Augie and Me Introduction Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What event caused the narrator's work to be destroyed?

  • Heavy rain (correct)
  • A theft
  • A fire
  • An unfinished roof (correct)

    • Augie was sober when he called the narrator in spring 2004.

    False

    What type of diabetes was Augie diagnosed with?

    Type two diabetes

    Augie's behavior after winning at the casino indicated he was having a drink with his friends and _____

    <p>was drunk</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match Augie's actions with their descriptions:

    <p>Caught sight of Brer Lepeigne = A feeling of disgust Won a fortune at the casino = Celebrating with alcohol Called the narrator = Seeking companionship Drank heavily = Escaping depression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the narrator initially think about the state of Augie's cabin?

    <p>The roof was unfinished</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The narrator felt excited to meet Augie after hearing from him.

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

    What beverage did Augie suggest to the narrator?

    <p>A drink</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The narrator lost a month’s worth of work due to rain damaging his _____

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

    What was Augie's reaction during the conversation about Brer Lepeigne?

    <p>He was angry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of writer was sought to help the retired Cree trapper?

    <p>A full-time writer with a good command of English</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The letter requesting help with the memoir was addressed to the president of the University of Saskatchewan.

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

    In which province is the community of Sturgeon Landing located?

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

    The community of Sturgeon Landing is about forty miles south of _____ and north of The Pas.

    <p>Flin Flon</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What theme is prominently discussed in the content?

    <p>Genocide and oppression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following locations with their descriptions:

    <p>Sturgeon Landing = Community where the residential school is located Flin Flon = Town south of Sturgeon Landing The Pas = Town north of Sturgeon Landing Saskatchewan = Province where Sturgeon Landing is situated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the retired trapper's intention for the memoir?

    <p>To share his stories of the residential school</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie's experiences are compared to the atrocities of the Holocaust.

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

    The narrator of the story had previously worked as a professor before becoming a full-time writer.

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

    What moral qualities has Augie preserved through his challenges?

    <p>A sense of fairness and perceptive intelligence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The principal of St.Therese School mentioned is Father _____ Lazzardo.

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

    What type of structure was the retired Cree trapper building?

    <p>A cabin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The retired trapper described his residential school experiences as 'the horrors that he and his schoolmates had been subjected to at that _____ place'.

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

    Match the individuals with their described actions or characteristics:

    <p>Sister St.Mercy = Protected violent behavior Brother Johannes Verwelkend = Sold swag for Hitler's war effort Father Lazzardo = Spreading violence Brother Lepeigne = Taught lessons of abuse</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant critique mentioned regarding the church's role during historical atrocities?

    <p>Silence and complicity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of animal caused damage to Augie's cabin?

    <p>A bear</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie had all the modern conveniences in his cabin including water and electricity.

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

    On what date did Augie mention he was finishing his cabin?

    <p>September 18, 2003</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie reported that he was about to go __________ to stock up on jerky and pemmican for the winter.

    <p>moose-hunting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match Augie's mentioned resources with their descriptions:

    <p>unpolluted water = Clean drinking source wild chickens = Game birds found in the wild rabbits = Small mammals often used for food all the fish = Variety of fish available for fishing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Augie using to secure his cabin door?

    <p>A piece of plywood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie was living in the city before moving to Birch Portage.

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

    Which reserve is Augie's cabin located on?

    <p>Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Reserve</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie's food expenses were about __________ dollars a month.

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

    What did Augie have working in his cabin?

    <p>A battery-operated radio</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What issue did Augie express concern about during the phone call?

    <p>Drinking problem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie was optimistic about his drinking problem throughout the conversation.

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

    At what age did Augie start working for the Churchill River Power Company?

    <p>17</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie was born in the year ______.

    <p>1974</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following professions with Augie's work experience:

    <p>Power Company Employee = Started working in June 1947 Taxi Driver = Retired at age sixty-seven Fisherman = Part of Augie's varied work history Memoirist = Eager to write down key experiences</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What special diets was Augie following?

