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Mrs. Whitton English 11 World Literature The Namesake

Please write a 3 page paper on one of the following questions. You must provide specific examples from the "The Namesake" in your essay. I want you to demonstrate to me that you are able to critically analyze this novel. Please consider the themes of assimilation, culture, and diaspora in your responses. Your essay should be double spaced and is due Friday, March 20th.

1. Names and their meanings are very important in "The Namesake." Ashima means "one without borders" and Ashoke means "one who transcends grief." Please choose one of these characters and explain why or why not these names accurately represent the character.

2. How does Gogol's relationship with his parents change throughout the novel? Pay specific attention to Gogol as a young child and Gogol as he attends college. You may consider your relationship with your parents over the years when answering this question.

3. Describe how America or India are major characters in this novel.

4. Consider the six month trip to India. Pick one of the characters and write about that character's response to the trip. What happened on the trip? What was significant? How did they feel upon returning home?

5. "But you're Indian," Pamela says, frowning. "I'd think the climate wouldn't affect you, given your heritage." "Pamela, Nick's American," Lydia says, leaning across the table, rescuing Gogol from the conversation. "He was born here." (Page 157) How does this exchange represent Gogol? How has Gogol changed at this point in the novel?

6. Picking one of the major characters in the novel, please explain the different ways in which they have assimilated to the United States. .