1. Maxine Hong Kingston 2

2. Multiculturalism
MHK’s formal choices complicate the multiculturalist cliché of “hearing other stories.”
The assumption is that these ‘stories’ will fit into, and not challenge, pre-existing stories about the “diversity” and “plurality” of America.

3. Mediation
Everything MHK tells us about her family history is mediated.
P 58-60

4. Unpacking
The narrator’s mother has never had her own space.
P 61

5. Historical Context
MHK’s mother’s story is taking place after the Chinese Revolution.
Point: this is a time of overturned traditions and disrupted cultural values.

6. Medical Knowledge
The medical school distinguishes between ancient knowledge and western knowledge.
But: the school teaches both.
Plus: the values of the revolution.
P 62-3.
P 74

7. Memory
The story of her mother at medical school enables MHK to reflect on the nature of memory.
P 64

8. Ghosts These memories include ghosts.
If we don’t believe in ghosts, then how do we interpret the presence of ghosts in a non-fiction memoir?
P 68-9

9. Mother What kind of person is MHK’s mother?
Why is she represented in this way?
Why is MHK remembering this story?

10. Mother and Friends
MHK’s medical training is one of strength and female solidarity--despite some of the misogynist traditions of Chinese society.
Point: within dominated groups, there is always solidarity and resistance.

11. Reclaimed History
It is important for MHK to construct an alternate history of Chinese femininity.
Is it important to construct alternate histories? Why?

12. MHK The narrator sometimes interrupts her mother’s story. P 82.
What is the significance of this interruption? What does it suggest?

13. MHK and Mother How does MHK deal with her mother?
How does her mother make her feel?
Is this a tragic story?