Why does Mrs. Whatsit’s gift of Meg’s “faults” become so important at the end of the story?
Because her stubbornness and love help her resist IT and save Charles Wallace.
It was an inexorable rhythm, pulsing through the streets of Camazotz.
What does the word inexorable most nearly mean?
Impossible to stop or resist
“I am the mouthpiece through which IT speaks.”
The Man with Red Eyes.
Who are the three Mrs. Ws, and what is their purpose in the story?
Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which
What does the perfect rhythm and sameness of life on Camazotz symbolize?
A society that has lost freedom and individuality under total control — like communism.
What does IT promise people on Camazotz in exchange for obedience?
Safety, order, and peace — at the cost of freedom.
Why was Meg chosen to go back for Charles Wallace instead of her father or Calvin?
Because only Meg’s love could reach him.
The air around Aunt Beast seemed to hum with a quiet benediction, as though every movement was a kind of blessing.
A blessing or expression of good wishes.
“Love. That’s what I have that IT doesn’t have!”
Meg
How do the beasts communicate with Meg, Calvin, and Mr. Murry?
Through telepathic thoughts and feelings, not spoken words.
Romans 12:21
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
What emotion does IT use to enslave others?
Fear.
What does Meg use to pass through the transparent column to reach her father?
Mrs. Who’s spectacles.
The memory of Camazotz still filled Meg with revulsion, a feeling so strong she almost shuddered.
A strong feeling of disgust
“We do not know what things look like. We know what things are like.”
Aunt Beast
Who helps Meg recover and care for her while she’s weak?
Aunt Beast.
Psalm 139:13–14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Why is Charles Wallace more vulnerable to IT than Meg or Calvin?
Because of his pride in his own intelligence and belief he can handle IT’s power.
Why is Meg angry with her father after they escape Camazotz?
Because he didn’t rescue Charles Wallace.
Meg felt resolute as she prepared to face IT again.
Determined and unwavering.
“The Black Thing is everywhere, covering more and more planets.”
Mrs. Which
Why does Mrs. Whatsit refuse to tell Meg exactly what to do when she returns to Camazotz?
Because Meg must act out of love, not instruction — her choice must come from her own heart.
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
What physical form does IT take when Meg finally sees it?
A large, pulsing brain on a platform.
What lesson does Meg learn about what true strength really is?
True strength comes from love, humility, and faith — not power or intelligence.
Meg’s return to Charles Wallace was an act of redemption.
Deliverance or rescue from evil through love
It is the shadow of hate and of pride and of cold intellect.
Mrs. Which
What does Aunt Beast teach Meg on Ixchel?
To see with her heart, not her eyes — and to trust love over appearances.
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
What does the ending teach about what it means to be human?
To love freely, think independently, and reflect God’s image rather than surrendering to control.