Lesson VIII, Lines 382-459.
Was the betrothal feast an important event in Grand Pre? So much thought of now? Explain 385-386. For what purpose were the people gathering? How did Acadian life differ from that of today? Why was hospitality greater under Benedict's roof? Who were some of the principal persons at the feast? Who is now introduced? Was there a peculiar sadness in the occurances of the day? Why?
We have three pictures strongly contrasted in this, the preceding and the succeeding lessons. Try to get a clear idea of each of these three scenes. Contrast the feast and the reception of the Mandate. Why refer to the solstice? What was the immediate effect of the news? Then what? Was it a time when character would show? Explain. Who shows clearly his temperament?
Father Felician's Rebuke.
Lesson IX, Lines 460-486.
(To me, this selection is one of the finest in the poem. It is a fine tribute to character. We have in this and the preceding lesson two pictures in marked contrast. Recall the effects the Mandate must have had on the pioneers; how we of the class would feel if we now received such an order. Think of the homes made by long years of patient toil, the familiar and much loved scenes—all that made life dear—must be left behind and life begun anew amid strange scenes and among strange people. What utter despair must have possessed them.)
What scene of wild passion Father Felician met when he opened the church door! Could force have quieted this mob? Could they have been made quiet? Then Father Felician enters, raises his hand and stillness reigns. What causes this great change? What wisdom does the priest show? Does he say much? To what does he turn their thoughts? Why? Who is the "Prince of Peace"? What great character in history had a like power over a multitude? Was it a great thing that the people could say from their hearts "O Father, Forgive Them"? Who said it before this? The evening service is held and quiet after the storm. How were their souls translated? What is the reference to Elijah?
Evangeline's Service. Shadows.
Lesson X, Lines 487-523.
What change here introduced? Why should it come in here? Any reason except a continuation of the story? (A well written play or story has a careful mixture of pathos and humor. Explain and apply.) Note lines 499-501. What was the source of Evangeline's great strength of character? Who was the prophet? Has the reference to the Angelus any suggestive sadness? Why graves of the living? Why did the thunder speak to her? What did it suggest?