Wedding Feast in Chicago's Stockyards

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Questions and Answers

What is the preferred dance style among the younger generation?

  • Tango
  • Waltz
  • Two-step (correct)
  • Conga

Which couple exemplifies a contrasting approach to dancing compared to more traditional styles?

  • Jokubas and Lucija (correct)
  • Alena and Juozas
  • Tamoszius and friends
  • Jadvyga and Mikolas

What was Ona Lukoszaite's emotional state during her wedding celebration?

  • Disinterested and detached
  • Angry and resentful
  • Joyful yet overwhelmed (correct)
  • Indifferent and bored

What specific challenge does Mikolas face as a beef-boner?

<p>Risk of debilitating injuries (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Jadvyga’s personal situation influence her appearance and options for attire?

<p>She cannot afford new dresses due to family obligations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining characteristic of the guests' behavior during the celebration?

<p>Charming informality and freedom (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of food was prominently mentioned as part of the wedding feast?

<p>Stewed duck and sauerkraut (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What moment in the dance is characterized by a rapid increase in intensity and participation?

<p>The furious prestissimo finale (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How were the wedding guests treated in terms of hospitality?

<p>No one was allowed to leave hungry (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguished the couple Jurgis and Ona in their appearance?

<p>They had dramatic differences in their physique and looks (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Marija Berczynskas primarily concerned with during the ceremony?

<p>Maintaining the ceremony's traditions and proprieties (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Marija react when the coachman did not drive faster as instructed?

<p>She expressed her opinion in multiple languages (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the atmosphere like as Marija approached the hall?

<p>Chaotic and crowded, with a throng waiting (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of music could be heard from half a block away?

<p>A combination of a cello and competing fiddles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant action did Marija take upon seeing the crowd before the hall?

<p>She abruptly left the carriage to clear a path (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Jurgis's primary concern during the chaotic event?

<p>To escape the situation with Ona (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Ona respond to Jurgis's promise to 'work harder'?

<p>She feels secure and reassured (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the atmosphere like among the dancers as the night goes on?

<p>They appear dull and increasingly intoxicated (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the response of the policeman to the potential fights at the event?

<p>He proactively intervenes to prevent fights (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What underlying theme is suggested through Jurgis's repeated assertion of working harder?

<p>The concept of personal responsibility and perseverance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does Tamoszius play in the scene described?

<p>He is the leader of the orchestra. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the atmosphere created by the music during the banquet?

<p>It transforms the saloon into a euphoric wonderland. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the acziavimas ceremony?

<p>To facilitate a dance with the bride and celebrate the union. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Tamoszius's playing represent for the guests at the banquet?

<p>A connection to their cultural heritage and memories. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the reaction of the guests evolve as Tamoszius plays?

<p>They gradually engage more, dancing and singing along. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the guests contribute to the acziavimas celebration?

<p>By donating money into a hat held by Teta Elzbieta. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes Tamoszius's appearance during the performance?

<p>His clothing is unconventional, with whimsical patterns and colors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the financial implications of the wedding festivities for the guests?

<p>Guests will likely spend more than they earn in a year. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the word 'veselija' in the context of the celebration?

<p>It represents a moment of joy and escape from daily struggles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Marija Berczynskas respond to the musicians during the festivities?

<p>She becomes furious and aggressively demands more music. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What event caused little Sebastijonas to scream?

<p>He was hit by a door. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Ona particularly anxious about during the festivities?

<p>The large amount of bills accumulating. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common behavior was observed among the young men after coming to the new country?

<p>They tended to leave events without notification. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How was the saloon-keeper portrayed in relation to the parties and the bills?

<p>He was known to underestimate consumption leading to higher charges. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What were the concerns regarding the contributions of characters like ponas Jokubas and poni Aniele during the festivities?

<p>They had to mortgage properties to afford contributions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What task does Tamoszius Kuszleika struggle with while moving through the crowd?

<p>Reaching the bride's side (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physical description is given for Marija Berczynskas?