    <p>To stay healthy and add years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Augie felt like he was on 'death row' at seventy-five years old.

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

    What did Augie plan to resume working on by the late summer of 2005?

    <p>His memoir</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The document Augie filled out contained a line stating, 'I am ______ years or older.'

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

    What was Augie’s feeling during the phone silence after discussing his drinking?

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

    What punitive measure was used against the narrator for minor offenses like whispering?

    <p>The narrator was made to write 'I will not whisper during silence' five hundred times.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the punishment of walking twenty miles in extreme weather impact the narrator's childhood experience?

    <p>The punishment instilled fear and anxiety in the narrator during their childhood, representing a traumatic experience.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did speaking Cree lead to punishment in the residential school setting?

    <p>The narrator was punished for speaking Cree by being forced to endure a long walk in severe weather conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What feelings did the narrator associate with being forced to stay within the barbed-wire enclosed playground?

    <p>The narrator felt like they were 'getting out of prison' when allowed to leave the playground.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the emotional and physical consequence of the harsh punishments inflicted by the Sisters?

    <p>The narrator experienced both physical pain and emotional distress from the punishments imposed by the Sisters.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Sisters' enjoyment in causing pain contribute to the overall atmosphere of the school?

    <p>Their enjoyment in causing pain created an oppressive and fear-filled atmosphere for students.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What specific physical and emotional challenges did the narrator face due to the stringent disciplinary measures?

    <p>The narrator faced persistent pain in their left eye and emotional trauma from repeated physical punishment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what ways did the incidents described demonstrate the impact of racism on the narrator's education?

    <p>The narrator's punishment for speaking Cree reflects a broader cultural suppression and the racial dynamics at play.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the experience of braving fresh wolf tracks symbolize for the narrator during their punishment?

    <p>Braving the wolf tracks symbolized the fear and vulnerability children faced while enduring harsh punishments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What overall theme emerges from the combination of punitive measures and cultural suppression in the narrative?

    <p>The overall theme highlights the severe impact of punitive educational practices and cultural suppression on Indigenous identities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What punitive measure was frequently implemented on the children at St. Therese Residential School?

    <p>They were made to kneel on the cold cement floor for hours as punishment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the narrator perceive the treatment of the children in comparison to the animals on the farm?

    <p>The children were treated worse than animals, as the animals received more care and resources.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What emotional response did the narrator express towards the speeches made by the chief or counselor?

    <p>The narrator felt that the speeches were hypocritical and insincere.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the daily routines imposed on the children at St. Therese Residential School that symbolized their lack of autonomy?

    <p>They were awakened early for church and punished at night, which stripped them of their personal choice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What language or cultural elements were likely suppressed among the children, based on their treatment in the residential school?

    <p>The residential schooling system likely enforced English and discouraged the use of Indigenous languages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the use of salt as toothpaste reflect the overall conditions of the children at the residential school?

    <p>It demonstrated extreme neglect and lack of basic hygiene supplies that were afforded to them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What psychological effects might the repeated punishment and abuse have on the children from a developmental perspective?

    <p>Such experiences could lead to long-term trauma, anxiety, and difficulties in trusting authorities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did the experiences at the school contribute to the narrator's understanding of hypocrisy within the system?

    <p>The narrator recognized the contrast between the celebratory speeches and the harsh reality faced daily.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the statement about waking up 'like it or not' indicate about the students' experiences with autonomy?

    <p>It signifies a complete lack of freedom and personal choice in their daily routines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the narrator's recollection of feelings towards the treatment they received illustrate the impact of racism and neglect?

    <p>The narrator’s reflections indicate that the children were dehumanized and viewed as less than others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What punitive measures were implemented at the residential school that indicate a lack of empathy for the students?

    <p>Students were whipped for laughing too much during mating activities of animals, illustrating extreme discipline measures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Sister Mercy's statement reflect the pervasive racism within the residential school system?

