Short Stories Summaries & Questions

The Suit Written by Can Themba (1924 – 1967), a South African short story writer and journalist. His short stories and journalistic pieces reflect the shebeen culture and Sophiatown magic of the 1950s.

The Suit Summary The Suit is about a man called Philemon who is happily married but discovers that his wife, Matilda, is cheating on him. He makes her carry her lover’s suit everywhere and treat it like a visitor in their home. Because of his cruelty and her humiliation she eventually dies of a broken heart.

The Suit - Questions Where is The Suit set? Describe Philemon’s morning ritual. Who told Philemon about the infidelity? What role does this person play in Philemon’s life? What did Philemon do when he entered his house? What is meant with “German print” (p64)? What was Tilly’s punishment? Name TWO things that Philemon did that were abnormal that day. Explain why the Sunday outing was humiliating to Tilly. Who started the Cultural Clubs? List all the preparations made for the dinner party. How did the guests react to the Suit?

Lamb to the Slaughter Roald Dahl (1916 – 1990) was a British novelist, short story writer, fighter pilot and screenwriter. His short stories are known for their unexpected endings, and his children's books for their unsentimental, often very dark humour. Lamb to the Slaughter was first published in 1953.

Lamb to the Slaughter Summary Lamb to the Slaughter is about a devoted, pregnant wife – Mary Maloney - who murders her husband after he tells her he wants to leave her. As the wife of a policeman, she establishes an alibi, calls the police and ends up coaxing them into eating the murder weapon.

Lamb to the Slaughter - Questions How far pregnant was Mary? What did Patrick do that was unusual? Why does Mary start talking when she knows Patrick enjoys some quiet time after work? What did she get out of the freezer? At first, after the murder, Mary seems to welcome a death sentence. What makes her change her mind? Name the three items she purchased from the grocer. State the names of the two lead detectives. Name two objects they suggested as the murder weapon. How did Mary manipulate the police officers? Why is the setting ironic in view of how the story unfolds?