Robert
What is the most obvious example of the motif of distance shown in this novel relating to Robert? (Hint: Literal distance)
Robert goes to war in Europe, which emphasizes the geographical distance from Canada where Robert is from. It also shows the theme of escape, as Robert literally escapes his country and environment.
How does Juliet d’Orsey’s relationship with Robert Ross illustrate the motif of emotional distance?
Juliet's emotional distance from Robert is rooted in her one-sided admiration, which leads her to idealize him and prevent a genuine connection. Despite sensing his inner struggles, his emotional reserve keeps her at a distance, leaving their relationship unfulfilled as she retreats into idealized memories to escape the present.
In Part 1, how do we see Ms Ross push others away? How does this tie into the motif of space and distance?
In Part 1 of *The Wars*, Ms. Ross withdraws emotionally from Robert after his sister Rowena’s death, isolating herself in grief and guilt. Robert notices the change, realizing his mother is no longer the same, reflecting her struggle to connect due to unresolved pain and regrets.
What animal symbolized Robert’s connection to distancing himself while showing his need for escape from the people around him? (Hints: Soldiers, Forest)
The Coyote
How does Timothy Findley use running to explore the need to escape harmful situations, and the inability to achieve that escape?
Robert's failed attempt to run a marathon as a child foreshadows his eventual "failure" as a soldier. He admired a professional runner and sought to escape his sister's death by going to war, making running a daily habit during his military training.
What is the reason and motivation for Robert’s choice to go to war? How does this represent the theme of escape?
Robert chooses to go to war due to his guilt and shame over Rowena’s death, as he was responsible for being her guardian. He chooses to go to war as a path of escape from his family and grief: A chance to avoid the pain and emotional suffering.
In what way does Barbara d’Orsey’s lifestyle and relationships reflect the motif of escape, and how does this affect her connection with Robert?
Barbara d'Orsey escapes the emotional impact of war and loss through fleeting relationships, in contrast to her sister Juliet, who seeks deeper connections. Barbara's detachment and avoidance of emotional vulnerability result in shallow, unsatisfying relationships that alienate her from the true consequences of the war.
How does the imagery of trolly cars symbolize emotional attachment and Ms. Rosses need to escape her guilt?
The trolley car symbolizes Ms. Ross’s guilt and emotional attachment to Robert, reflecting her belief that the past can't be escaped. It shows her struggle to distance herself from him due to her sense of maternal failure, with the trolley's fixed path mirroring her inability to escape her guilt.
When Robert escapes to the barn with the dog, what does the barn symbolize in Robert’s eyes and how does the barn burning down show his denouement?
The barn represents a desirable escape, he attempts to find freedom that the horses represent. When the barn burns down, this shows how powerless he really is. (Shows the consequences of his actions)
How does Tom Longboat's endurance and skill parallel the resilience and survival of soldiers in the war?
Tom Longboat's athletic success is especially notable for his ability to overcome racism, showcasing resilience and endurance. His perseverance mirrors that of soldiers like Robert Ross, who also faced significant challenges and psychological struggles.
How does Robert’s confrontation with Captain Leather and his subsequent treason reflect the theme of escape? What actions reflect his motivation for escape?
Robert's killing of Captain Leather and his decision to free the captive animals symbolize his desire to escape the war and return to his humanity. This marks a shift from his earlier pursuit of glory and honor to a newfound focus on moral values and the wish to flee the war's suffering.
How does Juliet d’Orsey’s early exposure to adult life influence her understanding of distance and escape?
Juliet d'Orsey's early exposure to adult trauma and emotional disconnection shapes her view of human emotions. She becomes fascinated and alienated by the coping mechanisms she witnesses, such as emotional distance, which fuels her idealized but unattainable longing for deeper connection.
How does Mrs. Ross's guilt display the duality of the effect of space and distance?
Ms. Ross's blindness symbolizes how escape impacts people differently. Her guilt over Robert’s suffering leads her to withdraw emotionally, deepening her isolation. While distance offers Robert temporary relief, it intensifies Ms. Ross’s guilt, showing escape’s dual nature.
“No, Robert’s mother said. It must be here and he must do it.” “Why?” “Because he loved her”. Based on this quote, how does Mrs. Ross force Robert into distancing himself with rabbits and the strong connection they had with Rowena throughout her short life?
Mrs. Ross forces Robert to distance himself from the rabbits, which symbolizes his bond with his late sister Rowena. She believes this will help him let go of painful memories and adapt to the harsh realities of life, including war. Though it may lead to further isolation, her actions reflect the novel’s theme of emotional repression and coping with trauma
Compare the metaphorical meaning behind Tom’s distance as a runner and Robert’s.
Tom's metaphorical distance from society arises from his Indigenous background, which isolates him, especially as an athlete in the book's era. In contrast, Robert's distance stems from his compassion and private nature, which set him apart from the violent soldiers around him and his preference for animals over people.