Literary Terms
A reference to a person, event, or thing outside of the text itself.
Allusion
Examine the intricate motivations of Montresor. What drives him to enact revenge on Fortunato, and how does he manipulate him throughout the story?
Montresor is motivated by perceived insults and grievances from Fortunato, leading him to seek a vengeful and elaborate revenge. He manipulates Fortunato's pride and love for wine to carry out his plan.
Detail Ender's unconventional strategies during the Battle Room simulations. How do these tactics set him apart and contribute to his success as a commander?
Ender employs strategies such as not using formations and "the enemy's gate is down" - exploiting gravity in the Battle Room, showcasing Ender's creativity and adaptability.
Character Motivation: Explore the complex motivations of General Zaroff. What drives him to turn hunting into a perilous game of survival?
Zaroff is motivated by the desire for a more challenging and intellectual form of hunting. He views humans as the ultimate game.
Who is the author?
John Steinbeck
The repetition of vowel sound in the middle of words within a line of text.
Assonance
Unravel the symbolic significance of the carnival setting in the story. What deeper meaning does it hold in relation to the plot?
The carnival setting symbolizes the chaos and revelry that conceal darker intentions. It adds an ironic layer to the story, as beneath the festivities lies a sinister plot of revenge.
Examine the psychological and emotional transformation of Ender throughout the novel. How does his character evolve in response to the challenges he faces in Battle School?
Ender evolves from a conflicted child to a strategic and empathetic leader. His experiences in Battle School shape him, challenging his understanding of self and morality.
Identify and discuss the use of suspense and foreshadowing in the story, pointing out specific instances that heighten tension.
Suspense is built through foreshadowing, such as the ominous comments about the island and the eerie atmosphere. These techniques keep the reader on edge.
What does Curley wear for his wife?
A glove full of Vaseline to keep his hand soft.
When the reader knows something that a character in the story does not.
Dramatic Irony
Analyze the use of unreliable narration. How does Montresor's narration affect the reader's perception of the events, and what clues exist that hint at his unreliability?
Montresor's unreliable narration is evident in his justification for revenge. The reader must piece together the narrative, considering Montresor's biased perspective and potential mental instability.
Discuss the ethical dilemmas presented in the story, particularly regarding the use of child soldiers and the moral implications of the final battle. How does the novel explore the theme of the ends justifying the means?
The novel grapples with the moral complexities of using child soldiers and the extreme measures for the greater good. Ender's final battle, believing it to be a simulation, raises profound ethical questions about the cost of victory.
Analyze the thematic exploration of morality and ethics throughout the story.
The story delves into the morality of hunting and the thin line between civilization and barbarity. Rainsford represents the struggle to maintain one's moral compass.
Character Motivation: Explain George's underlying reason for sticking with Lennie despite the challenges.
George sticks with Lennie because he feels a sense of responsibility and friendship. Lennie relies on George for guidance and protection.
Identify the literary device used in this Shakespearean example and well as explain its meaning:
"All the world is a stage,/And all the men and women merely players"
Metaphor - life is a theatrical performance where people are only playing a part
How does Poe masterfully employ situational and verbal irony to build tension and enhance plot?
Irony permeates the story, with Montresor pretending to be a friend while plotting revenge. Situational irony arises from Fortunato's ignorance of his impending doom, and verbal irony is present in Montresor's words that have double meanings (varying examples possible).
Explore the complex relationship between humans and the alien species. How does the novel depict the consequences of miscommunication and the challenges of understanding an alien culture?
Miscommunication with the Buggers results in initial conflict. The novel highlights the consequences of assuming hostility without understanding, emphasizing communication and empathy in interspecies relations, as seen through Ender.
Analyze the shifting power dynamics between Rainsford and Whitney at the beginning of the story. How does this initial interaction foreshadow Rainsford's later encounter with General Zaroff?
The conversation foreshadows Rainsford's later predicament. Rainsford's casual dismissal of the feelings for the hunted animals sets the stage for Rainsford's own experience as the hunted.
Justice is left in question at the novel's end. Whose actions could be challenged as fair/just and why?
George because he murdered Lennie.
What is an archetype?
An image, pattern, or character that reoccurs throughout literature and considered a universal concept
Examine the theme of pride and arrogance in the story. How does Fortunato's pride become a key factor in his downfall, and what does Poe suggest about the dangers of unchecked arrogance through the character of Fortunato?
Fortunato's pride and arrogance lead him to underestimate the danger he faces, ultimately contributing to his tragic demise. Poe suggests that unchecked pride can blind individuals to impending threats and result in their downfall.
What can real-world leaders learn from Ender's leadership? You must include three examples.
Real-world leaders can learn from Ender's ability to inspire loyalty, innovate under pressure, and make touch decisions for the greater good. (Also, other possible answers.)
What part of the world is the story set? (Approximately)
Caribbean or Amazon area
Analyze the complex relationship between Curley’s wife and the ranchers, focusing on the impact on the story.
Loneliness and limited options for women during the time period. Answers may vary.