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Questions and Answers
In line two, the teacher asks, 'What's the excuse ______?' WHICH WORDS TELL US THAT BLENKINSOPP OFTEN MAKES EXCUSES?
this time
What is unusual about the statement in line 10: 'That makes four grandmothers this term, Blenkinsopp'?
It is unusual to have four grandmothers.
What is P.E.?
Physical Education
List two of the excuses Blenkinsopp uses.
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Do you think that structuring this poem as a series of questions and answers is effective? Give a reason for your answer.
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Comment on any part of the poem that you found funny. Explain the humor that Owen has used.
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Study Notes
Excuses and Blenkinsopp's Character
- Blenkinsopp frequently makes excuses for his absences, as indicated by the phrase "this time."
- The mention of having "four grandmothers" in a term highlights both oddity and casualness regarding loss, indicating unusual occurrences in his life.
Blenkinsopp's Excuses
- Excuses include being late for P.E. due to a grandmother's death.
- He claims absence from a maths test because of a dentist appointment.
- He states he can't participate in P.E. as his clothes are not ironed, which is justified by another grandmother's death.
Structural Elements in the Poem
- The poem's format as a dialogue of questions and answers effectively illustrates the relationship between Blenkinsopp and his teacher.
- Blenkinsopp shows respect outwardly while sneaking around responsibilities, revealing his manipulative nature.
- The teacher’s behavior suggests he may be fatigued or unaware of Blenkinsopp's tricks.
Humor in the Poem
- Humorous elements arise from Blenkinsopp's improbable story about four grandmothers, all dying on his P.E. days.
- The confusion over whether his sorrow pertains to the losses or the timing of their deaths during his P.E. classes adds a layer of comedic absurdity, showcasing Owen's humor.
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Description
Test your understanding of common phrases and themes from the text 'Excuses Excuses'. This quiz focuses on the meanings behind key statements and the unusual elements present in the narrative. Perfect for literature students looking to deepen their comprehension of character dialogue and motivations.
