Part 1) What are the legends that most influence Ayla? They can be fictional stories that are passed down through the generations, or they can be based on memories of events that happened to the clan.

Part 2) How does each legend or story directly or indirectly influence Ayla's actions and decisions?

Part 3) Do you think Ayla would have acted differently in each situation without the knowledge of the legends? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Ayla struggles with an internal conflict over using the sling.

Part 1) How does she justify using it the first time? How does she justify using it later? Identify the conflicting values behind her decision whether or not to pursue using the sling.

Part 2) Explain Ayla's realization that she cannot use the sling in a productive way. What does the porcupine symbolize? Why does she want to keep trying?

Part 3) How does the skill Ayla develops with the sling influence her relationships, especially with the men of the clan? Why does she have such a hard time feigning submission to male superiority?

Essay Topic 3

The differences between the Others and the clan are an important theme of the novel.

Part 1) How do these differences influence the story?

Part 2) How do the clan members perceive Ayla? How does being around them influence her perception of herself?

Part 3) What do the Others symbolize to the clan? Be sure to cite examples from the novel.

(see the answer keys)

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