<p>Short with a broad build and prominent red cheeks (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the general reaction of the guests when Dede Antanas begins his speech?

<p>They listen closely and some cry (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first activity that occurs after the banquet starts to break up?

<p>People start wandering and socializing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Tamoszius prepare to play after his break?

<p>He taps his violin and waves his bow (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Arrive first

The act of arriving at a destination first, often with a sense of urgency or importance.

Roaring

A loud, forceful, and often harsh manner of speaking, often used to command attention or enforce obedience.

Furious altercation

A situation where two or more people disagree or argue in a heated manner, often raising their voices and expressing strong opinions.

Throng

A group of people gathered together, often in a public place, for a particular event or purpose.

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Orchestral uproar

A musical performance that features the sounds of instruments like cellos and fiddles, often creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.

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Two-step

A type of dance popular among the young people at the gathering.

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Dances from home

A type of dance performed by older people, often with intricate steps and a solemn atmosphere.

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Holding hands and moving freely

The act of holding each other's hands and moving freely to the music, expressing joy without a specific dance routine.

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Slow rocking motion

A slow and rhythmic dance with slow swaying motions, often depicted as a picture of simple joy and pleasure.

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Lithuanian dance

A dance characterized by a flurry of fast and intricate steps, often resembling skating.

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Veselija

A traditional Lithuanian wedding celebration, characterized by a vibrant atmosphere and an emphasis on community togetherness.

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Incongruous

A term used to describe a person or a thing that is strangely different or unsuitable for another. It is usually applied to mismatched couples or situations.

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Spectator

A person who is present at an event but does not actively participate. In the context of the story, these people are watching the wedding festivities unfold.

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Charming Informality

The celebration's atmosphere reflects the informal and relaxed spirit of Lithuanian traditions, where everyone is welcome and free to participate in their own way.

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Babies' Corner

A collection of cribs and carriages set up in a corner to accommodate the many babies present at the wedding celebration. This reflects the importance of family and children in Lithuanian culture and the inclusivity of the celebration.

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Music's Power

The music played at the wedding is described as a magical and transformative force that transports the guests from the cramped saloon to a wondrous and enchanting realm.

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Inspired Musicians

The musicians, particularly the leader Tamoszius Kuszleika, are portrayed as deeply passionate and inspired, their playing filled with intense emotion and raw energy.

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Music's Emotional Impact

Despite their limited skills and resources, the music resonates deeply with the guests, offering them a brief escape from their harsh realities and allowing them to connect with their innermost feelings and memories.

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Ensemble Harmony

Even though the musicians are skilled in different ways, their passion and dedication come together to create a powerful and moving musical tapestry.

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Guest Participation

The wedding guests embrace the music wholeheartedly, expressing their emotions through singing, dancing, and emotional outbursts, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

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Acziavimas

A ceremony where guests form a circle, locking hands, and dance with the bride one by one, paying money for the privilege.

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Marija Berczynskas

A person who is passionate and energetic, often to the point of being overwhelming.

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The Desire to ‘Stay, thou art fair!’

The desire to hold onto something beautiful or enjoyable, despite its fleeting nature.

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Veselija as a Momentary Escape

The concept of living life to the fullest, even if it means experiencing momentary excess or extravagance.

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Ona's reaction to the music

Ona's emotional response to the music, characterized by a mixture of awe, wonder, and a sense of being overwhelmed. She appears to be transported to another realm, unaware of her surroundings.

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Marija's singing

Marija's powerful, passionate singing, described as loud and intense, with a voice that fills the entire room.

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Antanas' speech

Antanas' speech, a heartfelt and emotional message delivered with vulnerability and a sense of mortality. It evokes a sense of deep emotion and evokes tears from the guests.

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Jokubas's 'poetiszka vaidintuve'

Jokubas's ability to imagine and create stories and situations, often characterized as playful and lighthearted, exemplified by his speech at the wedding.

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What is a veselija?

A social event in which guests gather to celebrate, usually a wedding, accompanied by music, food, and dancing.

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What is a compact in this context?

