Critical Thinking Question Answers - Miguel deJesus

How does the "incident" change Gene's perspective of the nature of the relationship between himself and Finny?
The “incident” has changed the relationship between Gene and Phineas because there is tension between the two of them. Both of them can not seem to get over the fact that Phineas is now injured and can no longer play sports. Reason being is because Gene was the one who pushed Phineas off of the tree, resulting in the incident. There is tension because every time they bring up the “incident” Gene tells Phineas that he did it, but Phineas just simply refuses to believe it. They have gotten more emotional with one another ever since the “incident” happened. Whether is may be about the choice of activities that the two of them choose to participate in, or just regular everyday conversations. Gene realizes the harm this has done to their friendship, and is constantly feeling bad about it. Gene believes that he has to be a part of Phineas, and that Phineas has to live his athletic dreams through Gene since he can linger play sports. One thing is evident in their friendship, and is something that has not changed. The two of them depend on each other and will always be there for one another.
What is it about Finny that Gene so greatly admires about him? How does his admiration of Finny affect himself? and in what ways? 
Gene admires his best friend Phineas because of his athletic talents, and his strong personality. To Gene, Phineas is unique, in a sense that not many people can do the athletic things that Phineas is capable of doing, and his personality can really connect with people. Phineas is one of the most talented athletes Devon had ever had, and has already broken some of the school records. Gene strongly admires Phineas for that and hopes one day that he may be able to do the same athletically wise. Phineas has a way of getting away with certain things and talking people into doing things that they may not normally do. He has a way with getting through to people and getting what he wants from them. Gene believes that he has to be like Finny(Phineas), and be able to do the things that he does, such as be good at sports. Almost as if he has to be a part of him.Gene may tend to focus on Phineas’ personality more than his own. He feels that Phineas is superior to him. Often Gene forgets that he too, is talented and unique in his own way.

Critical Thinking Question Answers - Jason de Castro

While authors that choose World War 2 as the setting of a story usually write about the war itself or how the war affected someone directly, John Knowles sets A Separate Peace in this time frame but barely shows any direct or relevant connection between the characters and the war. What is he trying to accomplish by doing so?

By setting the story into the time of World War 2, while barely connecting it to any of the characters directly, the author is sending a message. Throughout the book the characters are in a constant struggle, even though they are not in the war. It is almost as if the characters are having their own personal war going on, not only between each other but inside themselves as well. "my war ended before I even put on a uniform; I was on active duty all my time at school; I killed my enemy there." (Knowles, 204) It is in this statement (Gene is speaking) that Gene implies that the true enemy wasn't anyone that he would meet on the battlefield as he went to war, but inside himself. John Knowles is trying to express that there is more to conflict than just war, and that less dramatic conflicts occur that can be equally if not more damaging to one's self as well as others. Internal conflict for example, is the one that Gene personally struggled with for the duration of his time spent at Devon Academy. Therefore, the ongoing war of World War 2 is set to contrast the conflict that the adolescents of Devon themselves struggled with.

When comparing Gene's one-sided envy dominating his relationship with Finny prior to the fall, in contrast to the codependency between them after the fall, which is the more dangerous of the two? (That is, what is most damaging or unhealthy in regards to relationships) and why?

In my opinion both types of relationships are equally dangerous; the only difference between the two is that the first one appears to be more malicious. Gene envied Finny for the longest time, and his jealousy overpowered and consumed him for a slight moment in which he impulsively pushed Finny out of the tree, ending his athletic career forever and crushing his spirit. Afterwards, the codependency began as Finny coped with the psychological pain of having his greatest dreams and goals in life abruptly ended by living through Gene. Gene on the other hand, was addicted to Finny's very presence. He was obsessed with Finny and Finny's personality, and lost himself in order to become more like his greatest idol. The reason they are both equally damaging, is because in both cases, although the intention varies slightly, the people involved lose themselves amidst the jealousy or codependency. Gene took for granted his own gifts and talents and the person he was when he decided he resented Finny for his unique talents. Finny on the other hand handed himself over to Gene, his desire and passion through the codependency that he and Gene shared. It was as if Finny had given on himself and needed to live through Gene to be content.

