Chapter 1: The Pearl by John Steinbeck: Unit Overview

Chapter 1 (pg. 3-13) 1. What is a parable and why do you suppose Steinbeck calls our attention to this in his preface? A parable is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. Steinbeck calls attention to this in his preface to highlight the allegorical nature of the story and to suggest that it carries deeper symbolic meanings beyond the surface narrative. 2. What do the names of the characters suggest about the setting for this story? The names of the characters suggest a setting that is influenced by Mexican or indigenous culture. Names like Kino and Juana evoke a sense of ethnicity and hint at the cultural background of the characters. 3. Who appears to be the protagonist in this story? Kino appears to be the protagonist in this story, as the narrative primarily focuses on his experiences, desires, and struggles. 4. Who would you guess the antagonists will be? The antagonists in the story are likely to be those who oppose or threaten Kino and his family's well-being. This could include individuals like the doctor or others who seek to exploit or harm them. 5. On pages 3-4 Kino has arisen and the day has begun. What is this song he hears and what does it suggest about how he is feeling this morning? The song Kino hears in the morning is the Song of the Family. It suggests that he is feeling content, at peace, and connected to his family and heritage. 6. On page 5 (1st full paragraph) the song Juana sings is part of the family song and all of it, Kino perceives, is part of the Whole. What Whole? The "Whole" refers to the interconnectedness of all aspects of life and nature. Kino perceives the family song as part of this Whole, indicating his belief in the harmony and unity of existence. 7. While Kino’s environment is safe and pleasant, how does the picture of the ants and the roosters underscore the struggle for the survival in nature? The picture of the ants and roosters underscores the struggle for survival in nature by highlighting the competition and aggression inherent in the animal kingdom. It suggests that even in a seemingly safe and pleasant environment, there is a constant battle for resources and dominance. 8. On page 6, what new song comes to Kino? Why? The new song that comes to Kino is the Song of Evil. It comes to him because of the threat posed by the scorpion sting to his family's well-being. 9. How does Juana’s reaction to the scorpion show two sides of the Indian culture? Juana's reaction to the scorpion shows two sides of the Indian culture: the traditional belief in superstition and the instinct to protect and care for her family. 10. When the narrator says, “Kino had wondered often at the iron in his patient, fragile wife” (8) what does he mean? When the narrator says, "Kino had wondered often at the iron in his patient, fragile wife," he means that Juana possesses a strength and resilience that belies her outward appearance of fragility. She is able to endure and withstand hardships with fortitude and determination. 11. How are the homes of the poor distinguished from the homes of the rich? The homes of the poor are distinguished from the homes of the rich by their simplicity, modesty, and lack of material wealth or luxury. They are often small, cramped, and built from humble materials, in contrast to the grandeur and opulence of the homes of the rich. 12. How is the doctor described? The doctor is described as being arrogant, greedy, and indifferent to the suffering of others. He is portrayed as a symbol of the corrupting influence of power and wealth. 13. What race do you suppose the doctor is of? The doctor's race is not explicitly stated in the text, but given the setting of the story and the context of colonialism and imperialism, it is likely that he is of European descent. 14. What does the doctor’s comment on page 13 reveal about his attitude toward Indians? The doctor's comment on page 13 reveals his attitude toward Indians as being dismissive, patronizing, and racist. He views them as inferior and unworthy of his time or attention, showing a complete lack of empathy or compassion. 15. Contrast Kino’s life, which is a life close to nature, to the doctor’s life, which is a life amidst civilization. Kino's life is depicted as being close to nature, characterized by simplicity, harmony, and a deep connection to the land and its rhythms. In contrast, the doctor's life is portrayed as being amidst civilization, marked by materialism, greed, and the pursuit of power and status.