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Copywork
About This Passage
Dr. Dorian's central argument — that the ordinary is itself miraculous — captured in three carefully balanced sentences. Transcribing this passage puts the chapter's philosophical claim into the hand, not just the ear. The rhythm (two admissions, then the pivot on 'But') is a model of reasoned reflection.
I don't understand how a spider learned to spin a web in the first place. When the words appeared, everyone said they were a miracle. But nobody pointed out that the web itself is a miracle.
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Discussion Questions
Narration Prompt
Retell Chapter 14 in six to eight sentences. Move from the kitchen scene through Mrs. Arable's drive to Dr. Dorian, the doctor's argument about webs as miracles, his remarks on children and silence, the questions about Fern's well-being, the introduction of Henry Fussy, and Mrs. Arable's final relief.
Discussion Questions
- Mrs. Arable insists Fern 'must not invent things,' yet her own curiosity pulls her into the fish story. What does E.B. White reveal about the relationship between adult skepticism and the human hunger for narrative?
- Dr. Dorian claims the web itself is a miracle — as miraculous as any writing in it. Evaluate his argument. Is he elevating the ordinary to the miraculous, or is he redefining what 'miracle' means entirely?
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Vocabulary Builder
Item 1
An event or phenomenon regarded as wondrous, inexplicable by ordinary means.
Item 2
Called explicit attention to; indicated or directed notice toward.
Item 3
Inclined toward friendly company; enjoying the presence and conversation of others.
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Critical Thinking
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