A Very Large Expanse of Sea

Dramatic irony in a novel exists when a character (or the reader) knows something other characters do not. How does dramatic irony increase the conflict and emotional tension in the story? Explain the cause-and-effect relationship between events leading to Shirin’s and Ocean’s breakup in terms of its dramatic irony.

Yusef is a new acquaintance for Shirin; she believes it is easy to be around him. Although Yusef is present in only a few scenes of the novel, he is an important part of Shirin’s overall story. How is Yusef’s impression on Shirin important? How does Yusef serve as a foil to Ocean? Use two to three specific character details in your answer.

Shirin and Ocean’s relationship develops in its first stages via online chats (Instant Messenger), texting, and phone conversations. Much like an author characterizes setting through tone and details, an author characterizes relationships with traits and description. In this regard, what character traits can you use to describe the early relationship between Shirin and Ocean? What details in their early private conversations serve as evidence of these traits? Point out two to three different chat, text, or phone conversations as support in your analysis.

Shirin’s mother and Ocean’s mother are character foils (two characters whose opposite traits serve to highlight overall characterization). When juxtaposed, their differences are clear. Find evidence in the text to support the argument that the mothers are foils. Also consider that just because two characters contrast, it does not mean they do not share traits or opinions. How are the mothers alike? Add at least two similarities to your discussion.

Besides Ocean, which secondary character affects Shirin most in terms of conflict, goals, emotions, or any combination of the three? Discuss your choice in two to three points using evidence from the novel.

That Shirin’s family moves often has an important impact on her thoughts and opinions. Curiously, the setting of the novel is not detailed. What effect does this have on Shirin’s character development and arc? Also discuss in two to three points the effect the anonymity of the setting has on the novel’s thematic ideas of fear of commitment, complex family relationships, and finding one’s passions.

Male characters show strength and physical dominance throughout the book (for example, Ocean hits Coach Hart; Navid and the crew fight the boy who threw the cinnamon roll). How does Shirin feel about physical strength and dominance, especially regarding breakdancing? What actions and words show her fortitude and resolve?

The novel’s title is a metaphor filled with imagery. Create an alternative title for the novel of a single word. Analyze how your title befits the plot; thematic topics of fear, family, love, or identity; and/or the character conflicts in at least three well-supported points.