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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who decides to dress lightly, thinking the sun will warm him up, but instead finds out the wind makes him very cold?

2. After whom is Mount Everest named?

3. Which of the guides have already become ill as a result of the conditions at Lobuje?

4. What does Krakauer notice about the Sherpas' culture when they arrive in Namche?

5. What does Krakauer help the Sherpas chop ice for when they get back to camp?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do the Sherpas do in preparation for the climbers to begin the eventual ascent to the summit?

2. What is HACE?

3. Why are the climbers eager to leave Lobuje?

4. Who were the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest?

5. Describe Krakauer's feelings when he reaches the summit in his description at the beginning of this book.

6. Why does Doug Hansen stay behind while the rest of the climbers head up to Camp Three?

7. How is the influence of Western culture seen in the village of Namche?

8. What does Krakauer notice in the snow as they are climbing up to Camp Two?

9. What is Krakauer alarmed to see other climbers doing as they prepare their equipment for their first acclimatization climb?

10. Why do Krakauer and Hansen have troubles getting out of their sleeping bags in the morning?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Deciding what is real and what is not becomes difficult as the altitude changes and the oxygen tanks run low. But there are other ways the hikers' perception of the mountain can shift.

Part 1: Which characters have troubles distinguishing between reality and delusions? Why?

Part 2: In what other ways are hikers cut off from reality?

Part 3: Is there any way to make sure the hikers can remain aware of their surroundings at all times? Are any of the hikers able to keep their heads calm and collected?

Essay Topic 2

There are a number of possible heroes in this story as the events unfold. Some people go above and beyond their duties and responsibilities to help others, while others simply fend for themselves.

Part 1: What is the definition of a hero?

Part 2: Who might be considered heroes in this story? Why?

Part 3: Which characters seem to have been unwilling to help others? Perhaps even selfish? Why do they seem this way?

Essay Topic 3

Krakauer offered to write an article about the commercialization of Mount Everest and how it's affecting the beauty of the area as well as its power.

Part 1: What are some examples of the way Mount Everest has been commercialized in this story?

Part 2: How might this commercialization affect the respect Mount Everest should have from those who climb it?

Part 3: Is there any way to stop the commercialization of this area? Isn't this book furthering its commercialization? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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