in depth analysis of Marigolds

• What insights might we gain from Miss Lottie's perspective in "Marigolds"?

  Deeper understanding of her motivations for growing the marigolds and her experiences of poverty
• What is the setting of the short story "Marigolds"?

  Rural Maryland during the Great Depression
• Who is the narrator of "Marigolds"?

  Lizabeth
• What is the significance of Lizabeth's encounter with Miss Lottie's marigold garden?

  It highlights the contrast between beauty and the harshness of her impoverished life
• What destructive behavior does Lizabeth exhibit towards the marigolds?

  She destroys Miss Lottie's marigold garden
• What realization does Lizabeth come to after her destructive act?

  She feels guilt and understands the significance of beauty
• How does the setting of the Great Depression contribute to the story's themes?

  It emphasizes the contrast between the beauty of the marigolds and the surrounding poverty
• What key aspect of Lizabeth's character is highlighted in the story?

  Her coming of age
• What inner conflict does Lizabeth experience?

  She struggles with understanding her emotions and actions
• How does Lizabeth's narration change as she reflects on her past?

  She reflects with newfound wisdom as an adult
• Who is Miss Lottie in "Marigolds"?


  An old, poor woman who owns the marigold garden
• What do the marigolds symbolize in the story?

  Beauty, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity
• What does the dust symbolize in "Marigolds"?

  Poverty and bleakness of the Depression-era setting
• How does Lizabeth's destruction of the marigolds relate to her loss of innocence?

  It marks a transition from childhood innocence to a deeper understanding of empathy
• What literary device is primarily used in "Marigolds" to convey the story's themes?


  Symbolism
• How does the use of vivid imagery enhance the story?

  It paints a clear picture of the setting and characters, enhancing emotional depth
• What role does foreshadowing play in "Marigolds"?


  It hints at the impending destruction of the marigolds
• How does the juxtaposition in "Marigolds" contribute to the story?

  It emphasizes the contrast between the beautiful marigolds and the bleak surroundings
• What is the significance of the metaphor describing the marigolds?

  It highlights their beauty as a "brilliant splash of sunny yellow" in a "gray dust bowl"
• How does the historical context of the Great Depression influence the characters in "Marigolds"?

  It portrays the economic hardship and struggles faced by the characters
• How does the racial context affect the story's themes?

  It adds a layer of racial inequality to the characters' economic struggles
• What social dynamics are reflected in the community's reaction to Miss Lottie?

  They reflect the social norms and prejudices of the time
• How do gender roles play a part in the story?

  They subtly touch on the expectations placed on women during the Great Depression
• How does the Great Depression setting enhance the story's exploration of beauty and hope?


  It amplifies the significance of the marigolds by contrasting their beauty with the widespread poverty and hardship
• What does the presence of the marigolds signify in the context of the Great Depression?

  They represent a source of beauty and hope amidst the surrounding despair
• How does Lizabeth's character reflect the themes of the story?

  Her growth from impulsive child to reflective adult embodies the themes of coming of age and understanding beauty