Answers to two Critical Questions - Cynthia Hsieh (:

Although the story takes place in a desolate school seemingly far away from the influence of war, different types of conflict do exist. What are the different kinds of conflicts or struggles taking place? and between whom?

There are many different types of conflict present in the school, such as the conflict of holding on the boys childhood. Despite being surrounded by the war, during the summer session the boys are all about having fun through their little activity of jumping off the tree. Gene and Finny know that enrolling into the war is in their future and at some point it is visible but they just brush it off and get back to their fun and games. Also the conflict of whether or not the friendship between Finny and Gene is real; this is especially seen in the summer session as Gene starts to doubt Finny’s actions. He believes that Finny is trying to take his place and become the best in both sports and academics. The rivalry presence is in the air due to the war going on and therefore resulting in double guessing the boys friendship.

Between the sharp contrast of the easygoing atmosphere of the "Summer Session" to the rather disciplined, strict atmosphere of the "Winter Session", what is the author trying to symbolize?

            As the plot progresses, the readers see the weather change. Summer brings the essence of fun and relaxing times which is portrayed in the boy’s fun and games. As the summer begins to end, a tragic “accident” occurs which brings a harsh halt to the summer fun, leading right into winter where the more difficult and more serious content of the book happens. One could say the author is using the seasons as an indicator of what a certain section is going to be like. Winter usually gives the feeling of cold, painful and much more serious than summer, this could be why the second injury and death of Finny happens during the winter time.

Leizel's Crtical Thinking Question Answers

Why is it that Finny continues to support his theory of the war being a conspiracy? Why does Gene allow himself to be taken up in Finny's illusion of peace?

Finny is a teenager residing in the suburbs of New England. Part of being a teenager, especially in his surroundings, is the sense of invincibility and immortality. To him, there are no real problems or issues that he cannot overcome. Life is carefree. Therefore, the notion of war, a problem of epic proportions, is to Finny, unbelievable. Finny lives in his own created fantasy world, and here, he is happy and does not have to be aware of the harsh reality that is war.

Finny’s best friend, Gene, is also consumed in this illusion. Part of the reason why Gene takes up this notion is because of Finny’s dominating and convincing personality. Apart from this, Gene also believes this for the same reason as Finny. To think that the war is a conspiracy is a simplistic, non-stressful thought to believe. Therefore, the two adolescent boys, with this life changing event at hand, have decided to take the easier path.

               

While authors that choose World War 2 as the setting of a story usually write about the war itself or how the war affected someone directly, John Knowles sets A Separate Peace in this time frame but barely shows any direct or relevant connection between the characters and the war. What is he trying to accomplish by doing so?

World War II is in fact important to the novel. This story is about two adolescent boys on the verge of manhood and trying to find their place in society. There is nothing like a war that will push the journey of these two boys to extremes. Therefore, it adds another exciting and dramatic dimension. As well, the theme of war is significant in that it is used to draw parallels with the struggles that the boys face. The boys, who are in an environment that is secluded from the war, are also trying to find an inner sense of peace. As the story progresses and the characters develop, war takes a more prominent role such as when boys from the school are enlisted in the military. In the end of the story, the army settles a base at the school, a place which was once war free. That final feeling and image that readers are left with when the war encroaches and takes over the school is very powerful. For this reason, the theme of war is vital to the novel and makes it a timeless classic.

Media - Cynthia Hsieh

has already been handed in (:

Character Analysis (Section 4) - Jason de Castro

Gene Forrester

           I, Gene believe that I am a quiet and intellectual human being. It's common knowledge really, as everyone knows, but I love to read. I've been described as introverted by a few of my classmates, but I wouldn't call myself that. I take school very seriously, and grades are of great importance to me, because I need good grades to get into a good college, and perhaps gain a scholarship of some sort. I also pride myself in my high academic achievements because I have to admit, I am very competitive; and this doesn't only apply to academics. My competitive nature is probably the main reason why I envy Finny so much. In a lot of ways, my relationship with Finny brought out the worst in me, because I so adored and loathed who Finny was that I forgot to cherish who I was and I lost myself in the process. Most people don't know it, because I scarcely show it outright, but I am a very emotional person. This can be good sometimes, but a lot of the times it is bad, because sometimes my emotions get the better of me and I say or do something without thinking. The fact that I tend to act impulsively does not help this because I often end up doing something or saying something I regret. Most of the time I mean well but there are times when I think not so kindly thoughts towards another person. "Everyone could hear, couldn't they? the derangement in his voice." (Knowles, 174)