    <p>Her phrase, 'Indians from the bush, what can you expect?', illustrates a dehumanizing stereotype about Indigenous people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what ways did the practices at St. Therese School contribute to cultural suppression among the students?

    <p>The enforced obedience to religious and societal norms suppressed the students' cultural identities and expressions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the absence of eggs in the students' diet symbolize in the context of their experiences?

    <p>The absence of eggs, despite the chickens laying them, symbolizes deprivation and neglect of their basic needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the environment of St. Therese School impact the students' perceptions of their self-worth?

    <p>The constant punishment and demeaning treatment likely led to low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness among students.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did religious justification play in the disciplinary measures used at the residential school?

    <p>Discipline was framed as the will of God, creating an oppressive atmosphere where obedience was equated with virtue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the treatment of students as 'servants of God on Earth' contribute to their trauma?

    <p>This treatment diminished their humanity, as they were made to feel subservient, reinforcing a traumatic power dynamic.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the student's experience of needing to hide while watching mating animals indicate about their environment?

    <p>It indicates an environment of shame and repression concerning natural behaviors, reflecting an unhealthy educational atmosphere.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what ways did making bets while watching chickens provide a coping mechanism for the students?

    <p>Betting on chickens offered a rare sense of agency and normalcy amidst the oppressive environment at the school.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the quality of food served, such as rotten porridge, reflect the treatment of Indigenous students in residential schools?

    <p>The poor quality of food symbolizes neglect and a lack of care for the students' well-being and basic nutritional needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the author illustrate the punitive measures in place at the school regarding food?

    <p>The keepers threatened detention for students who turned their heads to watch the food being served to others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did witnessing the brothers and fathers enjoy good food have on the narrator and peers?

    <p>It amplified their feelings of neglect and suffering as they were left with inedible food.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the author suggest racism contributed to the treatment of students?

    <p>The author describes the lavish treatment of visiting dignitaries compared to the poor quality of food for the students.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the author's experience with food symbolize cultural suppression in residential schools?

    <p>The lack of decent food represents a denial of care and acknowledgment of the students' humanity and cultural needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What contradiction does the author highlight between the teachings of the keepers and their actions?

    <p>The keepers preached kindness and compassion while enforcing harsh punishments and neglecting the students' basic needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe how the experience of watching excessive food during special occasions affected the narrator's feelings.

    <p>It caused feelings of longing and sorrow, highlighting the contrast with their own dismal meals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What message does the author communicate regarding the concept of emulating Jesus and poverty?

    <p>The hypocrisy of the keepers is evident as they preach poverty and suffering while indulging in excess themselves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the passage demonstrate the childhood trauma experienced by the narrator and his peers?

    <p>The constant threat of punishment for innocuous actions and the deprivation of food created a tense and fearful environment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did special occasions play in the restoration of dignity to the students, albeit temporarily?

    <p>On feast days, the students received slightly better food and were made to dress nicely, providing a brief sense of importance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Introduction to Augie and the Memoir Project

    • A retired Cree trapper, in his early seventies, requested help with his memoir from the University of Saskatchewan.
    • He sought a co-writer with strong English proficiency and an affinity for the outdoors, offering the prospect of excellent fishing in Saskatchewan as an incentive.
    • Augie had previously documented his experiences at St. Therese Residential School, describing it as a site of trauma for him and his peers.

    Geographical Context

    • St. Therese Residential School is located approximately 40 miles south of Flin Flon and north of The Pas, across the Manitoba-Saskatchewan border.
    • The community of Sturgeon Landing, where the school is situated, is noted for its historical tension between Native and non-Native populations.

    Augie’s Living Conditions

    • Augie's cabin on the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Reserve is accessed via Hanson Lake Road, near Birch Portage.
    • He lived with minimal amenities: no power, water, or cable, but had a radio and access to natural food sources like game and fish.
    • His monthly food cost was around $50 due to his hunting activities.

