The Last Leaf
1. What is Johnsy’s illness? What can cure her—the medicine or the willingness to live?
Ans: Johnsy suffers from pneumonia, which makes her physically weak and mentally hopeless. Although medicine helps in recovery, it is her renewed will to live that truly cures her. The sight of the last leaf staying on the ivy vine restores her hope and strengthens her desire to survive.
2. Do you think the feeling of depression Johnsy has is common among teenagers?
Ans: Yes, such feelings can be common among teenagers. They may face stress, loneliness, or discouragement due to various challenges. Like Johnsy, they may sometimes lose hope, but support, care, and positive influence can help them overcome such emotions.
3. Behrman has a dream. What is it? Does it come true?
Ans: Behrman dreams of creating a great masterpiece. His dream is fulfilled when he paints the last leaf on the wall to give Johnsy hope. Although he sacrifices his life in the process, his painting becomes his true masterpiece.
4. What is Behrman’s masterpiece? What makes Sue say so?
Ans: Behrman’s masterpiece is the painted ivy leaf on the wall. Sue calls it a masterpiece because it saves Johnsy’s life by restoring her hope and will to live, making it more meaningful than any ordinary work of art.