Characters & Tribes
Who is the protagonist and narrator of the story who goes on a quest for knowledge of the forbidden east?
John
What is the common belief among John's tribe about the east?
The East is cursed and the land belongs to the gods.
What's a "dead place"?
They are the ruins of the past civilization.
What does the "fire" mean literally and symbolically?
It references nuclear war, and the misuse of advanced knowledge and technology.
What role does John's father have in their tribe?
John's father is a priest.
Being considered an outcast and having their tongue cut out.
Why are the artifacts regarded as sacred and dangerous?
They feared the spirits of the God resided in those artifacts.
What could be a central theme for this story?
Knowledge, curiousity, transformation, understanding, ignorance, or confidence.
Names of the two tribes mentioned in the story, and how they both view the eastern lands?
"People of the Hills" and "Forest People". They thought the east was cursed and saw it as god's territory.
Why does John decide to explore the forbidden east anyways?
To seek knowledge and challenge the tribe's beliefs.
Where is the main significant location of the artifacts?
"Place of the Gods". This is a large ruined city in the eastern lands.
How does John's exploration of the east challenge the delusions and ignorance of the tribes?
Revealing that the eastern lands are not actually cursed, but just lived on by humans with great knowledge and technology.
Name of John's mentor and his role in the tribe?
"Medicine Lodge". He is also a priest and guides John on his quest.
What does John's tribe fear the most about the east?
The fear of "fire" and the evil spirits of the east.
What were some named artifacts?
Books, statues, and metal objects.
How do you think the past civilization destroyed itself?
People of the past were overconfident and misused their advanced technology to destroy themselves.
What is "The Place of the Gods"?
A ruined city of the past civilization.
What news does John bring to the tribe about the east and the truth behind their prohibition?
The east wasn't really cursed, but rather occupied by advanced human beings instead of gods.
How do the artifacts help play a role in John's quest?
They serve as clues that lead to his understanding of the true past civilization and the gods.
What kind of atmosphere is created and sensed throughout the post-apocalyptic world?
The story has a cautionary and challenging atmosphere from the sense of abandonment of the ruins.