In M.C. Higgins, the Great, there are (at least) two homes to deal with: M.C.'s home and his best friend, Ben's. These two homes are like polar opposites, and as such, they represent totally different values. M.C.'s home is small and poor, but super tight-knit because it's just him and his immediate family. Ben's home is a compound, where a large, extended family (and some strangers) live and farm together in harmony. How those two homes conflict with each other is a major thread throughout the narrative, a source of tension and inspiration as the story unfolds.
Questions About The Home
- Does this book ultimately argue that owning land is moral or immoral?
- Is M.C. right to stay on Sarah's Mountain or should he leave?
- How is M.C.'s home different from Ben's home on the Mound? Are there any similarities?
- How do M.C's ancestors influence his view of home?
Chew on This
This book makes it very clear that people shouldn't own land because it belongs to everyone and should be shared.
This book argues that if you don't own land, you can never truly have a home.