The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky

The men of the Wild West inhabit a particular masculine ethos. What qualities do they value? Which of these qualities do you view positively, and which do you view negatively? Find evidence of these archetypes in contemporary culture and address ways that their representation has changed or remained constant.

Westerns are not only a genre of literature but also of film and television. Choose a film or TV series from the western genre, and indicate the ways it parallels the genre’s conventions presented in Crane’s story.

The story is told from an omniscient perspective; in other words, the narrator can describe the inner thoughts and observations of any character. Choose a character from the story, and retell it from their first-person perspective.

Consider the ways in which the ethos of the Wild West has come to represent the quintessential American character. In what cultural products is the pioneer lifestyle still celebrated or revered? Provide at least three examples.

Self-reliance is of primary importance among pioneers of the Old West, but modern life necessitates a high degree of interdependence. Which value do you think is more important in society? Explain your reasoning with examples from this text and from cultural events.

How do you think the author feels about Scratchy Wilson? Does he revile him, admire him, or pity him? Support your analysis with examples from the text.

The title of the text is “The Bride Comes to Yellow Sky.” However, the bride has few speaking roles and does not actively contribute to the action. What is her role in the story? Why does Crane reference her specifically in the title? Use examples from the text to support your argument.

The gendered roles of husband and wife are apparent in the story. How are they expected to complement each other, and what are their specific duties? Support your argument with examples from the text and examples from your own context.