Synopsis/Background Information
Who was the author of Tortilla Flat?
John Steinbeck
Who is the most developed character?
Pilon
Why do Danny’s friends gather at his house?
It’s their shared home and hangout after he inherits it.
What is the characters' nature of good and evil?
the characters are essentially good but have flaws driven by their desires
What is an activity do the friends enjoy doing?
drinking together / talking / going on adventures
What genre is Tortilla Flat?
literary fiction
Instead of paying rent, what item does Pilon spend money on?
Wine
How is Pilon both selfish and loyal?
He schemes for himself but always returns to help his friends.
What personal code of ethics do paisanos show, even after immoral acts like stealing?
their morality is based on loyalty and generosity to help each other out as friends but still have their freedom for pleasures
[True or False] Despite their questionable acts, the friends are extremely loyal
True
Where does the novel take place?
Monterey, California
[True or False] Pilon demonstrates compassion by gathering food for starving kids.
True!
[True or False] In Tortilla Flat, the friends grow closer when they act selfishly.
False
How does Steinbeck use religion to contrast inner morality and outward behavior?
Societal values deem their behavior immoral but the intentions behind the actions are for a morally good reason, often stemmed from religious reasoning
Why do the friends stay together even though they don’t have money?
They care more about each other than possessions