Review Questions: Chapter 14

1.      At the beginning of the confrontation described in this chapter, the two groups of demonstrators converge near the hospital’s entranceway and find themselves “uncomfortably close to one another, their established territories temporarily abolished.”  They speak within their own groups in whispers as opposed to their normal routine of shouting at the opposing group.  What does the irony of this behavior say about the traditional tactics of the two groups?

2.      Throughout the confrontation which follows, Allison seems particularly concerned about how the demonstration will look on videotape.  What does this preoccupation on her part tell you about her motives?

3.      In the midst of his fight with Billy, we are told that Caldwell’s “emotions were such that his body behaved according to its own rules, which were indistinguishable in many ways from those of the younger man he struggled to control.”  Describe at least two ways in which this sentence can be interpreted.  Who is the “younger man” whom Caldwell now struggles to control?  Why does the issue of police brutality cross his mind at this moment?

4.      Consider how the demonstration and its aftermath must appear from the vantage point of Doctor Wheelan, who we see observing the altercation from the window of her office at the end of the chapter.  How many different instances and levels of conflict are at play in this entire confrontation?  How many distinct parties, both in plain view and out of view, are involved?  What do the two thoughts that occur to Wheelan as she observes the skirmish say about the fundamental nature of the confrontation being waged?