Catch-22 Seminar Prep Ch 1-11
Please answer the questions assigned to you. Answers must be typed, MLA format, in
complete sentences with quotes introduced and integrated properly. Write at least 200
words per answer, NOT INCLUDING your quotes.
Questions 1 & 2:
Per 3 - Anderson-Matsui; Period 4 - Balasubramanian-Kovarik
Questions 3 & 4:
Per. 3 - McComb-Yi; Period 4 - Leask-Wyckoff
1. Throughout the first eleven chapters of the novel there are numerous examples of
how those in charge make decisions. Cite and analyze at least three examples from the
text (yes, this means quotes with page numbers) that show how does Heller furthers the
theme that decisions are made on a random basis? What is the combined effect of
these examples? How do they serve to further the satirical tone of the novel? DO NOT
RECYCLE EXAMPLES FROM PREVIOUS ANSWERS.
2. As Heller introduces his characters, the reader may initially get the impression that all
of these characters are crazy. However, knowing that the novel is a satire allows us to
distinguish between those who are truly mad and those who initially appear to be crazy
but upon further consideration turn out to be actually, ironically, quite sane. Cite and
analyze and least two examples of characters from each category (truly insane and
ironically sane) and explain how these examples further Heller’s larger question of
whether insanity is the sanest action in a time of war (yes, this means quotes with page
numbers). DO NOT RECYCLE EXAMPLES FROM PREVIOUS ANSWERS.
3. How do different events in the novel parallel each other (how are they strikingly
similar) and what purpose do such parallels serve? Cite and analyze at least three
examples of parallel events from the first eleven chapters (yes, this means quotes with
page numbers), then identify and explain what common theme these events share
(remember that a theme is not one word). Note that parallel events are distinct from
repetition, which is the same event told again and again. DO NOT RECYCLE
EXAMPLES FROM PREVIOUS ANSWERS.
4. Much of Heller’s novel deals with the theme of the insignificance of human beings on
the planet. Within the world of Catch-22, one can die and the death is hardly noticed by
others. Cite and analyze three examples from the text that illustrate this theme (yes, this
means quotes with page numbers). DO NOT RECYCLE EXAMPLES FROM
PREVIOUS ANSWERS.