Red Scarf Girl

Though it is filtered through the context of the social and political upheaval during China’s Cultural Revolution, in many ways, Ji-li Jiang’s memoir is a universal coming-of-age story. What aspects of Ji-li’s coming of age remain relatable as universal markers of growing up, and which aspects are complicated by the tumultuous political climate around her? Consider the following questions as you develop your ideas:

• What aspects of Ji-li’s school struggles and conflicts could be considered typical of all students? Which aspects are unique to the Cultural Revolution?
• In what ways are Ji-li’s frustrations with her parents and siblings typical of adolescent development? Which frustrations stem from the unique political pressure of the Cultural Revolution?
• Why does Ji-li struggle to reconcile her familial upbringing with the ideas and attitudes expressed by her peers? Is this a typical struggle of coming of age, or is this a particular struggle Ji-li feels due to the political climate?
• What influences shape Ji-li’s actions and beliefs? Would similar influences present themselves in a different social or political context? Why or why not?
• How does separating the universal aspects of coming of age from the particularities of growing up during the Cultural Revolution deepen readers’ understanding of the text’s themes and messages?
• What does Ji-li Jiang intend to share about the processes of her coming of age during the Cultural Revolution?