Questions and Answers
Describe the narrator's tone in this poem and his opinion of Miniver Cheevy.
The narrator's tone is sarcastic, and he doesn't respect Cheevy who is portrayed as a pathetic alcoholic.
What effect does the structure of the poem have on its impact?
The sing-song quality initially makes it seem like a heroic poem, but it later reveals Miniver's deep dissatisfaction with life.
What does the narrator mean by describing Miniver Cheevy as a 'child of scorn'?
It indicates that his parents didn't want him.
What are some possible downsides of living in ancient times like Thebes and Camelot?
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What two elements are personified in this poem and what is ironic about Cheevy's opinion of them?
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Locate and write down three examples of alliteration in the poem.
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How is Miniver Cheevy's foolishness depicted in the fifth quatrain?
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Does Miniver Cheevy have a job? Cite two lines that help answer this question.
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If Miniver Cheevy had lived in an earlier time, do you believe he would have been a hero? Explain your thoughts.
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Why did the author choose the unusual name 'Miniver Cheevy' for the main character?
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Why do many adults pine for the 'good old days'?
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Study Notes
Tone and Character Overview
- The narrator's tone towards Miniver Cheevy is sarcastic, highlighting Cheevy's shortcomings as a pathetic alcoholic.
- Cheevy prefers to complain about his life rather than take steps to improve it, suggesting a lack of respect from the narrator.
Poetic Structure
- The poem features a sing-song structure, initially drawing readers in as a heroic narrative about an underdog.
- As the poem progresses, the contrast becomes evident, revealing Cheevy's deep dissatisfaction with life, creating frustration for the reader.
Use of Language
- Miniver Cheevy is depicted as a "child of scorn," indicating his unwelcomed status at birth due to his parents' feelings.
- Historical references like Thebes, Camelot, and Priam's neighbors invoke an idea of romanticized pasts, which had their own inherent dangers, including disease and warfare.
Personification Elements
- Personification occurs with "Romance" living on welfare and "art" depicted as a vagrant.
- There's an irony in Cheevy's judgmental view of modern society's neglect of romance and art, despite his own inaction and alcohol-fueled daydreaming.
Alliteration Examples
- The poem employs alliteration, enhancing its rhythm: examples include "Miniver and Medici," "cursed the commonplace," and "missed the medieval grace."
Character's Foolishness
- Cheevy's admiration for unattainable figures reveals his foolishness, emphasizing that only a fool would sin to impress historically significant families like the Medici.
Employment Status
- Cheevy likely has a job, suggested by his rest from "labors," his loathing of a khaki suit, and his pursuit of "gold" for wages.
Heroism Perspective
- It's doubtful Cheevy would be a hero in an earlier time due to his expectation of things occurring without effort; he is characterized by sighs for the unattainable and passiveness.
Significance of Name
- The character's unusual name, "Miniver Cheevy," reflects meaninglessness, relating to white fur used in fashion, suggesting superficiality and lack of substance.
Nostalgia Reflection
- Adults often long for the "good old days" due to a desire to escape present responsibilities.
- Occasional reflection on the past can be positive, but excessive longing may hinder one's ability to engage meaningfully with the current moment, potentially being harmful.
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Description
Explore the nuances of Edwin Arlington Robinson's poem 'Miniver Cheevy' with these flashcards. Understand the narrator's tone, character opinions, and the poem's structure through targeted questions. Perfect for students looking to deepen their comprehension of this literary work.
