Question 1: Identify the literary device used in the phrase 'the best thing she ever did' and explain its effect.

Answer: It is an example of irony, highlighting the conflicting feelings about her actions and emphasising her intense emotional state.

Question 2: Describe how Morrison's use of imagery in the scene helps to convey Sethe's emotional turmoil.

Answer: The vivid imagery portrays the intensity of her feelings, making her desperation and maternal love palpable to the reader.

Question 3: What is the significance of the flashback technique in understanding Sethe’s decision?

Answer: It allows readers to see her past trauma and understand her emotional state, making her actions more comprehensible.

Question 4: Analyse how Morrison’s choice of diction contributes to the portrayal of Sethe’s internal conflict.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 5: Identify a metaphor Morrison uses in the scene and explain its purpose.

Answer: An example might be 'the past pressed down into her like a weight', illustrating the burden of trauma she carries.

Question 6: Discuss how the narrative’s perspective influences your understanding of Sethe's decision.

Answer: The shifting perspectives provide insight into her internal struggle and make her choices more nuanced.

Question 7: Choose the correct answer: Which technique is Morrison using when she presents the scene from multiple viewpoints?

Answer: c) Multiple perspective

Question 8: Explain how the language used in the scene reflects the themes of love and trauma.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 9: Write a short paragraph analysing the impact of Morrison’s word choice on your perception of Sethe’s character.

Answer: See full answer key

Question 10: Based on the extract, suggest how Morrison’s style enhances the emotional intensity of the scene.

Answer: Her use of vivid imagery, charged diction, and shifting perspective heightens emotional engagement and deepens understanding of Sethe’s psyche.