Summary
Welcome, viewers, to a captivating journey into the dramatic world of “The Citadel” by A. J. Cronin. In this YouTube video, I will delve into a compelling excerpt from the novel, unfolding a poignant tale of love, loss, and the unexpected twists of fate.
Immerse yourself in the small Welsh mining town of Blaenelly, where a young and ambitious medical practitioner, Andrew Manson, finds himself entangled in the highs and lows of life. As he navigates the challenges of a night filled with both despair and hope, the story unfolds, revealing the profound impact of one fateful evening on Andrew's journey in the medical profession.
Join me as I explore the intricate layers of this literary masterpiece, dissecting the emotions, dilemmas, and triumphs that shape the characters and their destinies. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, as we analyse key moments and reflect on the profound themes woven into the fabric of "The Citadel."
Late at night, Andrew Manson returned to Bryngower after a disappointing evening with Christine, the girl he loved. Joe Morgan, a burly driller, urgently awaited him, revealing that his wife, expecting their first child, required immediate attention. Unaware of the impact this night call would have on his future, Andrew accompanied Joe to Number 12 Blaina Terrace.
Walking in silence, Andrew's mind was clouded, preoccupied with personal concerns. Little did he know that this night's events would alter his perspective on life in Blaenelly. Upon reaching the house, Joe hesitated to enter, expressing trust in Andrew's abilities.
Inside, a narrow stair led to a small, modestly furnished bedroom where Mrs. Morgan, an elderly midwife, and Mrs. Morgan's mother awaited. Andrew, realizing the need for patience, assured them he wouldn't leave. In the kitchen, the old woman offered tea, understanding the tension in the air.
Overwrought but determined, Andrew decided to stay, forgoing the chance of rest at home. His thoughts wandered to the complexities of marriage, influenced by recent events he had witnessed. The conflict between his rational mind and overwhelming emotions left him bewildered.
As the night unfolded, Andrew faced a challenging delivery. The birth was a harsh struggle, and as dawn approached, the child was born lifeless. Shocked and disappointed by this unforeseen outcome, Andrew faced a critical decision—whether to focus on resuscitating the child or attend to the fragile state of the mother, Susan Morgan.
Driven by instinct, Andrew prioritized saving Susan's life. Swiftly administering the necessary treatment, he succeeded in stabilizing her condition. Only then did he turn his attention back to the lifeless child.
Kneeling beside the still form, Andrew felt a shiver of horror. Despite promises made and efforts exerted, the child appeared beyond revival. In a desperate attempt, Andrew initiated an unconventional method, shuttling the child between hot and cold baths. The minutes dragged on, sweat drenched Andrew's exhausted form, but the child remained lifeless.
As despair settled in, the midwife declared the child stillborn, urging Andrew to accept the inevitable. Ignoring her pleas, Andrew persisted, fervently working to revive the infant. Then, miraculously, the child responded with a cry, signalling newfound life. Overwhelmed by the moment, Andrew handed the child to the nurse, marking a triumphant end to a night of despair and hope.
In the aftermath, amidst the cluttered room and the prayers of those present, Andrew felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Despite the chaos and exhaustion, he realized he had made a tangible impact. Walking through the awakening streets of Blaenelly, he couldn't help but think, "I've done something real at last."
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Challenging word and phrase meanings
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Bryngower – a fictional Welsh town; symbolic of working-class settings in rural Wales.
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burly driller – a strong, muscular man who works in a physically demanding job, like mining.
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before time – referring to the baby coming earlier than the expected due date.
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contemplation of his own affairs – reflecting on personal issues or problems.
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listless – lacking energy or enthusiasm.
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premonition – a strong feeling that something is about to happen, especially something unpleasant.
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strain – intense stress or tension, especially in difficult situations.
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lit by an oil lamp – a room illuminated by an oil-fueled light source, often indicative of poor conditions.
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wrought – agitated or emotionally exhausted.
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flaccid – soft and hanging loosely, especially relating to a weakened body.
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asphyxia pallida – a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, causing a pale appearance.
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smash a glass ampule – breaking a small sealed glass container holding medicine.
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haggard – looking exhausted and unwell, typically from fatigue or worry.
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sodden newspapers – wet and soaked pieces of paper, likely due to fluid spillage.
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ewer – a large jug used for holding water, often in homes without modern plumbing.
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stark consternation – a feeling of shock or dismay, typically at something unexpected.
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slashed cord – refers to the hastily cut umbilical cord of the newborn.
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muddled thoughts – confused or disorganized thinking.
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perceptive – having the ability to understand or notice things quickly, especially subtle details.
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frantic race – desperate or rushed efforts in a critical situation.
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plunging into the bath – dipping quickly into a body of water, often in an emergency situation.
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heave – a deep breath or strong movement, especially in a medical context.
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convulsive heave – an involuntary, sudden movement or breath.
