Characters
Who is the protagonist of "The Pearl"?
Kino
What is the setting of "The Pearl"?
- A small Mexican village
Name one of the prominent themes in "The Pearl." -
Greed, wealth, and poverty
What does the pearl symbolize in the story?
Wealth, power, and the corrupting influence of greed
"This pearl has become my soul." - Who said this quote and what does it represent?
Kino; demonstrates his obsession and corruption by the pearl
Name the character who is Kino's wife.
Juana
What is the major event that sets the plot in motion? -
The discovery of the pearl
Discuss the theme of greed and its impact in the story.
How the desire for wealth can corrupt and destroy
Explain the significance of Kino's canoe in the narrative.
Freedom, tradition, and the means of livelihood
"It is not good to want a thing too much." - Interpret the meaning of this quote in the novella.
Warns about the dangers of excessive desire and greed
What is the name of Kino's son in the story?
Coyotito
Describe Kino's character journey throughout the story.
From hope and happiness to tragedy and loss
How does the theme of family play out in the novella?
- The importance of family unity and protection
How is the scorpion symbolic in the novella?
Represents danger, evil, and the unpredictability of life
"Who do you fear?" Kino searched for a true answer, and at last he said, "everyone." And he could feel a shell of hardness drawing over him. Explain this quote.
Kino is aware that he is now a target for those who are jealous of his wealth.
Who is the antagonist in "The Pearl"?
- The doctor
How does the town react to Kino's finding the pearl?
They were pulsing and vibrating with the news.
What message about human nature is conveyed through the themes in the book?
The destructive nature of greed and the goodness of family
Discuss the symbolism of the doctor in "The Pearl."
Represents greed, and how the wealthy did not care about anyone else.
"I am a man." - What is the context of this quote in the story? Who is Kino speaking to?
Kino asserting his masculinity and power to protect his family
Which character symbolizes greed in the novella?
- The doctor
What reactions shows that the pearl buyer is astounded by the beauty and size of the pearl?
The pearl buyer can't take his eyes off the pearl which shows that he is trying to cheat Kino.
Analyze the theme of social class in "The Pearl"
The divide between the rich and the poor, and the struggle for upward mobility
What is the meaning of "songs" the come to Kino in his head? What do they represent or symbolize in relation to Kino?
they represent how he feels about certain things. When he feels is something good or evil
“These things will make us free because he will know … and through him we will know.” Who says this quote and interpret the meaning.
Kino will use the pearl to pay for Coyotito’s education. Coyotito’s education will then enable Kino’s people to access more themselves, and they will no longer be taken advantage of.