Mr. Know-All

Give TWO reasons why the narrator dislikes Mr. Kelada even before he meets him.

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Answer explanation

The narrator dislikes Mr. Kelada before he even meets him because Kelada does not have an English name, and he thinks that Mr. Kelada is not English. He also dislikes Kelada’s luggage (too many labels), his toiletries (too expensive and French) and his brushes (monogrammed in gold and dirty).(monogrammed in gold and dirty).

What does Mr. Kelada look like? Why is the narrator surprised to find out that Mr. Kelada is English?

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Answer explanation

Mr. Kelada is short, of a sturdy build and dark-skinned with a hooked nose. He has large dark eyes and long black, sleek, curly hair. The narrator is surprised that Kelada is English because he neither looks nor behaves like an Englishman. In fact, the narrator calls him “the Levantine” and refers to him as having “an oriental smile” and being “a gentleman from Beirut or Alexandria”

'At that moment, I did not entirely dislike Mr. Kelada'. What made the narrator change his mind about Mr. Kelada?

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Answer explanation

At the end, the narrator said he didn’t entirely dislike Mr. Kelada because Mr. Kelada behaved like a gentleman. Kelada could have given away Mrs. Ramsay’s secret, which could have been disastrous. Instead he decided to say he had made a mistake, knowing that this would ruin his reputation.

What dilemma does Mr. Kelada face when he examines the pearls?

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Answer explanation

• Mr. Kelada knows the pearls are real but realizes Mrs. Ramsay wants to hide this from her husband.

• He must choose between showing his knowledge and protecting Mrs. Ramsay’s secret.
  
  Alternative phrasing:
  Mr. Kelada faces the dilemma of either revealing that the pearls are real, which would expose Mrs. Ramsay, or lying and saying they are fake, which would make him lose a bet and his reputation as an expert.

How does the narrator's opinion of Mr. Kelada change from the beginning to the end of the story?

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Answer explanation

At the beginning of the story, the narrator dislikes Mr. Kelada because his name sounds foreign, his luggage is too fancy, and he seems showy. The narrator is also annoyed by Mr. Kelada’s talkative and intrusive behavior. However, by the end of the story, the narrator’s opinion changes when Mr. Kelada lies about the pearls to protect Mrs. Ramsay. This shows he is kind and willing to help others, making the narrator realize that Mr. Kelada is a good person despite his annoying traits.

What is the significance of the pearl necklace in the story?

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Answer explanation

• The pearl necklace symbolizes trust and deception.

• It reveals the true character of both Mr. Kelada and Mrs. Ramsay.

• The necklace serves as a catalyst for the conflict in the story.

• It helps the narrator see Mr. Kelada in a different light.

Why does Mr. Kelada decide to lose the bet about the pearls?

• He realizes he is wrong.

• He doesn't want to embarrass Mrs. Ramsay

• He wants to make friends.

• He is tired of arguing.

What is the narrator's final opinion of Mr. Kelada?

• He respects him.

• He still dislikes him.
  

• He is indifferent.

• He finds him amusing.

What theme is explored through the interactions between Mr. Kelada and the other characters?

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Answer explanation

• The theme of prejudice and tolerance is explored.

• It shows how appearances can be deceiving.

• It highlights the importance of understanding and empathy.

• The story examines the complexities of human nature.

How does the narrator describe Mr. Kelada's personality?

• a) Quiet and reserved.

• b) Loud and talkative.

• c) Shy and timid.

• d) Angry and rude.