Developing Critical Thinking Skills through Reading - Part 2

In relation to Irving's commentary (found in the extract in the previous post) of the two groups of people he met in The Country Church, how do the images below correspond to his opinions?

Now, consider the following and link the probable meanings with your answers to the questions above.

Use of Language	Probable Meanings
unpretending great	`great' - in terms of cultured behaviour, inherent higher social standing; self-assured enough to be unassuming, no need to pretend?
arrogant little	`little' - in terms of social achievements, character and yet, proud because of accumulated wealth
titled rank... accompanied with true nobility of soul	higher social status derived from one's birthright, play on the word `nobility' - the aristocratic upbringing leading to a personality that is selfless, kind and helpful
aspirings of vulgarity	`vulgarity' - the common and crude persons who seek to elevate themselves in society

What you find above is Irving's opinion about the two groups.  Of course, you may have different ideas about the two groups since in your experience, you may have come across the kinds of behaviour mentioned above in the pompous `great' and/or noble `little'.

If you are interested in dwelling further into literary analysis or in enhancing critical thinking skills, join our lessons, at The Pear Tree Centre for Education, on reading comprehension and literary analysis.