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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 has David dropped on the rocks during the climb before he and Charles first stop to rest?

2. What does the kidnapper say he is going to do with his victim in the note he left?

3. What does Charles leave with David when he goes to catch fish?

4. What does Charles scold David for not eating?

5. What do Charles and David follow through the woods?

Short Essay Questions

1. How and why does David test Katsuk when they hear helicopters flying overhead in Section 5? What is Katsuk's response?

2. Outline Katsuk's fascination with the bee. What does he believe it is? What does he believe it can do?

3. Describe Katsuk's mood swings in Section 10. Are they different than in earlier sections? If so, how? What does this say about Katsuk and his decline into total madness?

4. What happens when Katsuk decides to leave the forest and return to the world of the white man?

5. What happens when Katsuk's relatives learn he is insane?

6. As Katsuk grows more insane with each passing day, what happens to David's spirit, attitude, and personality as a result?

7. How does Katsuk's discovery of David after such a promising escape attempt demoralize David? Do you think David has given up? Why or why not?

8. Describe the fishing incident and what it says about Katsuk and David's developing relationship. What might this mean for David's future?

9. Describe the first moments of David's kidnapping through David's eyes.

10. Describe the importance of the knife to David. Why does he get so angry about Katsuk throwing the knife in the river?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

David's character begins as an innocent, privileged boy excited about his opportunity to go to camp. By the end, he reminds one of a jaded, confused adult with too much on his shoulders. Outline David's changes step by step throughout the novel, culminating in the role reversal where David is taking care of Katsuk. Be sure to cite examples from the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Katsuk has an odd relationship with his family. It appears that, at one time, the elder members of the clan had some authority over Katsuk from the way they treat him. It is also apparent, however, that they are in awe of him and fear him. Why do you think their attitudes are so disparate? Do you think their longing to believe in the old ways has anything to do with their confusion? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The Raven, Katsuk's personal cartouche, is prevalent throughout the story. It represents Katsuk's power throughout. What do you think the appearance of the raven(s) means to David? Do you think the raven has something to do with David's reluctance to escape? Why or why not? Do you think the appearance of the ravens at the times they appear is coincidence, or do you think that Katsuk truly has power over them? Why?

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