The Island
Why is the word “island” in quotation marks?
It’s in quotation marks because it’s not a real island; the town is part of a prank.
Why is Sancho given the keys to the city?
Given keys as symbolic authority; he must resolve disputes.
Why do Sancho’s rulings shock the townspeople?
Sancho’s rulings are clever for his background; physician tests him.
How does Sancho feel about taking up arms against the enemy?
Reluctant, nervous, unsure if attackers are real.
Why does the physician not let Sancho eat anything?
Physician refuses food as part of the Duke’s plan.
Do you think Sancho is really on an island? Where has he arrived?
He is not really on an island; he’s in a town arranged by the Duke/Duchess.
How does Sancho resolve the dispute between the tailor and the man who ordered capes?
Orders the capes to be split fairly between the tailor and customer.
Why does Sancho think the physician is part of a plot against him?
He suspects physician because of strange treatment; seventh night brings more pranks/tests.
What evidence shows Sancho is unhappy to fight?
Hesitant, complains, doubts reality; shows discomfort.
What evidence shows the townspeople are in on the Duke’s joke?
Townspeople exaggerate events and act theatrically.
What would Sancho see if he were on a real island?
He would see water surrounding him; separation from mainland.
What do the townspeople think about Sancho’s dispute ruling?
Townspeople are surprised/shocked but impressed by his fairness.
Describe what the townspeople do to Sancho.
Townspeople trick him into thinking he can’t move; pretend supernatural causes.
Why does Sancho hesitate before taking action against the attackers?
Townspeople exaggerate threats; trick him into inaction.
How do the townspeople react to Sancho’s decisions?
Surprised, impressed, sometimes confused.
Challenge: Evidence that the “island” is not under attack?
The “attackers” are fake; townspeople play along with the joke
Why does the butler ask Sancho to account for his administration?
Butler wants an account of Sancho’s judgments; part of Duke’s test.
What happens on Sancho’s seventh night as governor?
Seventh night shows Sancho facing more tests.
How does Sancho’s approach to the “enemy” reveal his character?
Shows Sancho is cautious, loyal, practical.
What examples from the text show irony or humor in Sancho’s governance?
Irony/humor: simple Sancho gives wise rulings while being tricked.
Challenge: Why is the chapter title ironic?
Chapter title is ironic because Sancho thinks he’s ruling a real island.
How do the townspeople feel about Sancho when he leaves the “island”?
Townspeople admire him for cleverness and fairness.
Why does the physician refuse to let Sancho eat?
Physician refuses food to test patience and judgment.
What might happen if Sancho actually fought an enemy?
Could be harmed or humiliated; lacks real military skill.
How does the text show Sancho learning from his experience as governor?
Shows Sancho growing in confidence, judgment, and understanding of human nature.