    Challenges Faced by Augie

    • Augie's cabin suffered extensive damage from a bear that broke in while he was away, eating food and destroying part of his manuscript.
    • Vandalism led to theft during his absence, compounding his struggles with the memoir.

    Augie's Struggles with Alcoholism

    • His battles with alcohol became evident after setbacks, including a significant drinking spree following a series of funerals.
    • Acknowledgment of his drinking problem prompted a realization of its impact on his ability to communicate effectively.

    Interactions with the Author

    • Initial meetings did not yield deep conversations due to Augie’s alcohol consumption and evasive responses to questions about his past.
    • A more serious discussion about his alcoholism took place later, indicating Augie's awareness of the need for change.

    Augie’s Life Experiences

    • Joseph Auguste Merasty’s work history includes roles in the Churchill River Power Company and as a taxi driver before retiring.
    • He expressed urgency in completing his memoir, often reflecting on his mortality and desire to leave a legacy.

    Themes of Oppression and Trauma

    • Augie’s writing reflects his moral outrage regarding the injustices he experienced and witnessed throughout his life.
    • Comparison is made between Augie's ordeals in residential school and other historical atrocities, cautioning against equating these experiences with the Holocaust.

    Institutional Silence and Violence

    • The text critiques the silence and complicity of authority figures that enabled the abuse and trauma experienced at residential schools.
    • Specific individuals within the institutional framework of St. Therese are highlighted as agents of violence and oppression against children.

    Conclusion

    • Augie's memoir serves as a testament to the resilience undeterred by personal and institutional challenges.
    • His narrative aims to reclaim his history while shedding light on broader themes of injustice and the need for recognition of past traumas.

    Life at St. Therese Residential School

    • Students initially enjoyed trips away from the school for picnics or fishing, emphasizing a need for freedom from the enclosed yard.
    • The schoolyard was surrounded by a high barbed-wire fence, likening it to a prison environment for students.
    • Minor infractions like whispering or swearing in Cree often resulted in harsh punishments, reinforcing strict discipline.
    • Severe punishments included long walks in freezing temperatures (as low as -60°F wind chill) for minor offenses, highlighting a lack of compassion for children.
    • Sister St. Mercy, a key figure in administering punishment, was known for her severe disciplinary actions, including corporal punishment with a strap.

    Racism and Hypocrisy

    • The nuns displayed overt racism, referring to Indigenous students derogatorily and treating them as inferior beings.
    • The institution’s ideology focused on obedience as a virtue, positioning punishments as divinely ordained.
    • Students were made to kneel in cold conditions as punishment, indicating systemic neglect and abuse.

    Food Inequality and Cruelty

    • Students were given poor-quality food, such as rotten porridge and stale bread, while staff feasted on lavish meals.
    • The contrast of food served to staff versus students highlighted the neglect and dehumanization of Indigenous children.
    • Students were strictly prohibited from eating the eggs laid by the chickens they cared for, demonstrating further exploitation.

    Emotional Impact and Reflection

    • Continuous punishments made students question the sincerity of the religious teachings they received, especially regarding kindness and equality.
    • Visits from bishops and community leaders led to temporary improvements in treatment, revealing the hypocrisy in the school’s everyday practices.

    Social Customs and Entertainment

    • Students engaged in betting on chickens, showcasing a need for entertainment in a harsh environment.
    • While entertainment was allowed with animals, students faced punishment for simply laughing too much or too loud.

    Major Themes

    • Extreme punishment and institutional neglect defined the students' experiences at St. Therese, contrasting dramatically with religious rhetoric about love and kindness.
    • The stark differences in treatment between staff and students underscored systemic racism and neglect within residential schools.
    • The psychological impact of abuse and the struggle for dignity persisted long after students left the school.

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    Description

    Test your understanding of 'Augie and Me,' particularly the introductory section. This quiz explores themes, characters, and the context surrounding the beginning of the memoir. Perfect for students and readers looking to delve deeper into the text.

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