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idyllic – extremely happy, peaceful, or picturesque, often unrealistically so.
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ether – a common anaesthetic used in medical procedures during the early 20th century.
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hypodermic syringe – a small syringe used for injecting substances into the body.
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pallid body – a body that is pale, indicating a lack of life or health.
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bach – a Welsh term of endearment, meaning "little" or "dear one."
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quaint lethargy of spirit – a peculiar sense of tiredness or sluggishness.
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futile – incapable of producing any useful result; pointless.
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resuscitate – to revive someone from unconsciousness or apparent death.
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shrewish – describing a bad-tempered or aggressively assertive woman.
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flung down the syringe – a dramatic action where the syringe is dropped or thrown quickly.
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clenched hands – tight fists, indicating worry, frustration, or anxiety.
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juggler’s technique – metaphorically refers to handling several tasks or situations simultaneously.
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iridescent bubble – a bubble showing luminous colours that seem to change from different angles, symbolizing life.
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lingering tension – a continued feeling of stress or nervousness after a critical situation.
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spent and slow – exhausted and moving at a sluggish pace.
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devotion – strong love or loyalty, particularly in the context of relationships or personal commitments.
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dreamed her way through the anaesthetic – refers to the mother being unconscious due to anaesthesia, in a dream-like state.
Critical Summary
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In this excerpt from A.J. Cronin's The Citadel, Andrew Manson, a newly graduated doctor, is thrust into a challenging situation in a small Welsh mining town. Manson, who has just begun his practice under Dr. Edward Page, is summoned to assist with a difficult childbirth at Joe Morgan's home. Morgan and his wife have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child after twenty years of marriage.
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As Manson arrives at the Morgans' modest home, he is greeted by Joe, who is visibly anxious about his wife. Inside, Manson finds Mrs. Morgan, her elderly mother, and a midwife waiting. Despite his exhaustion and personal concerns, Manson is determined to stay and ensure a successful delivery. His thoughts are preoccupied with his own troubled romantic and professional experiences, which create a backdrop of introspection and doubt.
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The scene is marked by intense emotional and physical strain on Manson, who is ultimately successful in resuscitating the baby. The narrative concludes with Manson leaving the Morgans’ home, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment and validation, reflecting on the real impact he has made in his medical career.
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The excerpt highlights the themes of personal struggle, professional dedication, and the transformative power of medical practice. Manson's initial disillusionment is replaced by a profound sense of purpose and achievement, underscoring the significant emotional and ethical dimensions of his role as a doctor. The vivid portrayal of the childbirth scene, combined with Manson's internal conflict and eventual triumph, offers a compelling glimpse into the life of a young physician confronting the raw realities of his profession.
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During the delivery, Manson faces a dire situation: the child is born lifeless. Struggling against the grim reality of the stillbirth, he experiences a profound sense of despair but remains resolute. Utilizing a drastic technique involving alternating hot and cold water baths, he performs a vigorous and desperate attempt to revive the baby. His persistence pays off when the child begins to show signs of life.
Overall, Birth is a powerful excerpt that explores themes of human struggle, professional duty, and emotional resilience. Through Andrew’s journey, Cronin illustrates the profound impact that a single event can have on an individual’s sense of purpose and self-worth.
Here is a character sketch of all the characters
Explore a world of characters with our engaging content that brings learning to life. Dive into fascinating shades and tinges of characters used in the story and expand your horizons.
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Andrew Manson
Andrew Manson, the protagonist, is a young doctor freshly out of medical school. He is dedicated, perceptive, and willing to take on challenging tasks. Despite being exhausted and preoccupied with his personal life and the complexities of human relationships, he remains professional and does not abandon his duty. His initial lack of enthusiasm is overshadowed by his commitment to the well-being of his patients, particularly in the critical moments of childbirth. Andrew’s instinct, quick thinking, and determination ultimately save the life of the child, making him a hero of the moment. His reflection after the successful resuscitation of the baby shows his desire for validation in his career, as he thinks, “I’ve done something real at last.” Andrew is sensitive and conflicted about relationships, revealing his vulnerability and emotional depth.
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Joe Morgan
Joe Morgan is a burly driller who has been married for almost twenty years but is now anxiously awaiting the birth of his first child. He is nervous, stressed, and hopeful throughout the narrative. His pacing outside the house reflects the intense emotional strain he feels. Despite his anxiety, Joe trusts Andrew completely and believes that the young doctor will do well for him and his wife. His relief and joy when Andrew tells him that both his wife and child are all right show his deep love and concern for his family.
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Susan Morgan
Susan Morgan, Joe’s wife, is not physically present as an active character due to her condition in childbirth. However, through the dialogue of others, it is clear that she is deeply invested in having a child and is even willing to endure the risk of pain and discomfort by avoiding chloroform if it could harm the baby. Susan represents the strength and emotional resilience of a mother-to-be, and her desire for the child underscores the anticipation and hope surrounding the event.
