воскресенье, 9 марта 2014 г.

"Theatre" by Maugham (Chapters 3-6)

I. Explain in English or give definitions of and find contextual synonyms for the following words and phrases:

Asset - a single item of ownership having exchange value
A sumptuous supper - the evening meal amazing its abudance
Extravagance - an extravagant action, notion
Thrift – wise economy in the management of money
To remonstrate - to say or plead in protest, objection, or disapproval.
Equanimity - calm emotions when dealing with problems or pressure.
at a loose end  - in an uncertain or unsettled situation or position.
completion of something - to end smth.
to jeopardize - to put in jeopardy; hazard; risk; imperil.
alacrity - readiness, promptness, or willingness.
susceptible to - easily influenced or affected.
obsequious - characterized by or showing servile complaisance or deference.
retainer - a servant or attendant who has served a family for many years.

II. Find quotations in the text. State their meaning and their function.

"Neither a borrower nor a lender be," - This quotation characterizes Michael. He is a thrifty person.


"Lord, what fools these mortals be,"  - This quotation shows Jimmie's anxiety about relationship between Michael and Julia.

III. Explain the metaphor "she is a millstone round his neck." Who does it refer to?
It refers to Julia. Marriage and career of an actor are hardly compatible with each other.

IV. Comment on the context of the following phrases:

1."He was too modest to resent an unfavourable criticism."
It refers to Michael. I think he was unable to resent in general. Michael was an inefficient actor and he realized it therefore he accepted the criticism as a truth.
2. "... after all he was born a gentleman." This phrase also refers to Michael. Here we can see his parents' opinon. They could't accept that their son chose the stage career instead of military one. They believed being born a gentleman he was to become the military.
3. "'I suppose it's beastly of me,' she thought, 'but thank God, thank God.'"  It refers to Julia who is happy that her husband failed with the contract. She understands that it is the bad news, but she is glad to it because she wants her husband to be with her.



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