Question 12:
In “The Divided House,” Anna’s perspective on slavery is one of strong opposition, viewing it as morally wrong, while her brother Daniel aligns with the Southern cause, supporting slavery and fighting for the Confederacy. This fundamental difference creates a rift between them, highlighting the personal conflicts that families faced during the Civil War. Anna’s internal struggle illustrates the broader societal divisions, showcasing how war not only splits nations but also families, deeply impacting her emotional state and sense of identity.
Question 13:
The emotions and conflicts in both passages reflect the larger tensions of the Civil War era by illustrating the profound divisions within families and communities over issues like slavery and loyalty. Anna’s heartbreak over her brother’s choice reveals the personal cost of ideological divides, emphasizing how the war tore apart familial bonds. Similarly, John’s letter embodies the sense of duty and sacrifice felt by many soldiers, showcasing the conflicting emotions of love for family versus allegiance to a cause, capturing the historical struggle between personal conviction and national loyalty.
Question 14:
In both “A Letter Home” and “The Divided House,” themes of duty, sacrifice, and the impact of war on personal relationships emerge prominently. In “A Letter Home,” John conveys a deep sense of duty through his commitment to fight for peace, stating he hopes his sacrifice enables his daughter, Sarah, to know peace. This sentiment emphasizes resolve amidst turmoil. Conversely, in “The Divided House,” Anna’s anguish over her brother’s decision highlights the fragmented loyalties within a family divided by war. The distinct emotional responses shape the overarching theme of conflict between personal beliefs and familial ties, underscoring the war’s far-reaching consequences.
Question 15:
In "A Letter Home," John expresses his sense of duty and sacrifice through vivid imagery and emotional appeals. He describes the battlefield as a place filled with “the constant echoes of cannon fire,” which underscores the harsh realities of war. His reflection on witnessing men “rise with courage and fall with the weight of their sacrifice” conveys an understanding of the gravity of their fight. Furthermore, his message to his family, especially to “little Sarah,” emphasizes his paternal instinct to protect and secure a peaceful future for her. By stating that the war is “hard, but it is necessary,” he encapsulates the conflicted feelings many soldiers experienced, showcasing his dedication despite personal suffering.