Answer these questions about "The Namesake"
. Write two body paragraphs explaining what you believe to be Gogol's idea of home and his identity across his four main life stages: child, student, young adult (in college), and adult.
. Be sure to discuss how Point-of-View is used to help the reader know Gogol's idea of home.
. Use at least two direct quotes from the novel to support your ideas.
In "The Namesake," Gogol's idea of home and his identity evolve as he navigates through different life stages. As a child, Gogol struggles with his name and the tension between his Indian heritage and American upbringing. The reader sees this turmoil through the third-person limited point of view, which allows us to delve into Gogol's thoughts and feelings. For example, when Gogol is asked to write an essay about his name, he feels a sense of embarrassment and frustration, as shown in the passage: "Why is there so little in the world of people who look like him? And why does it have to be him, Algernon, of all people, who gets this grief?" This quote demonstrates Gogol's struggle with his dual identity and the notion of home being a place where he is understood and accepted.
As Gogol progresses into his student and young adult years, his idea of home further shifts. While attending college, he explores his independence and embarks on relationships that shape his identity. The point of view shifts to first-person during these stages, allowing us to hear Gogol's inner thoughts and reflections. For instance, when Gogol visits his family home during a break from college, he experiences a sense of displacement and disconnect, as depicted in the passage: "He can't wait to get back to his life in the city, in his own small room where things are familiar." This quote illustrates Gogol's struggle to reconcile his past with his present and the idea of home as a place that is both comforting and confining.
As Gogol transitions into adulthood, his concept of home becomes more defined. Through his career, relationships, and the process of understanding his heritage, Gogol begins to embrace his name and the complexities of his upbringing. The shifting point of view helps the reader witness Gogol's growth and self-discovery. For instance, when Gogol revisits his family home after his father's passing, he finds solace in the familiar surroundings and memories, as shown in the passage: "He sees now that the house is a refuge, a shelter of memories that define him and his sense of self." This quote reflects Gogol's newfound understanding of home as a place that encompasses his past, present, and future, and his acceptance of his identity as a composite of his cultural heritage and personal experiences.