Questions and Answers
What does the narrator (Lily) seem to long for at the very start of the novel?
Her mother
What year did the bees come?
1964
Who is Rosaleen?
Nanny/Maid
Who is T Ray?
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How old was Lily when her mother died?
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How did Lily's mother die?
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Describe the setting of the story.
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What did Lily hope to get from charm school and what really happened?
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Describe the relationship between Lily and Rosaleen.
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What items did Lily find in the attic?
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What dreams did Lily have for her future, and who influenced these dreams?
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Why did Rosaleen go into town on the 4th of July?
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What did Rosaleen take from the church?
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Why did Rosaleen get arrested?
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Study Notes
Lily's Longing and Background
- Lily longs for her mother, indicating a deep emotional void in her life.
- The narrative begins in 1964, the year significant to the arrival of bees, symbolizing change and transition.
Key Characters
- Rosaleen serves as Lily's nanny and first friend, gradually taking on a maternal role in her life.
- T Ray is introduced as Lily’s father, representing authority and conflict in her childhood.
Lily's Childhood Trauma
- Lily was only 4 years old when her mother died, a pivotal event that deeply affects her.
- The circumstances of her mother's death are tragic; Lily accidentally shot her, creating a sense of guilt that haunts her.
Setting and Environment
- The story is set in Sylvan and Tiburon, South Carolina, providing a Southern backdrop to the narrative filled with cultural nuances.
Aspirations and Challenges
- Lily hoped to gain social skills and self-esteem through charm school but was barred from attendance due to her lack of a maternal figure to present her with a rose.
- Her dreams of being a professor and a writer are influenced by her teacher, Mrs. Henry, showcasing the impact of education on her aspirations.
Independence and Agency
- Rosaleen's journey to register to vote on the 4th of July signifies her desire for independence and agency in a racially charged society.
- The bold act of taking two paper fans from the church highlights Rosaleen’s defiance of social norms.
Conflict and Consequence
- Rosaleen faces arrest for assault, theft, and disturbing the peace, stemming from an altercation where she poured snuff juice on three white men’s shoes, exemplifying the racial tensions of the time.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the key aspects of Chapter 1 from 'The Secret Life of Bees'. This set of flashcards will help you recall important characters and events that shape the beginning of Lily's journey. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of the novel's themes and characters.