            Some people have said that I'm pessimistic, but that's because I think that if you don't expect positive results, then you will never be disappointed. I know that I tend to think the worst of someone when analyzing their motives but that's because I know what I feel inside, and if I'm feeling or thinking evil thoughts, then I'm probably not the only one doing so. "He's enjoying this, I thought bitterly" (Knowles, 168) This negative mindset towards human beings  general causes me to come off as antisocial. It's not that I like being that way, but I just don't connect with other people the way Finny does. That's one of the reasons I admire Finny, because Finny is someone who can make anyone feel comfortable just by talking to them-something I will never be able to do. I have a tendency to overanalyze things, and as a result become fearful and insecure. "but you're the nervous type, you know, and I thought maybe your imagination got a little inflamed up there in Vermont." (Knowles, 163) Even when there is nothing wrong, I often fabricate a problem or a wrong that does not exist which is a very bad habit of mine.

Phineas (Finny)

            What do I think of myself? Well I'm just like any other teenage boy really. I like to have fun, joke around, and hang out with friends. Honestly, I just like being around people, period. I guess I'm competitive, but more-so for the love of competition and self-achievement rather than the ego or sense of accomplishment some people get from beating others. I believe that achievement is something that should be for you and no one else. For example, if you set a new record then it is not something to brag about-it should be enough for you knowing that you achieved something. I've been called an athlete by many of my peers and have been complimented on my balance, hand-eye co-ordination and just natural talent that I apparently have when it comes to anything athletic related. "You had better balance than anyone in the school." (Knowles, 169) Whether this is true or not, I do know that I love sports, and any games where the spirit of competition can prosper. With this passion I hope one day to participate in the Olympics. Although I love competition, I hate fighting and will do whatever I can to disarm a situation. "the next thing anyone knew you'd be over with the Germans or the Japs, asking if they'd like to field a baseball team against our side."(Knowles, 190) I've been told that I give off a confident and yet approachable vibe, but I believe everyone is approachable and everyone should be confident because everyone has different gifts and talents to offer.

             I try to always hope for the best, and maintain a positive attitude about everything that happens-after all, there's always a silver lining in any situation. For some reason, when I talk, people listen which is fine by me because I'm always coming up with new ideas and notions which I share with my friends. I've also talked my way out of many situations where I otherwise might have gotten into trouble. The only explanation I have for that is I articulated my opinion honestly, without any deceitful intentions-you can't go wrong with honesty. Needless to say, I dislike lying. I tend to think the best of people because I believe, by nature that people are generally good and therefore should be given the benefit of the doubt. "How do you expect him to remember?" (Knowles, 171) With that said, I strongly believe in trust, especially of people that are close to you. "But I do believe- it's important after all for me to believe you."(Knowles, 163) Even if you suspect wrongdoing of another person, give them the benefit of doubt, more-so if you trust them. "It was just some kind of blind impulse you had in the tree there, you didn't know what you were doing. Was that it?" (Knowles, 191) I tend to approach life with pure joy and enthusiasm with everything I do, mostly because I think life is much more bearable if you're living rather than simply being alive. I've been asked how I always appear to be so full of energy, and so happy all the time. Truth is, I have a habit of running away from what I know is the truth. Some might say this to be denial, or simply being naive, but ignorance is bliss and there are some things I would just rather not think or talk about even if it means I have to pretend those things do not exist. "Oh I guess I always knew, but I didn't have to admit it. (Knowles, 163)

