- Identify the main themes of the play.
- Analyze the relationship between Derry and Mr. Lamb.
- Discuss the significance of physical appearance in the play.
- Evaluate the impact of societal perceptions on individuals with disabilities.
- Explore the concept of friendship as portrayed in the play.
- Examine the role of isolation and connection in Derry's character development.
- Assess the use of symbolism in Mr. Lamb's garden.
On the face of It
Learning Objectives
TopRevision Notes & Summary
TopOn The Face Of It - Notes
Overview
- A play featuring an old man, Mr. Lamb, and a small boy, Derry, who form an unexpected friendship in Mr. Lamb's garden.
- Explores themes of isolation, acceptance, and the nature of friendship.
Characters
- Mr. Lamb: An old man with a tin leg who enjoys gardening and has a positive outlook on life.
- Derry: A fourteen-year-old boy with a burned face, struggling with feelings of alienation and self-worth.
Key Themes
- Friendship: The bond that develops between Mr. Lamb and Derry despite their differences.
- Perception of Beauty: Discussion on how society views physical appearance versus inner qualities.
- Isolation: Both characters experience loneliness, but they cope in different ways.
Important Scenes
Scene One
- Derry enters Mr. Lamb's garden, initially startled by Mr. Lamb's presence.
- Dialogue highlights Derry's fear and Mr. Lamb's reassurance.
Scene Two
- Derry's conversation with his mother reveals his desire to visit Mr. Lamb despite her warnings.
- Derry expresses frustration about being judged by his appearance.
Scene Three
- Derry returns to Mr. Lamb's garden, showing his desire for connection.
- Mr. Lamb falls, and Derry's emotional response indicates his growth and attachment to Mr. Lamb.
Quotes
- Mr. Lamb: “People are never just nothing. Never.”
- Derry: “I hate it here.”
- Mr. Lamb: “Everything's yours if you want it.”
Questions for Reflection
- What draws Derry towards Mr. Lamb despite his initial reluctance?
- How does Mr. Lamb's perspective on life challenge Derry's views?
- In what ways do both characters cope with their feelings of isolation?
Practice Test – MCQs, True/False
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Multiple Choice Questions
A.
He agrees with Derry.
B.
He tells Derry that he should not care about such things.
C.
He suggests that Derry might be surprised.
D.
He changes the subject.
Correct Answer: C
Solution:
Mr. Lamb suggests that Derry might be surprised, implying that he should not be so sure about people's reactions.
A.
He is proud of his appearance
B.
He is indifferent to his appearance
C.
He is afraid of his appearance
D.
He is confident despite his appearance
Correct Answer: C
Solution:
Derry expresses fear when he looks in the mirror and sees his burned face.
A.
Friendships are based on mutual interests.
B.
Friendships require formal introductions and knowledge of personal details.
C.
Friendships can exist without knowing all personal details.
True or False
Correct Answer: False
Solution:
Derry's mother is skeptical and warns Derry not to go back to Mr. Lamb's place.
Correct Answer: False
Solution:
Derry's mother is skeptical about Mr. Lamb and does not believe he has anything valuable to say to Derry.
Correct Answer: True
Solution:
Derry expresses frustration that people focus on his appearance rather than his abilities or personality.
Correct Answer: True
Solution:
Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to not be afraid of others and suggests that fear is unnecessary, as shown in their discussions.
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