A Mystery of Heroism

Read the following passage, then choose the correct definition of "emanating" as found in paragraph 2.

• coming from

• lightning

• falling

• going to

Read the following passage, then choose the answer that best expresses the main idea of the passage. Enigma of Elmwood Creek Detective Zara Patel reexamined the evidence spread across her desk, her brow furrowed in concentration. The case of the missing Elmwood Creek hero had baffled the town for weeks. Eyewitnesses recounted a mysterious figure who had rescued a young boy from the swollen creek during a violent storm, only to disappear without a trace. As Zara sifted through the reports, she noticed an unusual pattern emerging. Each account mentioned a faint, eerie glow emanating from the rescuer. Intrigued, she decided to revisit the creek, hoping to uncover any overlooked clues. The detective's instincts told her that the key to solving this enigma lay hidden in the murky waters. Upon reaching the creek, Zara noticed something unusual. A series of strange symbols were etched into a nearby rock, previously obscured by floodwater. As she examined them closely, the symbols began to effervesce, emitting a soft, otherworldly light. Suddenly, Zara felt an inexplicable pull towards the water. She resisted at first, but then surrendered to the force, stepping into the creek. To her astonishment, she found herself transported to an ethereal realm, where the truth behind Elmwood Creek's elusive hero awaited her. Zara realized that her courage in pursuing this mystery had led her to an extraordinary discovery, one that would redefine her understanding of heroism forever.

• The main idea is that Detective Zara is an otherworldly being.

• The main idea is that the boy had a near death experience.

• The main idea is that Elmwood Creek should be off limits for all but the strongest of swimmers.

• The main idea is that Elmwood Creek is a supernatural and mysterious place.

Which of these best describes Fred Collins’s internal conflict in the story?

• He wonders whether his superiors considered him brave or foolish.

• He wonders how he can be a hero if he has a shameful past.

• He wonders whether he should help the wounded soldier or not.

• He wonders how the words of others force him to take a risk.

Which two sentences best convey what the main character is feeling in paragraphs 52-55 of the selection?

• He is numb and in shock.

• He is conscious of the battle surrounding him.

• He is fearful of not surviving the trip to the well.

• He is concerned about what the comrades think of him.

• He is uncertain of what led him to decide to get water.

The case of the missing child was indeed ____________. Everyone in town has decided to help local police and investigators.

• mystery

• mysterial

• mysterious

• mysterical

What is the main theme of 'A Mystery of Heroism'?

• The futility of war

• The bravery of soldiers

• The unpredictability of heroism

• The importance of honor

In 'A Mystery of Heroism', what internal conflict does Fred Collins face?

• Whether to fetch water during battle

• Whether to save a fellow soldier

• Whether to follow orders or act independently

• Whether to admit his fear to others

Which literary device is predominantly used in 'A Mystery of Heroism' to highlight the chaos of war?

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Irony

• Alliteration

What does the well symbolize in 'A Mystery of Heroism'?

• Hope

• Desperation

• Courage

• Futility

How does Stephen Crane use imagery in 'A Mystery of Heroism' to depict the battlefield?

• By describing the sounds of gunfire

• By illustrating the colors of the uniforms

• By detailing the expressions of soldiers

• By painting a vivid picture of the landscape