Themes
How does the reaction of the villagers showcase the theme of selfishness?
Only concerned about the benefit to them. Did not want to go out of their way to help Maggie.
What one word would you use to describe Maggie? Explain with evidence.
Patient, gentle
How is Maggie depicted as an angel?
positive change in the lives of the Thompsons
Which character(s) in the story are selfless? Explain how.
Joe Thompson - took in Maggie even though there was no benefit for him.
Give a brief character sketch of Joe Thompson.
compassionate, selfless, firm in his beliefs
What message is conveyed through the line: "Death touches the spring of our common humanity"?
Death brings out the positive side of humanity - shows that all human beings are capable of compassion, even towards people they otherwise despise.
Who else could be seen as an angel in the story? Why?
Joe Thompson, Mrs. Thompson
What themes emerge from the story? Explain with evidence.
Selfishness vs. selflessness
Compassion
Love as a redeemer
Explain the change in the personality of Mrs. Thompson.
from hard-hearted and mean-spirited to loving and kind
By depicting Maggie as a burden, what message is T.S. Arthur trying to convey?
That we should do good regardless of the benefit for ourselves. To be selfless.
How is the title relevant to the message of the story?
By using the word "disguise", the author is indicating that good things usually appear in disguise and we need to be prepared to deal with the outer layer in order to benefit from it.