Two Kinds

During an argument, Suyuan says, “Only two kinds of daughters […] Those who are obedient and those who follow their own mind! Only one kind of daughter can live in this house.” How does the practice of obedience influence June’s character development as a child and as a woman looking back on the events of the story?

Teaching Suggestion: Before discussing the story, develop a class definition of “obedience.” Should obedience be blind or measured? How does one know what kind of obedience to apply to a situation with someone in power? Why is obedience something parents want for their young children? Do they also desire obedience from their adult children? How does one grow independent and self-sufficient if always obeying authority?

Differentiation Suggestion: For visual learners, a two-column chart might be used to separate the kinds of obedience from their influence on June’s character development.