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ENG 382 - Instructor Katie Ayer - Early 20th Century Canadian Literature

Topics - Barometer Rising

Hugh MacLennan’s Barometer Rising

  • In Barometer Rising, Hugh MacLennan explores the themes of identity and belonging in the context of Canadian history. How does the novel depict the struggles of characters to define themselves in relation to their country, and what does this reveal about the nature of Canadian identity?
  • Barometer Rising is set during World War I and the Halifax Explosion, two significant events in Canadian history. How does MacLennan use these historical events as a backdrop to explore the themes of loss and resilience in the novel?
  • MacLennan's use of symbolism in Barometer Rising is central to the novel's exploration of the human experience. Analyze the symbolism of the barometer in the novel and discuss its significance in the context of the characters' struggles and the themes of the novel.

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Then, search the CUE Library catalogue and some of the Library Databases listed below.

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Suggested Search Terms

These terms may not apply to all essay topics. Use your judgement to select the strategies and sources that will fit with your specific topic. Make sure to retain the details in the suggested search terms below, which may include the term su: and some unusual punctuation like quotation marks.

  • "Barometer rising" AND MacLennan
  • identity
  • SU: Canadian Identity
  • loss OR grief OR bereavement OR death
  • symbolism OR meaning OR symbol

Links to helpful sources:

Some articles are only available through interlibrary loan, watch the video Requesting Articles through Interlibrary Loan to learn how to order a copy.

New, William H. "The Storm and After: Imagery and Symbolism in Hugh MacLennan's Barometer Rising." Queen's Quarterly, vol. 74, 1964, pp. 302-313.