Analysis of Characters and Themes in 'Spunk'

Describe the character of Spunk. How does his demeanor and actions influence the other characters in the story?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

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CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Analyze the relationship between Spunk and Joe Kanty. How does Hurston characterize their rivalry, and what does it reveal about their personalities?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Identify the central conflict in 'Spunk.' How does Hurston build tension throughout the story, and how is the conflict ultimately resolved?

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CCSS.RL.2.10

CCSS.RL.2.2

CCSS.RL.2.3

CCSS.RL.4.3

CCSS.RL.4.4

Discuss the theme of justice and revenge in the story. Do you think the resolution is justified, or are there other ways the conflict could have been resolved?

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Explore the symbolism of Spunk's borrowed clothes. What do they represent, and how do they affect his perception of himself and others?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

Analyze the significance of the snake in the story. How does Hurston use the snake as a symbol, and what does it foreshadow?

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CCSS.RL.1.10

CCSS.RL.2.2

CCSS.RL.3.2

CCSS.RL.K.5

Discuss the theme of power dynamics, particularly in relation to masculinity, in 'Spunk.' How do Spunk and Joe assert their power over others, and what are the consequences?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

How does the concept of bravery intersect with notions of masculinity in the story? Do you think Spunk's actions make him brave, or are there other qualities at play?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

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Explore the motivations of the characters in 'Spunk.' What drives Spunk, Joe Kanty, Lena, and Elijah Mosley to act the way they do?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

How do the characters' desires and fears influence their decisions and interactions with one another?

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CCSS.RL.11-12.3

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3