Memoir. A memoir is a nonfiction narration that tells a story. A memoir can be autobiographical (about one’s own life) or biographical (about someone else’s life). Memoirs are based on a person’s experiences and reactions to historical events. Ji-li Jiang wrote Red Scarf Girl to relate her experiences during China’s Cultural Revolution (1966– 1976). “Destroy the Four Olds!” is a chapter from her memoir.
Motive. A motive is a reason for acting in a certain way. In this selection, many of the motives are explained by the narrator, Ji-li, or are revealed in dialogue. When motives are not revealed, try to use contextual clues to figure out the reasons people act in a particular way.
Dialogue. Dialogue is conversation involving two or more characters. Through dialogue, a reader learns a lot about the characters. As you read, closely examine the dialogue to understand more about the characters and their beliefs. Use a graphic organizer like the one to the right to arrange your ideas.
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• History Connection. In 1949 China became a communist country called the People’s Republic of China. In communism, everyone is supposed to work toward the common good, and material goods and services are supposed to be distributed fairly. Mao Ze-dong was chairman of the Chinese Communist Party until his death in 1976. (“Ze-dong” was commonly spelled “Tse-tung” in the past.)
• From 1966 to 1976, Chairman Mao led a large-scale political campaign called the Cultural Revolution. Because of political unrest within the Communist Party leadership, Mao turned to new leaders—students—in promoting the Cultural Revolution. Many older students became members of the Red Guard, which took responsibility for enforcing the rules of the Cultural Revolution.
• Younger students were also called upon to promote the ideas of the Cultural Revolution. Elementary and middle-school students like Ji-li Jiang became members of the Young Pioneers, an organization considered the first step toward membership in the Communist Party. Members wore red scarves as emblems of the Young Pioneers.
How do you respond to new rules that seem harsh or extreme?
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