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The Natural

 Bernard Malamud
 

Study Questions and Essay Topics

 

Study Questions

 
Identify the elements of Arthurian tradition in The Natural.
 
 
 
Compare the roles of Memo and Iris in Roy's life.
 
 
 
Why does Roy strike out at his last at-bat?
 
 
 
 

Suggested Essay Topics

 
Describe the role of seasons in The Natural.
 
 
Though Iris and others tell him he must be a role model, Roy does not care much for his fans, noting how poorly they treat him during his slump. Is Roy's dislike of the fans justified? Why or why not?
 
 
Compare the novel The Natural to the film. What changes does the film make? Why do you think the filmmakers made those changes? Is it really the same story?
 
 
Is Roy at age thirty-four any different than Roy at age nineteen? Explain your answer.
 
 
Why do you think Roy waits so many years to get back into baseball?
 
 
 
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