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Questions and Answers
Why did Vance have to distinguish his address from his home?
His address was where he spent most of his time with his sister, wherever that may be, but his home never changed: his great-grandmother's house, in the holler, in Jackson Kentucky.
Why do people in Jackson, Kentucky stop their cars, get out and stand at attention every time a funeral motorcade drives past?
Because they are hill people and they respect their dead.
What were the circumstances upon which Mamaw had nearly killed a man?
When she was around twelve, Mamaw walked outside to see two men loading the family's cow into the back of a truck. She ran inside, grabbed a rifle, and fired a few rounds. One of the men collapsed as a result of a shot to the leg, and the other jumped into the truck and squealed away.
What were some of Mamaw's pet peeves?
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Why did Vance often feel like hillbilly royalty?
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What was life like for the average citizen in Jackson, Kentucky?
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What is 'Mountain Dew mouth'?
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How do hillbillies learn from a young age about how to deal with their problems?
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Study Notes
Vance's Home and Identity
- Vance's address changed frequently while living with his sister, but his true home remained constant: his great-grandmother's house in Jackson, Kentucky.
Funeral Traditions
- In Jackson, Kentucky, people stop and stand at attention during funeral motorcades, reflecting the community's deep respect for the deceased.
Mamaw's Bold Personality
- Mamaw’s fierce nature is exemplified by an incident when, at age twelve, she shot a man who was attempting to steal the family's cow, illustrating her protective instincts over valuable family assets.
Core Values
- Mamaw despised disloyalty and class betrayal, showcasing her strong commitment to family and community loyalty.
Sense of Pride
- Vance felt a sense of superiority among hillbillies due to classic narratives where his people represented the good side in the struggle between good and evil.
Struggles in Jackson, Kentucky
- Average life in Jackson includes severe challenges; many children face hunger, and many adults remain unemployed, yet maintain a sense of pride despite these hardships.
Health Issues
- "Mountain Dew mouth" refers to severe dental issues in children caused by excessive sugary soda consumption. Vance's mother first introduced him to Pepsi in his baby bottle at a young age.
Coping Mechanisms
- Hillbillies often learn to cope with their issues either by ignoring them or by creating alternate narratives that present more favorable truths.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of Chapter 1 of 'Hillbilly Elegy' with these flashcards. Explore key concepts and questions that reflect Vance's experiences and the culture of Jackson, Kentucky. Perfect for reinforcing your understanding of the text.
