Notes Page “Paul’s Case”

Characterization
Read the first 10 paragraphs of “Paul’s Case” and record examples from the story which reveal Paul’s character.  

The first 10 paragraphs characterize Paul through the eyes of others.  What conflicting feelings do you have about Paul based on the characterization of Paul this far?  Give examples from the text to support your ideas.

In paragraph 11, there is a shift in point of view.  How is Paul’s character revealed here and through whose eyes?  Record examples of the characterization provided after paragraph 11. 

Setting
List the four settings in the story in the order they appear.  Why does the author reveal these settings in this order?

Two of the four settings include access to the world of the arts.  Does Paul love art and creativity?  Does he aspire to be an artist in some form, or does the world of the arts offer him something he is unable to find in the other settings?  Explain.

Connotation
List at least three connotations the word “case” has in the title.  Give examples from the story to support your ideas.

Theme
Short stories often reveal human nature in some form.  What is revealed about human nature in this story?  Consider Paul as a representative for young people who don’t seem to fit in and his teachers and father as a representative for society.  What might Cather’s theme be in this story?

Symbols
List at least one symbol in the story and explain what it represents.