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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. What do some of the climbers unpack when they are getting ready for their first acclimatization climb, much to Krakauer's alarm?

2. How many times has Fischer climbed Mount Everest?

3. What quality is Krakauer impressed with as the answer to #110 comes down the mountain?

4. Which team on the mountain is sponsored by a newspaper?

5. What is affecting Krukauer's ability to think clearly while at the summit of Mount Everest?

Short Essay Questions

1. What has Goran Kropp been doing on Mount Everest?

2. What are some examples of Krakauer's potential feelings of snobbery towards Mount Everest?

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

4. What is HACE?

5. How is Krakauer feeling when he arrives at Camp Two?

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

7. What does Krakauer help Ang Dorje with when they are back at Camp One?

8. Why do the climbers have to return to Camp Two as they are making their way up to Camp Three?

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

10. Who does Krakauer idolize from his own town, as related to his own hiking love?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

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