themselves that prevented the “marigolds” from growing? How were they “planted too deep?”

How does Morrison connect to the themes of separateness and unity? Can you feel the connection between the PROSE and the PASSION, what effect does this have?