Breath, Eyes and Memory

Here are a few prompts for Breath, Eyes, Memory. Feel free to use one or to pursue your own area of inquiry. Use textual evidence in the form of direct quotes to support your ideas. Write 2 page essay, choose one question and write a direct answer of 2 pages. Must be very well developed essay, correct grammar, correct english.

Danticat includes folktales in her story to illustrate what it means to be a woman in Haiti. What does it mean to be a woman in Haiti? Reference specific aspects of folktales to support your argument.

What role do men play in Breath, Eyes, Memory?

In what way is Sophie free at the end of the novel?

What is the significance of the story of the lark? How does it differ from the other stories that Sophie remembers?

Does Sophie proves that it’s possible to inherit memories and past traumas from a loved one, even without sharing their experiences?
How might you compare Breath, Eyes, Memory to Buddha in the Attic or any of the other works we’ve read in class? What are the similarities and/or differences? How do these works deal with themes such as identity, family, love, culture, memory, and/or suffering?
Sophie seems conflicted over whether she needs to forget or to remember. Which do you think she finally decides is the best course of action? Why might it important for Sophie to remember things, rather than forgetting them?