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.