A commitment or obligation, often implied and unspoken, that everyone understands and participates in during a special event like a wedding.

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What is 'giving a little more'?

The act of contributing to a shared cost or effort, often in the form of money or labor.

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Describe the subtle poison changing young men's behavior?

The change in behavior and responsibility among younger guests at a wedding, particularly in a new environment, causing concern and frustration for the host family.

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What are the family's concerns regarding the wedding?

The worry and anxiety felt by the host family about the potential for financial burden and disrespect from guests, especially concerning excessive drinking and expenses.

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Coming to blows

The use of force or aggression to settle a dispute or conflict, often resulting in physical harm or injury.

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Fighting drunk

A state of being drunk to the point of being unable to function properly, often characterized by slurred speech, impaired judgment, and aggression.

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Docked an hour's pay

The act of being penalized or losing wages for being late to work, often a consequence of strict workplace rules.

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Work harder

An informal term that describes a person who is constantly working hard, often to make ends meet or to overcome financial hardship.

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Flung out of the place

The process of removing someone from a specific location or gathering, often as a result of misconduct or disturbance.

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Study Notes

Wedding Feast in Chicago's Stockyards

  • Time: Ceremony ended at 4:00 pm, carriages arrived, festivities began.
  • Location: Rear room of a saloon in Chicago's "back of the yards" district, a wedding feast.
  • Characters:
    • Marija Berczynskas: Bride's cousin, highly energetic, assertive, orchestrates wedding.
    • Ona Lukoszaite: Bride, young and emotional, nervous/overwhelmed.
    • Jurgis Rudkus: Groom, strong and stoic, frightened by the commotion, initially shy and subdued.
    • Teta Elzbieta: Ona's stepmother, bustling, concerned.
    • Dede Antanas: Jurgis' father, elderly, ill, gives speech.
    • Jokubas Szedvilas: Deli vender, jovial and helpful, gives a follow-up speech.
    • Tamoszius Kuszleika: Inspired violinist, energetic and impassioned musician, plays on without rosin or in tune.
    • Valentinavyczia: Cellist, plays the bass, patient and steady.
    • Supporting characters (family members, musicians).
  • Atmosphere:
    • Lively and boisterous, wedding feast, with a varied crowd, both attendees and onlookers.
    • A mix of Lithuanians, other ethnic groups and some Americans.
    • Music, primarily played by an inspired Tamoszius and his accomplices.
    • The location, a saloon, contrasts with the joy of the wedding.
    • The sheer volume of people and the celebration is emphasized for the significance.
  • Description: The veselija, a Lithuanian wedding celebration, features dancing, music, and a large gathering. The setting is a saloon "back of the yards." The wedding itself is a major event for Ona.
  • Musical Performance:
    • Tamoszius, the violinist, is deeply inspiring and his passion fills the room.
    • All musicians are unrefined, but their intense performance transcends the setting.

Financial Strain and Concerns

  • Wedding Expenses:
    • The wedding expenses are considerable; the gathering has large sums of money spent, even for those with modest means.
  • Financial Concerns: Attendees, particularly those burdened by debts and limited finances, face hardship and struggle.
  • Consequences: Some guests who are less able to afford the event sneak off or drink heavily instead of dancing.

The Stockyards District

  • Setting:
    • Described as a "dreary," "wretched," "ugly," and "dirty" city neighborhood.
    • Filled with factories, railroads, and cattle pens, creating a chaotic and elemental atmosphere.
    • The environment is stark and starkly contrasted against the celebration.
  • Description: The stockyards are a chaotic and industrialized space; and the neighborhood is described with detail.
  • Working Conditions: Many of the attendees or attendees' families work in the harsh conditions of the stockyards, demonstrating the contrast to happiness and celebration.

Post-Festivities

  • Midnight: The party continues late into the night, with a significant level of public intoxication.
  • Final Event: A large, communal dance called "acziavimas," where guests pay money to dance with the bride.
  • Departure: Couples, mainly, leave the party one by one, often in a state of exhaustion

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