Themes and Characters in A Separate Peace

As the school year ends, Devon is taken over by the military for a parachute riggers school. Jean and his classmates face the reality of war, with Brinker and others planning to join the military. Jean reflects on his personal war at Devon, realizing that everyone faces an enemy in life. The novel ends with a dark note as the war invades Devon, leaving students cynical. Jean gains insight into the human condition, understanding that war stems from ignorance and the need for a personal enemy.

What does the school donate to the military?

• Gymnasium

• Library

• Quadrangle

• Auditorium

Who does Brinker introduce Gene to?

• His brother

• His father

• His teacher

• His friend

What does Brinker's father emphasize to Gene and Brinker?

• Honor and duty

• Friendship

• Wealth

• Education

What does Brinker criticize the older generation for?

• Being too strict

• Causing the war

• Not understanding youth

• Being too lenient

What does Gene observe in the locker room?

• Soldiers training

• Parachute riggers

• Students playing

• Teachers meeting

Where does Gene say his personal war was fought?

• In college

• In his hometown

• At Devon

• In the military

How did Gene's classmates react to the war?

• With excitement

• With indifference

• With various coping mechanisms

• With joy

What was unique about Finny's perspective?

• He was always afraid

• He never sensed an enemy

• He hated everyone

• He was always angry

What happens to Devon as the war progresses?

• It remains untouched

• It becomes a military camp

• It becomes a hospital

• It is destroyed

How do the students view the war?

• With honor

• With glory

• With cynicism

• With excitement