Themes and Characters in 'The Death of the Hired Man'

The video discusses Robert Frost's poem 'The Death of the Hired Man,' focusing on the story of Silas, a hired man who returns to Mary and Warren's home to die. Mary shows compassion towards Silas, while Warren is reluctant due to past disappointments. The poem explores themes of home, coming and going, and the nature of death. It is structured as a dramatic dialogue in blank verse, resembling a one-act play. The video also highlights the poem's symbolism, particularly through Mary's character and the imagery of moonlight.

What is the primary setting at the beginning of the poem?

• A quiet countryside

• A bustling city

• A crowded theater

• A busy marketplace

Why does Mary meet Warren at the door?

• To show him a surprise

• To ask him to leave

• To prevent their conversation from being overheard

• To give him a gift

What is Silas's notable skill according to Warren?

• Carpentry

• Cooking

• Fishing

• Bundling hay

What does Mary believe about Silas's return?

• He wants to work again

• He has come home to die

• He is seeking forgiveness

• He is looking for a new job

What is Warren's response when Mary asks about Silas?

• He is awake

• He is dead

• He is gone

• He is sleeping

In what style is 'The Death of the Hired Man' written?

• Free verse

• Haiku

• Blank verse

• Sonnet

What theme is emphasized through the poem's focus on coming and going?

• The passage of time

• The nature of friendship

• The concept of home

• The inevitability of change

What imagery is used to describe Mary at the end of the poem?

• A teacher in class

• A child at play

• An angel of death

• A warrior in battle