Questions and Answers
What did Robert Wilson say he would have to drink when Macomber asked?
A gimlet
Where is Francis Macomber?
He is on an African safari
What is the name of Francis Macomber's wife?
Margot
When Margot realizes that her husband is a coward by the way he runs from a lion, she decides to do what?
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Margot feels what type of way towards her husband?
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Why does Margot feel bitterness towards her husband Francis Macomber?
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At the end of the short story, what is the act that shows Macomber's bravery?
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When Francis Macomber stands up to another water buffalo and Margot aims to shoot, what does she actually shoot?
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Where did Francis get shot?
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The short story is told from what point of view?
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Who is the protagonist?
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Who are the antagonists?
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What is the conflict in the story?
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What is the resolution?
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Describe Francis Macomber at the beginning of the story.
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Who is Margaret Macomber?
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Who is Robert Wilson?
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What is the setting of the story?
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What is the theme of the story?
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What is a dynamic character?
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What does the flashback in the story refer to?
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How does Francis Macomber's personality change at the end of the story?
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Have Macomber's many accomplishments prepared him for what he faces on the safari?
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Is the Macomber marriage a perfect match or a big, old disaster?
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What exactly does Wilson have against Americans?
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Why does Robert Wilson sleep with Margot?
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Study Notes
Characters
- Francis Macomber: Protagonist who starts as fearful and cowardly but displays courage by the end of the story.
- Margot Macomber: Francis's wife; contemptuous of him, has an affair with Robert Wilson, values wealth, and symbolizes manipulation.
- Robert Wilson: The safari guide; experienced, respects Francis, writes Margot off as typical of American women.
Setting
- The story unfolds during an African safari, emphasizing the themes of fear and courage in a wild, dangerous environment.
Major Themes
- Courage vs. Cowardice: True courage is depicted as the resistance to fear rather than the absence of fear.
- Manipulation in Relationships: Margot's contempt for her husband leads to infidelity, showcasing toxic dynamics in their marriage.
Plot Points
- Francis is initially portrayed as a coward after fleeing from a lion, which deepens Margot's disdain for him.
- The climax occurs when Margot unintentionally shoots Francis instead of the buffalo, marking a tragic turn in the storyline.
Character Dynamics
- Margot's Contempt: Her bitterness towards Francis stems from his cowardliness during the lion hunt.
- Robert Wilson's Perspective: Views both Margot as a seductive manipulator and Francis as weak, influenced by cultural stereotypes.
Important Events
- The lion hunt is a flashback, building suspense and illustrating Francis's initial fear.
- The resolution occurs as Francis confronts a buffalo, symbolizing his newfound courage and overcoming personal fears.
Symbolism
- The Lion and Buffalo: Represent challenges and fears; Macomber’s handling of each reflects his growth as a character.
- Margot's Actions: Her decision to shoot Francis instead of the buffalo signifies the culmination of her contempt and the disastrous nature of their relationship.
Character Development
- Francis transitions from a fearful figure to one who confronts danger, highlighting the theme of personal growth through challenge.
- Margot remains static, emphasizing her selfish motivations and lack of empathy.
Conclusion
- The Macomber marriage is depicted as a disaster, with underlying tensions and animosity predicated on notions of masculinity and female dominance.
- The story explores complex relationships through themes of courage, fear, and emotional manipulation, concluding with a tragic yet impactful resolution.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Ernest Hemingway's short story, 'The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber,' through these flashcards. Explore key characters, settings, and themes as you engage with the material in a fun and interactive way.