Bread Givers

In what ways does Shenah encourage Reb Smolinsky’s misogyny? How does she push against his belief system? Why does Shenah remain faithful to Reb Smolinsky, even after he has hurt her and her children? Provide textual examples.

Yezierska highlights The Complexities of Assimilation and Identity through Sara’s struggles with growing up in America. How does Sara combat her loneliness? How do her feelings of loneliness connect to her crushes on Mr. Edman and Morris Lipkin?

Describe the roles of Bessie and Mashah. In what ways are these characters foils to each other? What is the significance of Bessie taking the name “burden-bearer” and Mashah taking the name “empty-head”?

How does Sara reconcile her traditional beliefs with her modern aspirations at the end of the novel? Do the power dynamics between Reb Smolinsky and Sara shift at the end of the novel, or has Sara conceded all her power to him? Support your answer with textual evidence.

How does Yezierska underscore the misogynistic contradiction that women must be both beautiful for their husbands and work extremely hard? How do Fania and Mashah’s husbands play into this patriarchal belief? Provide textual examples.

What is the significance of the term “bread giver”? How do the women in the novel fulfill this role when the men do not, and why is this significant?

Is Reb Smolinsky capable of changing his mindset, or is he trapped within his own worldview? Support your argument with textual evidence.

Describe the significance of Hugo and Sara’s relationship. What is the source of their connection? How does Hugo support Sara in her struggle with her identity?