Disillusionment in "Blood" by Keith Aitchison
The short story "Blood" by Keith Aitchison delves into themes of ownership, patriotism, and disillusionment as seen through the interactions of the characters. The arrival of Timothy Maguire sparks a struggle for heritage ownership, leading to conflicts within the family. Through Timothy's influence, Martin undergoes a transformation influenced by nostalgia and encounters with reality in Belfast. The narrative explores the contrast between romanticized ideals and harsh truths, ultimately leading to a sense of disillusionment.
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Blood By Keith Aitchison
Timothys Arrival (Pages 1 and 2) The story begins with the arrival of Timothy Maguire from Belfast in Glasgow. He has come to visit his widowed sister, Mary, and her son, his nephew, Martin, 19. They have not seen one another since Mary s husband s funeral four years previously. In what ways does Timothy try to claim ownership of Martin s heritage for the Maguire side of the family? Highlight these examples on your copy. In what ways does Mary try to quash this? Highlight what she says as counters to Timothy s comments.
This short story concerns the loss of illusions of the main character Uncle Timothy is described by his sister as a great tale-spinner . His patriotism, and his portrayal of his country, is romantic and idealised. The image that he projects of himself is also glorified. Find evidence of these depictions from pages 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Who is NOT persuaded, and why? Look at what is said by Timothy on pages 6 and 7. Why is Martin so susceptible to his uncle s brand of nationalism? Consider what you find out on pages 3, 4, 6, and 7. Explain how Martin changes as a result of Timothy s influence.
days that had become rosier and more entrancing as the years sped from them What does this quotation suggest about the old men s reminiscences and conversations? How does their nostalgia influence Martin?
Disillusionment - setting On his arrival in Belfast, Martin s process of disillusionment begins. The reality of the city he finds himself in contrasts ironically with the Ireland of his imagining Quote descriptions of the grim setting from pages 10 and 11 as evidence of this. How does the rain contribute to the mood created by the author?
Disillusionment - plot Martin enters a pub to wait until his uncle returns. Here, he meets two I.R.A. terrorists who interrogate him. It is now that the Ireland of the tales suffocated and died inside him. As with setting, the author uses irony in the depiction of the terrorists, for they are not the romantic heroes of myth that Martin believed in. Look at pages 12 to 15 when Michael and Peter become important characters in the story.
Here are some words to describe them: Menacing, suspicious, ruthless, fervent, violent, callous, vindictive, scornful, fanatical, authoritative, sadistic, controlled, logical Which qualities apply to which of the characters? Find examples of the way in which they speak, as well as what they say and do as illustrations of their characteristics.
Critical Essay Character Questions What similarity do you notice in the wording of the second sentence of ALL of the questions? What does appropriate techniques mean to you? In your small groups, pick ONE of the questions from the years 2014 19. Divide your flipchart page up into these sections: characterisation; setting; plot; structure. Fill the section in with as many relevant points as you can for the various devices of fiction.
The Introduction Look at the model introduction you have for the theme essay on Blood . Remember the key ingredients that an opening paragraph should have TARTTT?? Title Author Refer to the Tale Task and the Techniques How would you change the model introduction, so that it suits the question you have chosen?
Disillusionment - characterisation Uncle Timothy re-enters the story and we are finally shown the reality of what he is like. Pick out quotations from pages 15 and 16 which show this. I d never claim your glory for myself! Explain the irony of this. What do we find out from Michael and Peter about Uncle Timothy?