Brinker Hadley

            My name is Brinker Hadley, and I am a leader. I voice my opinions based on justice, and will do anything and everything in my power to see that justice always prevails. "Here's one soldier our side has already lost. We've got to find out what happened." (Knowles, 168) Being the class president, I am everything a good leader needs to be. I'm charismatic, orderly, law abiding and very organized. I'm confident in my own abilities, although some perceive my confidence as arrogance or cockiness which I strongly resent. The fact that I will do anything to defend or put into action my own ideas leads others to believe that I am stubborn, but I like to think of it as perseverance. I will admit though that once I get hold of an idea, it is hard to convince me that I am wrong. I've been told a few times that I'm insensitive, but I don't believe in "beating around the bush", I like to be direct. "What's everybody beating around the bush for? He's crippled and that's that." (Knowles, 160)

           According to my peers, my voice radiates power and authority, which I strongly take pride in. "his voice tried for a hard compromise, full of warning" (Knowles, 171) I know how to use any resources that I have at my disposal, and some may call this character trait manipulative. "You always did take me for a fool, didn't you? But I'm no fool any more." (Knowles, 176) However, I disagree because I am simply resourceful, and sometimes you have to work with what you've got. Although I come off as a very serious and cold person, really I'm as friendly and playful as the next person. I seek companionship and other's company because, after all what is a leader without followers?  

Contemporary Relevance by Miguel De Jesus

The Tale Of Two Friends:

Phineas is now dead, but who is too blame for all this? Is it Gene, his schoolmates, was it doctor Stanpole, or was it himself? Actually, no one is to blame for the death of Phineas. Phineas’ death was a tragedy and a most utterly surprise. Phineas passed away during an operation on his broken leg because as the doctor was moving the bone, bone marrow escaped causing severe damage. Given this, the bone marrow went into the bloodstream causing his heart to stop. It really is upsetting whenever someone passes away, especially a young one. Death can not be avoided as it is a part of life, and therefore death should be accepted which is a key aspect of moving forward.

When Phineas died, not only was his life lost, but Gene lost a best friend that day and someone he depended on. Gene is already questioning his identity, and the person who he assumed that he was destined to be a part of, is now dead, and leaving Gene in disbelief. Although Gene is broken hearted about the death of his friend, he learns that in order to go on with is life, he must move on. Gene will always remember Phineas in a positive and an admiring way. Gene states that nobody ever had the type of personality Phineas had. “Phineas alone had escaped this. He possessed an extra vigour, a heightened confidence in himself, a serene capacity for affection which saved him. Nothing as he was growing up at home, nothing at Devon, nothing even about the war had broken his harmonious and natural unity. So as last I had.” Phineas has taught Gene life lessons and to overcome his fears, not being afraid to step out of his comfort


zone.

Was the surgery the cause of the death or was it the two times Phineas fell and broke his leg? Yes the reader may interpret it as being Gene’s fault for pushing Phineas off the tree, and causing him to break his leg in the first place. One may also assume that it was several people’s fault including Phineas himself because no one caused him to fall from the stairs as it was an accident. Others may interpret it as the doctor’s fault, for possibly making a mistake during the operation. This may be the case at certain parts of the book, but after reading the book, the general thought is, it was not one person to blame for the death of Phineas because it was a series of unfortunate events that occurred. Life is unpredictable and things happen for a reason, even though they may be quite hard to comprehend at times. Going through hardships and struggles is a part of life, and understanding that at times people can not always control the outcome of the situation. For instance the leak of the bone marrow, was not Dr. Stanpole’s fault, it was just something that happened.

In everyday life, people get hurt, whether it may be a fracture or death, it happens regardless in society. The problem is how people cope with it. Of course it is never an easy thing to deal with and emotions are overflowing. Everyday you hear about people dying or natural disasters occurring all over the world, and it has effected a great number of people. People get depressed and a great deal of sadness come over them. As humans we do our best to help those in need, whether it may be for charity or for moral support. Tragedies
and disasters like this will always happen no matter what, and they are unpredictable just like Phineas’ fall. For example there are wars going on all over the world and accidents happening on a daily basis, causing numerous deaths per year. This inflicts pain towards those that love them. In today’s society, everyone mourns and weeps about death because it is not an easy thing to cope with, but it is a natural part of life. The important thing is to realize the situation, accept it, and move on with your life. Pain of loosing someone will not go away, and this is why those important to us will always have a special place in our heart. When people die in this world, we remember and honour the significance things that they have done in their lives, as well as how they have effected us. Phineas will be remembered as a brave and intelligent soul.