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HOME BEFORE NIGHT – Hugh Leonard Answer all of the questions - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2013
Question 1
HOME BEFORE NIGHT – Hugh Leonard Answer all of the questions. (a) Describe the occasion when Jack and his parents take a trip around Dublin Bay on the Royal Iris. ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:HOME BEFORE NIGHT – Hugh Leonard Answer all of the questions - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2013
Step 1
Describe the occasion when Jack and his parents take a trip around Dublin Bay on the Royal Iris.
Answer
During the trip around Dublin Bay on the Royal Iris, tensions run high due to Jack's mother's drinking. As she dances with another passenger, Jack's father becomes enraged over a dispute during disembarkation, highlighting a chaotic family dynamic. The incident escalates, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere where Jack feels alienated, especially when he sees a woman giving money to his mother. This moment underscores the family’s struggles and Jack's feelings of abandonment.
Step 2
What is your opinion of Jack's adoptive mother, Margaret?
Answer
Jack’s adoptive mother, Margaret, is portrayed as a complex figure who exhibits both kindness and cruelty. While she offers Jack a good upbringing, her strictness can be overwhelming. Margaret's pride in Jack's scholarship at Presentation Brothers' School reflects her desire for him to succeed, yet her cynicism surfaces when she criticizes him and imposes high expectations. This duality shapes Jack's view of her as both nurturing and harsh, contributing to his internal conflicts.
Step 3
Give one reason why you did or did not enjoy studying Hugh Leonard’s novel, Home Before Night.
Answer
I found studying Hugh Leonard's novel, Home Before Night, to be a rewarding experience. The rich character development, particularly of Jack and his family, brought the narrative to life. Leonard's exploration of identity and belonging resonated with me, making it not only an academic pursuit but also a personal journey. The vivid imagery used in depicting Jack's childhood struggles drew me into the story, making it relatable and impactful.
Step 4
‘Jack’s childhood and youth are mostly happy.’ Do you agree with the above statement? Give reasons for your answer, based on your knowledge of the text.
Answer
While Jack’s childhood had moments of happiness, it is overshadowed by distressing events. His mother’s behavior, characterized by alcohol-fueled incidents and familial strife, creates an unsettling backdrop that complicates his happiness. Jack’s reflections reveal a yearning for a more stable and loving environment, suggesting that his youth, rather than being mostly happy, is marked by a struggle between fleeting moments of joy and deeper familial turmoil.
Step 5
Write a piece, beginning with one of the following statements: I think Ireland today is very different from the Ireland of Jack's youth.
Answer
I think Ireland today is very different from the Ireland of Jack’s youth. Modern Ireland is characterized by technological advancements and a more open societal structure, contrasting starkly with the conservative and often insular community Jack experienced. While Jack's world was filled with rigid expectations and limited opportunities, today’s youth are encouraged to explore diverse cultures and ideas, reflecting a more progressive ethos that fosters individual freedom and expression.
Step 6
Imagine you are Jack, now an old man. Write a letter to one of your childhood friends in which you comment on some of the important events of your youth.
Answer
Dear Friend,
As I reminisce about our youth, memories come flooding back—the laughter, the adventures, and yes, the challenges. I recall the day we spent sailing in Dublin Bay, an escape from the chaos at home, where my mother’s drinking often cast a shadow over our lives. I fondly remember our playful arguments and shared dreams, and how we relied on each other for support when times were tough. It’s these moments that shaped who we are today. I hope to hear from you soon so we can reminisce together.
Warm regards, Jack