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1. (a) Describe two effects of the economic crash evident in the novel, The Spinning Heart - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2019
Question 1
1. (a) Describe two effects of the economic crash evident in the novel, The Spinning Heart. (b) Identify one challenge Bobby Mahon faces after the economic crash an... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) Describe two effects of the economic crash evident in the novel, The Spinning Heart - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2019
Step 1
Describe two effects of the economic crash evident in the novel, The Spinning Heart.
Answer
The economic crash in The Spinning Heart has significant effects on the characters and the community.
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Unemployment and Financial Strain: Many characters in the novel are depicted as facing unemployment, which leads to financial difficulties and a loss of identity. This is particularly evident with construction workers who are left jobless and without support, resulting in a feeling of despair and upheaval in their lives.
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Social Fragmentation: The economic downturn also causes a rift in social relationships. Friends and family members struggle to support each other, leading to tensions and isolation. As people face their own hardships, community ties weaken, and the shared experiences of struggle transform into personal battles.
Step 2
Identify one challenge Bobby Mahon faces after the economic crash and explain how he responds to this challenge. Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
Bobby Mahon faces the challenge of job insecurity following the economic crash.
He is deeply affected by the loss of his construction job, which poses a threat not only to his financial stability but also to his self-worth. In response, Bobby actively seeks alternative employment, even taking on menial jobs to support himself and his family.
Additionally, he grapples with feelings of inadequacy but is determined to rise above his circumstances, showcasing resilience and adaptability amid the chaos of the economic fallout.
Step 3
Explain the main reason why you were or were not satisfied with how the novel ended for Bobby Mahon.
Answer
The conclusion of the novel leaves much to ponder regarding Bobby Mahon's future.
While some may find satisfaction in his journey towards self-acceptance and resilience, others might feel unresolved due to his uncertain status at the end. The ambiguity around Bobby's relationships, particularly with Triona and his own father, suggests that while he has faced his challenges, the road ahead is still fraught with difficulties. This open-endedness might be viewed as frustrating for readers seeking closure, yet it also reflects the ongoing nature of personal struggle in the wake of hardship.