Study Questions and Essay Topics
Study Questions
1. Discuss Silko's
use of Laguna words in the text.
2. Discuss the
use of the spring as a symbol in
Ceremony.
3. How does alcoholism
affect the characters in the novel?
Suggested Essay Topics
1. What do animals symbolize
in the novel? Consider what real animals appear in the story as
well as the use of animals in metaphors. Discuss any special importance
of specific animals.
2. What role do Mexicans play
in Ceremony? Think about how Mexicans are similar
to and different from Native Americans, and why is it important
for certain characters to be Mexican.
3. How is old age presented?
Consider which characters are old and if we know their age. What
does their age do for them? What does it allow them to do for others?
4. How does repetition function
in Ceremony? Think about formal (sentence structure,
rhyme, etc.) as well as thematic repetition. Consider both small
and large scales, such as the repetition of sounds in a single sentence
or the repetition of ideas in the prose and poetry sections.
5. Discuss the importance of
dreams. What does Tayo dream about? How does Tayo's relationship
to his dreams change in the course of the novel?
