Plot & Events
What happens to Coyotito at the beginning of the story?
He is stung by a scorpion.
Who are the main family members in the story?
Kino, Juana, and Coyotito.
What does the pearl originally symbolize for Kino?
Hope and a better future.
What is one main theme of The Pearl?
Greed and its corrupting power.
tired; weak
lethargic
Where do Kino and Juana go first to seek help for Coyotito?
The doctor’s house.
How does Kino show his love for Juana early in the story?
He looks at her lovingly and listens to her prayers for their son.
What does the scorpion symbolize?
Evil or danger that invades innocence.
How does Steinbeck show the theme of family?
Through Kino and Juana’s devotion to each other and Coyotito.
glad; joyful
exhilaration
What amazing discovery does Kino make while diving?
He finds the great pearl.
What does Juana think the pearl will bring to their family?
Evil and destruction.
What does Kino’s canoe symbolize?
Family heritage, tradition, and survival.
What message does Juana’s attempt to throw away the pearl show?
Sometimes letting go of wealth brings peace and safety.
building or structure
edifice
What happens to Kino’s canoe in Chapter 5?
It is smashed and ruined.
How does Kino change from the start of the novel to Chapter 5?
He becomes violent, paranoid, and obsessed with the pearl.
How does the pearl’s meaning change by Chapter 5?
It becomes a symbol of greed, destruction, and loss.
How does society’s reaction to Kino finding the pearl show inequality?
The rich and powerful try to take advantage of him.
smothering; suffocating; to take away breath or restrict
stifling
Why do Kino and Juana flee their village at the end of Chapter 5?
Their home is burned and they are being hunted for the pearl.
What does Juana do after Kino attacks her?
She helps him after he’s attacked and stays loyal.
What might the “songs” Kino hears represent?
His instincts, emotions, and connection to good and evil.
What lesson might Steinbeck be teaching about human nature?
Desire for wealth can destroy happiness and morality.
one who estimates worth or value
appraiser