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Mrs. Morgan (Susan’s Mother)
Mrs. Morgan, Susan’s mother, is a tall, grey-haired woman of nearly seventy. She exudes wisdom, experience, and patience, having witnessed many such situations in life. She plays a subtle yet significant role, staying calm and steady during the process, reflecting the typical resilience of an elderly matriarch. Her interactions with Andrew, such as offering him tea, reflect her understanding of the long, anxious wait. Her prayers and silence as Andrew struggles to revive the baby further depict her deep longing for her grandchild.
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The Midwife
The midwife is stout and elderly, and her presence in the room is vital. She assists in the delivery but is not as confident or active in the resuscitation process. Her fear and suggestion that the baby is stillborn show her emotional vulnerability and her inclination toward accepting defeat. However, she also respects Andrew’s authority and follows his instructions. When the child is revived, her emotional outburst, "Dear Father in heaven," signifies her relief and belief in the miracle of life.
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Christine
Christine is Andrew’s love interest, though she doesn’t appear in person in the excerpt. Andrew’s thoughts are preoccupied with her during the long hours of waiting, revealing his deep emotional connection to her. He idealizes Christine and thinks of her as a symbol of purity and hope, which contrasts with the dismal marriages he witnesses around him. His internal conflict between his heart and mind regarding relationships is evident as he tries to reconcile his love for Christine with the reality of failed marriages he sees in others.
Conclusion
Each character in this story contributes to the atmosphere of tension, hope, and relief that culminates in the miracle of life, making the event deeply emotional and significant for Andrew Manson’s journey as a doctor.
The Theme
The theme of the excerpt from A.J. Cronin's The Citadel revolves around the conflict between personal doubt and professional duty, as well as the transformative power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Andrew Manson's internal struggles with disillusionment and uncertainty about his personal life are contrasted with the life-and-death situation he faces as a doctor. His dedication and determination to revive the seemingly stillborn child reflect the theme of hope and the triumph of human effort over despair. The story also explores the idea of fulfilment through service, as Manson finds meaning and purpose in his work, despite his earlier feelings of doubt and failure. It underscores how moments of crisis can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
Questions and Answers
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How does the excerpt from "The Citadel" set the tone for the overall narrative?
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The excerpt sets a tone of suspense and urgency, hinting at the unforeseen events that will shape Andrew's journey in Blaenelly. The night setting, combined with Joe Morgan's anticipation, creates an atmosphere of impending drama.
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What emotions does Andrew Manson experience as he returns to Bryngower after his evening with Christine?
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Andrew is filled with disappointment and contemplation. His dull and listless feelings hint at a personal struggle, foreshadowing the emotional complexities he will face in the narrative.
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In what ways does Joe Morgan's urgency impact the unfolding events in the story?
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Joe's urgency serves as a catalyst, drawing Andrew into a critical situation. It propels the narrative forward, revealing the unexpected turn of events that will shape Andrew's role in the medical practice.
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How does the night air and the setting contribute to the atmosphere as Andrew and Joe head to Number 12 Blama Terrace?
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The cool night air and quiet mystery enhance the atmosphere, creating a sense of anticipation and foreshadowing. The setting amplifies the gravity of the situation Andrew is about to face.
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Explore Andrew's internal conflict as he contemplates his own affairs while facing a crucial medical situation.
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Andrew's internal conflict reveals the tension between his personal life and professional responsibilities. This conflict foreshadows the challenges he will grapple with throughout the narrative.
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What role does the elderly midwife play in the unfolding events, and how does she perceive Andrew's actions?
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The elderly midwife adds wisdom and experience to the unfolding events. Her perception of Andrew's actions may serve as a barometer for the moral and ethical dimensions of the medical challenges he faces.
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How does the author use the environment, such as the small bedroom and the 1 am lamp, to create a vivid setting?
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The small, poorly furnished bedroom and the 1 am lamp create a sense of intimacy and isolation. This setting adds to the realism and intensity of the unfolding events, making the reader feel immersed in the scene.
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Analyze Andrew's decision to stay and forgo the chance of going home, considering his mental and emotional state.
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Andrew's decision to stay showcases his commitment to his medical duties, even at the expense of his personal well-being. This decision sets the stage for the challenges he will face and underscores his dedication to his profession.
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What internal struggles does Andrew face regarding his perception of marriage, influenced by recent events he witnessed?
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Andrew's internal struggles highlight the contrast between his idealized perception of marriage and the harsh realities he observes in the lives of those around him. This conflict sets the stage for his evolving understanding of relationships.
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Discuss the significance of the childbirth scene and its impact on Andrew's perspective on life in Blaenelly.
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The childbirth scene becomes a pivotal moment that forces Andrew to confront the fragility of life and the challenges of his medical practice. It marks a turning point in his perspective on the community and his role within it.
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