Day 3

Madame Butterfly Lesson Plan

Discussion of Thought Questions

  1. 1

    How do Suzuki's and Butterfly's relationship with religion differ? How might Butterfly's focus on the "American God" reflect the broader situation of Act II?

    Suzuki has a very deep connection to her religion, it seems. She prayed in Act I and again prays at the beginning of Act II, this time to "grant that Butterfly shall weep no more!" Butterfly responds, "The Japanese gods are fat and lazy. I'm convinced that the American God is more persuasive and responds immediately to prayers." Thus, to Butterfly, it is not so much about the religion itself as it is about America, and what her conversion represents. She desperately wants to believe that Pinkerton is coming back...

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11017 literature essays, 2791 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in