- 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.
By traveling the world.
B.
By waiting, watching, and listening.
C.
By reading many books.
D.
By asking others for advice.
Correct Answer: B
Solution:
Mr. Lamb suggests that Derry can discover something unique by waiting, watching, and listening, implying that self-discovery comes from observation and introspection.
A.
He is reclusive and avoids social interactions.
B.
He values solitude and self-reflection.
C.
He is indifferent to the world around him.
D.
He is preparing for a future career in literature.
Correct Answer: B
Solution:
Mr. Lamb's habit of sitting in the sun and reading books indicates that he values solitude and self-reflection. He finds contentment in simple pleasures and introspection.
A.
As a place of solitude
B.
As a refuge from the world
C.
True or False
Correct Answer: True
Solution:
Mr. Lamb tells Derry that the world has a whole face and is there to be looked at.
Correct Answer: False
Solution:
Derry expresses frustration with the idea that people with disabilities should only be with others like themselves, as indicated in his conversation with Mr. Lamb.
Correct Answer: True
Solution:
Derry expresses a strong desire to return to Mr. Lamb's garden, indicating that not doing so would prevent him from venturing out into the world.
Correct Answer: False
Solution:
Mr. Lamb suggests that internal harm, such as burning oneself away inside, is worse than physical impairments.
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