Questions and Answers
What significant event led Robert Cohn to move to the Coast?
How long did Robert Cohn and Frances stay in Europe together?
What activity did Robert Cohn gain an interest in while living in Europe?
What motivated Robert Cohn to learn boxing?
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What was Frances's changing attitude toward Robert Cohn indicative of?
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How did Robert Cohn's experience at Princeton impact him personally?
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What was the primary reason Cohn felt he could not visit the girl in Strasbourg?
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What was the outcome of Robert Cohn's boxing training with Spider Kelly?
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What was Robert Cohn's family background?
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What did Robert Cohn do after he graduated from Princeton?
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Study Notes
Robert Cohn's Background
- Former middleweight boxing champion of Princeton; boxing title was personally significant despite his dislike for the sport.
- Became involved in boxing as a means to cope with feelings of inferiority associated with being Jewish at Princeton.
- Known for being shy and "nice"; rarely fought outside the gym, was the star pupil of Spider Kelly.
- Developed speed in boxing but faced over-matching that led to a permanently flattened nose.
Education and Personal Development
- Became painfully self-conscious during his time at Princeton, resulting in a loss of individuality.
- Married the first woman to show him kindness, a decision that led to domestic unhappiness.
- Had three children and lost most of his inheritance, further complicating his personal circumstances.
Post-Princeton Life
- After five years of marriage, his wife left him for a miniature painter; this was a liberating shock for Cohn.
- Moved to California and became involved with literary circles, using leftover inheritance funds to support an arts review.
- The review started in Carmel, California, and ended in Provincetown, Massachusetts, where he transitioned from a minor role to the sole editor.
Relationships and Struggles
- Cohn became involved with a forceful woman named Frances who aimed to advance professionally with the magazine.
- Relationship dynamics changed as Frances's looks faded, leading her to push for marriage.
- Cohn received a monthly allowance from his mother; spent his time writing a novel, playing bridge, and engaging in tennis and boxing.
Social Interactions and Jealousy
- Had two main friends in Europe, Braddocks (literary) and an unnamed tennis friend (who later recounted their experiences).
- Tension arose during a dinner when Cohn's friend mentioned a girl in Strasbourg, igniting Frances's jealousy.
- Cohn expressed discomfort at the idea of engaging with other women, revealing his intense loyalty and fear of Frances's reaction.
General Observations on Cohn's Character
- Portrayed as a sympathetic character with complex emotions, battling personal insecurities shaped by societal perceptions.
- Despite modest achievements, Cohn's journey reflects an ongoing struggle with identity, relationships, and self-worth.
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Description
Explore the complex background of Robert Cohn, a character who navigates personal struggles and societal expectations. This quiz delves into his boxing career, education, and the challenges he faced in his personal life post-Princeton. Test your understanding of his journey and the factors that shaped him.
