An American Childhood by Annie Dillard Flashcards
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Questions and Answers

What is the title of the work?

  • An American Childhood (correct)
  • A Winter's Tale
  • Growing Up in Pittsburgh
  • Childhood Memories

    • Who is the author of 'An American Childhood'?

    Annie Dillard

    What genre does 'An American Childhood' belong to?

    Memoir

    Summarize a thrilling moment experienced by Annie Dillard in 'An American Childhood'.

    <p>Annie was chased by a man after throwing snowballs at cars.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does Annie love football?

    <p>Because it requires concentration and courage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the point of view in 'An American Childhood'?

    <p>Subjective - Annie's</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the tone of 'An American Childhood'.

    <p>Nostalgic</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What life lesson can be drawn from Annie Dillard's experiences?

    <p>She is adventurous and throws herself into life's events.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the man chase Annie and her friend?

    <p>They threw a snowball at his car.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happened when the man caught up with Annie and her friend?

    <p>He grabbed their jackets and scolded them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can the man who chased Annie Dillard be described?

    <p>He might be strict and orderly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dillard describes her neighborhood and weather on the day of the chase as ______.

    <p>cloudy, cold, snowy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Dillard end the piece this way instead of just stopping earlier?

    <p>To share her exhilarating experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What setting is established in 'An American Childhood'?

    <p>Right after Christmas in suburban Pittsburgh in the 1950s.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutes the rising action in the story?

    <p>Annie and friends throw snowballs, and a man chases them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the climax of the story?

    <p>The skinny redhead man catches Annie and Mikey and scolds them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens during the falling action?

    <p>The man walks away.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the resolution of Annie's thrilling experience?

    <p>Annie realizes this moment was the most thrilling of her life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Annie Dillard write about the snowball chase?

    <p>To share her favorite moment in life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Title and Author

    • "An American Childhood" is a memoir by Annie Dillard.

    Genre

    • The work falls under the memoir genre, reflecting personal experiences and memories.

    Summary of Key Events

    • Annie's childhood in Pittsburgh includes playful winter activities with friends, such as throwing snowballs at cars.
    • During one incident, a driver reacts angrily, chasing Annie and her friend, which becomes a thrilling experience for her.

    Personal Insights

    • Dillard expresses a love for football, emphasizing the sport's need for concentration and bravery.
    • She has an intimate knowledge of her Pittsburgh neighborhood, described as scruffy and wintry.

    Narrative Perspective

    • The story is told from a subjective point of view, showcasing Annie's personal experiences and emotions.

    Tone

    • A nostalgic tone is prevalent, as Dillard fondly remembers her childhood adventures.

    Life Lessons

    • The narrative highlights Annie's adventurous spirit and her readiness to engage fully in life's happenings.

    Conflict and Resolution

    • The conflict arises when the man chases Annie and her friend due to their snowball throwing.
    • The climax occurs when he catches them, scolding them but ultimately walking away, leading to resolution as Annie appreciates the thrill of the chase.

    Setting

    • The story is set in suburban Pittsburgh shortly after Christmas in the 1950s, featuring snowy conditions on Reynolds Street.

    Key Plot Points

    • Rising action includes the buildup of children throwing snowballs and the man's reaction.
    • The resolution reveals Annie's realization of the excitement and significance of the chase in her life.

    Purpose of the Memoir

    • Dillard aims to share her exhilarating childhood experience, highlighting joy, excitement, and the adrenaline of childhood adventures.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on 'An American Childhood' by Annie Dillard with these flashcards. Covering key elements like the title, author, genre, and a brief summary, this quiz is a perfect study tool for literature enthusiasts. Enhance your understanding of this memoir and its themes.

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