Compare and Contrast

Why does the main character in both stories leave home?

• Thorvald’s wife suggests he ask the country people for help; Tomiko leaves because her parents can no longer care for her.

• Thorvald decides he must seek his fortune; Tomiko goes to find out what she wants to do in life.

• Thorvald leaves because he is angry with Helga; Tomiko leaves as she wants to see more of the world.

• Thorvald sets out on a walk in order to get to know the country people; Tomiko leaves home in order to look for a husband.

Which of these is a theme these passages have in common?

• One must help a friend in need.

• One can learn in a long journey.

• People in their old age know best.

• Nature is more powerful than people.

The topic of ________ is in the second passage but not the first.

• earthquakes

• giants who snore

• asking for help

• building things

How is the myth in Passage 1 different from the folk tale in Passage 2?

• Passage 1 explains a natural event; Passage 2 does not explain such an event.

• Passage 1 shows real people who use magic; Passage 2 shows magical creatures.

• Passage 1 shows a trick played on a character; Passage 2 does not show a trick.

• Passage 1 has local farmers who agree to help; Passage 2 has family members who help.

Which two statements below best describe story details that are true of both passages?

• A character runs away from home because her parents made her angry.

• A character travels across the world to find a sleeping cure.

• A character follows her dreams and learn how to build things.

• A character begins a journey to seek help for an illness in his body.