Crime Literature Analysis

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Questions and Answers

Joseph Wamba is noted for what contribution to crime literature?

Creating purely evil characters with no redeeming qualities, heightening the sense of horror.
Pioneering morally ambiguous protagonists based on his experiences as a police officer. (correct)
Emphasizing the glamorous lifestyle of criminals, inspiring readers to emulate them.
Focusing on the intellectual brilliance of criminals, portraying them as masterminds.

Why might audiences be drawn to morally ambiguous characters in crime stories, such as Tony Montana in Scarface?

Because they reinforce traditional values and societal norms.
Because these characters always represent the triumph of good over evil, offering a comforting narrative.
Because they exhibit traits of resourcefulness and defiance against a flawed system. (correct)
Because such characters are often the victims of circumstance, absolving them of responsibility.

What is the significance of Clarice Starling in crime genre narratives?

She reinforces the stereotype of women as victims in crime stories.
She embodies a traditionally masculine archetype within a crime setting.
She is significant for her reliance on established authority figures to solve crimes.
She represents a strong female role model, challenging the typically macho environment. (correct)

Which aspect of Silence of the Lambs contributes to its enduring appeal?

Its exploration into the psychological depths of both the protagonist and antagonist. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception exists regarding those involved in organized crime, as challenged by crime writers?

They are often ordinary individuals, not necessarily exceptionally bright. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the inclusion of psychological depth influence the audience's perception of criminal characters?

It fosters a deeper understanding and, at times, empathy, regardless of their actions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What narrative purpose does the story of Cain and Abel serve in the context of crime literature?

It provides a foundational narrative for exploring themes of morality, transgression, and justice. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How might exploring the psychological aspects of criminal characters impact established crime genre conventions?

It challenges conventional portrayals by delving into deeper motivations and internal conflicts. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What makes Kafka's Metamorphosis such a compelling story, according to the speaker?

Its ability to be interpreted as a metaphor for personal transformation and recovery. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why does the speaker find Metamorphosis particularly impactful now, compared to when they were younger?

They have gained new insight due to their experiences in recovery. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the speaker planning to do regarding Metamorphosis that connects it to their area of expertise?

To write a paper exploring its themes as they relate to addiction recovery. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker mentions feeling 'all over the place' but assures the audience that their 'med levels are right.' What can be inferred from this statement?

The speaker is managing a health condition that sometimes affects their focus or demeanor. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why does the speaker ask the students to sign the roll sheet with their full name, and to double-check if they forget?

To ensure accurate attendance records since a significant portion of the class was missing. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the earlier discussion of Metamorphosis, why might the speaker describe getting into 'religious studies whatsoever' as 'very rare' and express being 'completely unqualified'?

Because the speaker focuses primarily on literary analysis and addiction studies. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What can you infer about the speaker's teaching style based on their digressions and personal anecdotes?

They encourage personal connections to literature and welcome digressions during class. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why bringing up Genesis, after discussing Metamorphosis, is unexpected?

Because the speaker typically focuses on addiction studies, not religious texts. (E) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker mentions being an ordained minister through the American Marriage Society primarily to:

Illustrate the ease with which one can become 'ordained' for performing marriages. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker's comparison of being an ordained minister to being in a band suggests what about their experience?

It started with excitement but became tiresome. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When the speaker says, "All good lines come from The Simpsons," what is the speaker implying:

Humor often comes from unexpected places. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker shares the statistic that half the marriages they've performed have ended in divorce. What is the likely purpose of stating this:

To humorously undermine their credibility as a marriage officiant. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of asking the audience the series of rhetorical questions about crime, punishment, and justice in the story that is about to be told?

To outline the key themes and elements to look for. (D) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker transitions from discussing their experiences as a minister to referencing the story of Adam and Eve. What is the likely reason for introducing this biblical narrative:

To use it as an example for answering the questions previously posed. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When the speaker says `Adam knew Eve, his wife` what is that referencing in the broader story that is about to be told?

It is referencing the beginning of the next generation. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the speaker's overall tone and approach, what is their primary goal in sharing these anecdotes and biblical references?

To provoke thoughtful reflection through humor and storytelling. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a primary goal when studying ancient Babylonian laws?

To gain insights into ancient life and compare them with modern society. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When considering the severity of punishments in ancient Babylonian law, such as cutting off a hand for lacking an inspection sticker, what is the most likely interpretation of this contrast?

Babylonian society likely had a different valuation of specific offenses compared to modern society. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does normalizing the use of artificial intelligence imply about its role in academic or professional settings?

It promotes a more open and integrated approach to using AI tools. (A) Signup and view all the answers

If an instructor recommends reading John Grisham's The Order in conjunction with a discussion on law and ethics, what might be an anticipated connection between the book and the course material?

The book probably contains some thought provoking or controversial perspectives on moral or legal themes. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason for contrasting old legal codes with contemporary laws?

To highlight the evolution of legal thought and societal values over time. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the discussion, what is the significance of God's warning to Cain after Abel's murder?

It serves as a mark of mercy, preventing others from accidentally killing Cain and facing punishment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker references the phrase "If thou dost well, shall thou not be accepted." What does the speaker suggest this phrase implies for Cain?

Cain must find a way to atone or redeem himself. (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to the speaker, what might Cain have done wrong regarding his offering to God?

Cain withheld the best part of his offering, not giving God his very best. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker draws a parallel between Cain's offering and sacrifices in Greek mythology. What is the common theme?

Individuals may attempt to deceive deities by offering less valuable sacrifices. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Cain dwelling in the land of Nod, east of Eden, after Abel's death?

It represents Cain's punishment and exile from God's presence. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying assumption about Cain's actions before the offering that the speaker refers to?

Cain had committed some wrongdoing or had a flawed attitude. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The speaker mentions a scholar named Ellen Pagos. What is Pagos' view on the story of Cain and Abel?

Pagos suggests we might be reading too much into the story and Cain's motivations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the speaker use the anecdote of his son's reaction at the movie theater to introduce the discussion about Cain and Abel?

To illustrate the concept of divine justice and the consequences of sin. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the symbolic burial of Polynesus considered important in the context of the story?

It allows the soul of Polynesus to proceed to the afterlife, which was otherwise impossible. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What motivates Creon's reaction to the burial of Polynesus?

A desire to maintain order and respect for his authority and laws. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the speaker characterize Creon's sense of justice in the situation?

As deeply flawed, tending toward tyranny and disregard for individual rights. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the guard's reluctance to deliver the news to Creon?

The guard is afraid of being punished or blamed for the act. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why does the speaker mention the story of Achilles and Hector?

To emphasize the importance of proper burial rites and the consequences of desecrating a body. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does Creon's decree regarding Polynesus's burial contrast with ancient Greek values?

It disregards the religious importance of proper burial rites. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does Creon threaten to do to the sentry who informs him of Polynesus' burial, and what does this reveal about his leadership style?

Torture him if he doesn't find the culprit, revealing an authoritarian approach. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best characterizes the symbolic significance of Antigone's act of burying Polynesus?

A profound assertion of moral duty and familial piety against unjust law. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Metamorphosis

A novella by Franz Kafka where Gregor Samsa transforms into an insect.

Gregor Samsa

The main character in Kafka's Metamorphosis who undergoes a bizarre transformation.