The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick Flashcards
(23 cards)
Who is Hugo Cabret, and what is his journey?
Hugo is a young orphan living in a train station in Paris. He is determined to fix an automaton left by his father. His journey is one of self-discovery, overcoming adversity, and finding belonging, as he navigates a life full of secrets, inventions, and a search for family.
Who is Isabelle, and how does she influence Hugo’s journey?
Isabelle is a resourceful and curious girl who becomes Hugo’s friend. She plays a key role in helping Hugo uncover the mysteries of his past and in restoring the automaton. Her adventurous spirit brings new opportunities for Hugo to open up and discover his potential.
How is the theme of invention represented in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
The theme of invention is central to the story, symbolized by Hugo’s obsession with fixing the automaton. Inventions represent both the power to unlock the past (the automaton’s message) and the possibilities of the future, as Hugo learns to use his skills to build connections and understand the world around him.
How does orphanhood play a role in Hugo’s story?
Hugo’s journey as an orphan shapes his character. His sense of loneliness and loss is a central part of his development. Ultimately, Hugo finds a new form of family and connection, symbolizing the idea that family can be found through chosen bonds, not just blood relations.
How does The Invention of Hugo Cabret emphasize the importance of stories?
The book emphasizes the power of storytelling through the automaton, silent films, and Hugo’s journey. Hugo’s discovery of the automaton’s secret reveals the value of preserving and sharing stories, especially in film, where emotion and meaning are conveyed without words.
What does the automaton symbolize in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
The automaton symbolizes Hugo’s connection to his late father and his search for meaning and answers. It also represents the magic of invention and the mystery that drives Hugo’s quest. The automaton is key to unlocking the past and finding a path forward.
How is cinema portrayed in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
Cinema is shown as a magical form of art and storytelling that transcends language and culture. It plays a crucial role in uncovering Hugo’s family history and highlighting the beauty of imagination and creativity in bringing stories to life.
How do the values of hard work and perseverance appear in Hugo’s journey?
Hugo’s persistence in fixing the automaton despite numerous setbacks reflects the American value of perseverance. He shows resilience and determination, working tirelessly to solve the puzzle, even when things seem hopeless.
How does the pursuit of dreams appear in Hugo’s journey?
Hugo’s dream of fixing the automaton and finding answers about his father represents the American value of pursuing one’s dreams. His journey embodies the idea that determination, creativity, and ambition can lead to the fulfillment of personal dreams.
How does the theme of individualism manifest in Hugo’s character?
Hugo’s independence and self-reliance are key aspects of his character. He is largely alone in the world, and his quest to fix the automaton and uncover his father’s legacy shows his desire to control his own destiny, reflecting American values of individualism and self-determination.
How does the theme of community play a role in Hugo’s development?
Although initially isolated, Hugo eventually finds a sense of community with Isabelle and other characters, highlighting the importance of connection and support. The novel suggests that even the most independent individuals need a sense of belonging, which is a key value in American society.
How does The Invention of Hugo Cabret address the theme of memory and legacy?
The story explores how memories shape identity and how legacy is passed down through generations. Hugo’s quest to understand his father’s legacy and the discovery of his connection to the film pioneer Georges Méliès underscores the importance of remembering and honoring the past.
What does the clock symbolize in Hugo’s life and story?
The clock is a symbol of Hugo’s life and responsibilities. It represents both the passage of time and his mechanical work, but also his internal journey. As Hugo learns to repair the clock and the automaton, he is also repairing his own life and understanding his place in the world.
How does the theme of secrets and discovery drive the plot of The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
Secrets are central to Hugo’s quest, both personal and familial. His journey is marked by uncovering hidden truths about his father, the automaton, and the role of cinema in his life. Each discovery brings him closer to understanding his identity and the world around him.
What do the film reels represent in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
The film reels symbolize the power of cinema and storytelling. They represent Hugo’s connection to the past, the art of filmmaking, and his journey of self-discovery. Through the reels, Hugo uncovers the mystery of the automaton and his father’s legacy.
How do innovation and creativity appear as American values in the novel?
The novel highlights innovation and creativity through Hugo’s mechanical work and the legacy of Georges Méliès. Both characters are inventors and creators, embodying American values of ingenuity and the belief that creativity can lead to new possibilities and breakthroughs.
Who is Georges Méliès, and what role does he play in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
Georges Méliès is a pioneering filmmaker whose work is central to the plot. His films and legacy are key to the story, and his relationship with Hugo reveals the connection between the art of cinema, memory, and personal identity. Méliès represents the idea of artistic creation as a means of preserving legacy.
How does the theme of overcoming adversity appear in the novel?
Hugo faces many challenges, including loneliness, loss, and poverty. His ability to persevere through these hardships, using his skills and ingenuity, reflects the American value of overcoming adversity through persistence and self-reliance.
How does the theme of friendship manifest in The Invention of Hugo Cabret?
Hugo’s friendship with Isabelle is a pivotal aspect of his emotional development. Their relationship allows Hugo to open up, trust others, and share his burdens. This theme highlights the importance of trust and support in overcoming personal challenges.
How does The Invention of Hugo Cabret reflect the value of knowledge and education?
Hugo’s quest for answers about his father and the automaton reflects the American value of pursuing knowledge. The novel suggests that education, curiosity, and a quest for understanding are essential to personal growth and achieving success.
How does The Invention of Hugo Cabret portray the immigrant experience in the context of Hugo’s life and Georges Méliès?
Both Hugo and Méliès are characters who experience displacement and loss. Hugo is an orphaned immigrant of sorts, while Méliès, a French immigrant filmmaker, faces challenges in preserving his legacy. Their stories highlight the intercultural competence necessary to understand and respect different cultural backgrounds and experiences.
How do Hugo and Isabelle’s friendship represent intercultural competence?
Hugo, a solitary orphan, and Isabelle, a girl with a different background, form a friendship that transcends their differences. Their ability to understand and support one another across cultural lines demonstrates the importance of intercultural competence, emphasizing how relationships can bridge divides
How does The Invention of Hugo Cabret address overcoming prejudices through intercultural competence?
Throughout the novel, characters like Hugo and Méliès face misunderstandings and prejudices based on their backgrounds. The story encourages readers to look beyond cultural assumptions and recognize the shared humanity that connects people from different backgrounds
