Rainy river Flashcards
(16 cards)
Characters
Tim O’brien
Elroy Berdahl
What triggers Tim O’Brien’s moral dilemma in the story?
He receives a draft notice to fight in the Vietnam War.
Where does Tim consider fleeing to avoid the draft?
Canada
What is the significance of the Rainy River in the story?
The Rainy River symbolizes the border between the United States and Canada.
Who is Elroy Berdahl, and what role does he play in the story?
The owner of the Tip Top Lodge who silently supports Tim during his crisis.
How does O’Brien describe his relationship with Elroy Berdahl?
O’Brien views Elroy as a father figure who subtly guides him during one of the most difficult times in his life.
What theme does the story explore through O’Brien’s internal conflict?
The story explores the theme of courage versus cowardice, as well as fear versus foresight
How does the story address the concept of shame?
Shame plays a central role, as O’Brien ultimately decides to go to war not out of patriotism, but because he fears the shame of being judged by his family and community.
Symbols and what they represent
Rainy River and Tip Top Lodge. The rainy river symbolizes the line between freedom and obligation or safety and duty. The Tip Top Lodge represented a place where he could reflect on his decision without impact from society.
What is one of the most significant quotes in “On the Rainy River”?
One significant quote is: “I was a coward. I went to the war.” This encapsulates O’Brien’s feeling that his choice was driven by fear of shame, not bravery.
What is the central conflict in the story?
The central conflict is internal, as O’Brien wrestles with the moral dilemma of whether to evade the draft and live with the consequences or fight in a war he believes is unjust.
How does society influence O’Brien’s decision?
Societal expectations and the fear of disappointing his family and community heavily influence O’Brien to join the war, despite his personal beliefs.
What significant event happens on the boat ride with Elroy?
Tim is taken close to the Canadian border but ultimately decides not to cross.
Why does Tim choose to go to war instead of fleeing?
He fears the shame and judgment of his family and community more than the war.
How does Tim describe his decision to go to war?
He calls himself a coward for going to war, as it was driven by fear of shame, not bravery.
How does Tim reflect on this experience later in life?
He sees it as a pivotal moment that shaped his understanding of courage and fear.
