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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. Why does Juan believe the bad wind to be good for Kino?

2. What makes Kino very afraid in Chapter 5?

3. What is the last thing Juan and Kino say before parting in Chapter 4?

4. To what does Kino compare himself in Chapter 5, after losing his house?

5. Why does Kino take off his white clothes in Chapter 6?

Short Essay Questions

1. Name some of the things the other villagers say they would do if they had the great pearl.

2. Where does Kino hope to lose the trackers? Why?

3. After the attack in the dark in Chapter 5, Kino believes the pearl is gone, but who finds it?

4. What happened before when the pearl buyers got together and tried to have a pearl representative take their goods to the capital?

5. Name some of the theories Juan Tomas gives the neighbors to divert suspicion as to what happened to Kino and his family in Chapter 5.

6. Why does Juana try to destroy the pearl after their failed attempt at selling it?

7. Why do Juana and Kino run in the wagon tracks?

8. When Kino says, "I am a man" to Juana, what does that mean to her?

9. Describe the water Kino's family finds while on the run in Chapter 6. What does the water symbolize?

10. What happens to Kino's home while he is being attacked by the dark figure in Chapter 5?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The theme of powerful forces manipulating the environment is prevalent throughout the novel.

1) What are some examples of ways the author uses symbolism to develop this theme?

2) How is the theme developed through character actions?

3) How does setting relate to the theme of powerful forces manipulating the environment?

Essay Topic 2

The name of the town is "La Paz" which means The Peace in Spanish. Explain the significance of the town's name. Is this an appropriate or ironic name for Kino's town? Explain why you feel the way you do.

Essay Topic 3

Initially in the novel, Kino finds his sense of security and hope in his family, his hut, and his canoe. How is his sense of security and comfort redefined after he finds the pearl?

1.) How does the pearl change Kino's dreams for his family?

2.) How does the pearl change his relationship with his family, especially with Juana who was previously a huge source of comfort to him?

(see the answer keys)

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