EN-210 Flannery O'Connor

Where is the family going for their vacation?

Florida, despite the Grandmother’s objections who prefers East Tennessee.

Why does the Grandmother want to go to East Tennessee?

She has nostalgic memories of the place and wants to warn the family about The Misfit, an escaped criminal.

The mother has a face as 'broad and innocent as a __________.'

Cabbage.

Who are the three named family members in the story?

Bailey (the father), John Wesley (the eldest son), and June Star (the daughter).

What does the Grandmother secretly bring along on the trip?

Her cat, Pitty Sing, hiding it in a basket.

Why does the Grandmother get dressed up for the drive?

She wants to be recognized as a lady if she were to die in an accident.

Why does John Wesley want to get through Georgia quickly?

He finds it a boring and unpleasant state.

What is in the middle of the cotton field they pass?

A graveyard with five or six graves.

What is the name of the restaurant they stop at for lunch?

The Tower, owned by Red Sammy Butts, who has a monkey chained outside.

What happens to Red Sammy a week before the family's visit?

He was robbed after trusting strangers with credit.

Through which town do they drive after leaving the restaurant?

Toombsboro, a name that foreshadows death.

What does the Grandmother falsely tell the children about the plantation house?

That it has a hidden panel with treasure.

What 'horrible thought' does the Grandmother have before the accident?

That the house she insisted on visiting is not in Georgia.

What causes the accident?

The cat jumps onto Bailey’s shoulders, startling him.

Why is June Star disappointed about the accident?

It wasn’t as dramatic as she expected.

What does the mother hope for after the accident?

That someone will come help them.

Describe Bailey’s shirt and face after the accident.

His shirt is blue with parrots, and his face is red with anger.

What are the names of the three criminals?

The Misfit, Bobby Lee, and Hiram.

What does the Grandmother keep telling The Misfit?

That he is a good man.

What did The Misfit’s father warn about?

You can do anything you want if you don’t get caught.

What did the prison psychologist tell The Misfit?

He was insane.

Why does The Misfit wish he was present when Jesus raised the dead?

To know for sure if Jesus had divine power, affecting his beliefs on right and wrong.