Masculinity

Question 1

What is the primary theme related to masculinity in ‘Boy Swallows Universe’?

Answer 1

The exploration of toxic masculinity and its impact on identity and relationships.
What it is to be a good man.

Question 2

True or False: Eli’s character represents a traditional view of masculinity.

Answer 2

False

Question 3

Fill in the blank: Eli’s journey reflects his struggle against __________ expectations of masculinity.

Answer 3

societal

Question 4

What does Eli learn about masculinity throughout the novel?

Answer 4

He learns that vulnerability and emotional honesty are also aspects of being a man.

Question 5

Which character serves as a critique of traditional masculine roles in the story?

Answer 5

Eli’s father, who embodies toxic masculinity.

Question 6

How does Eli evolve?

Answer 6

He evolves from a boy constrained by societal norms to one who embraces his emotional depth.

Question 7

What role does Eli’s relationship with his brother play in his understanding of masculinity?

Answer 7

It highlights the importance of support and love in redefining masculinity.

Question 8

True or False: The novel suggests that masculinity is a fixed identity.

Answer 8

False

Question 9

What quote reflects Eli’s realization about masculinity?

Answer 9

‘Being a man is not about being tough, it’s about being true to yourself.’

Question 10

Fill in the blank: Eli’s growth is depicted through his __________ with his emotions.

Answer 10

acceptance

Question 11

How does the author use Eli’s experiences to critique societal norms of masculinity?

Answer 11

By showcasing the negative consequences of adhering to rigid masculine stereotypes.

Question 12

Multiple choice: What does Eli’s mother represent in the context of masculinity?

Answer 12

A nurturing force that challenges traditional gender roles.

Question 13

What is one way Eli defies traditional masculinity in his actions?

Answer 13

By showing empathy and compassion towards others.

Question 14

True or False: Eli’s growth is linear and uncomplicated.

Answer 14

False

Question 15

What symbol in the novel represents Eli’s struggle with masculinity?

Answer 15

The moon, which symbolizes his search for identity and understanding.

Question 16

Fill in the blank: Eli’s understanding of masculinity is shaped by his __________ experiences.

Answer 16

traumatic

Question 17

Which character challenges Eli’s perception of masculinity?

Answer 17

The character of Slim, who embodies a different, more positive form of masculinity.

Question 18

Multiple choice: What does Eli ultimately conclude about masculinity?

Answer 18

It is multifaceted and should allow for vulnerability.

Question 19

What quote encapsulates Eli’s transformation regarding masculinity?

Answer 19

‘Strength is not the absence of weakness, but the courage to face it.’

Question 20

True or False: Eli’s relationships with women are portrayed as secondary to his masculine identity.

Answer 20

False

Question 21

How does Eli’s friendship with others influence his view on masculinity?

Answer 21

It teaches him the value of connection and emotional support.

Question 22

What does the notion of ‘swallowing the universe’ symbolize in relation to masculinity?

Answer 22

The acceptance and integration of all aspects of one’s identity, including vulnerability.

Question 23

Fill in the blank: Eli’s journey can be seen as a critique of __________ masculinity.

Answer 23

toxic

Question 24

Multiple choice: What aspect of masculinity is most critiqued through Eli’s father’s character?

Answer 24

The glorification of violence and emotional repression.

Question 25

“I’m a good man,’ Slim says. ‘But I’m a bad man too. And that’s like all men, kid. We all got a bit o’ good and a bit o’ bad in us. The tricky part is learnin’ how to be good all the time and bad none of the time. Some of us get that right. Most of us don’t.”

Answer 25

Duality of Human Nature: Slim’s statement encapsulates the moral ambiguity within individuals, suggesting that all people possess both good and bad qualities. Dalton’s characterization of Slim as a mentor figure lends weight to this perspective, reinforcing the complexity of morality. The Struggle for Moral Consistency: The notion that "some of us get that right, most of us don’t" highlights the difficulty of maintaining moral integrity. Dalton critiques the idealistic expectation of absolute goodness, instead presenting morality as a continuous, often unsuccessful, struggle. Philosophical Depth and Realism: Slim’s reflection is not just personal but universal, offering a pragmatic view of human nature. His wisdom suggests that morality is an active choice rather than an inherent state, aligning with the novel’s broader themes of personal growth and redemption. Narrative and Thematic Significance: By embedding this philosophy within Slim’s dialogue, Dalton subtly reinforces one of Boy Swallows Universe's central ideas: the tension between inherited circumstances and personal moral agency. Slim, as a morally complex figure, serves as both a guide and a cautionary example for Eli’s moral development.

Question 26

Tytus Broz commodification

Answer 26

Boy Swallows Universe: Reductionist, narrow masculinity that is shown in Tytus Broz, imbued with violence - interaction with daughter and commodifying her illness in order to secure his own reputation.

Question 27

"Men can choose to be good or bad - always choose" - Slim

Answer 27

Men are empowered in creating the kind of masculinity, therefore they have agency and choice, considering what kind of attributes and values do I have that allow me to live as a good man.