The Chaser- Checking for understanding

Which statement best describes how Alan’s characterization develops the theme of naïveté in the story?

• He carefully considers the potential consequences of using the potion before purchasing it.

• He is hesitant to trust the old man but decides to buy the potion after further questioning.

• He fails to recognize the dangers of the love potion and believes it will bring him happiness.

• He understands the old man’s warning but chooses to ignore it.

How does the old man's dialogue contribute to the theme of deception in the story?

• He openly warns Alan about the dangers of the potion.

• He indirectly implies that Alan will likely return for the poison later.

• He tries to discourage Alan from buying the potion by making it expensive.

• He tells Alan that the love potion has only temporary effects.

What inference can be made about the old man's intentions based on the following statement: “Then customers come back, later in life, when they are better off, and want more expensive things” (Collier)?

• He is genuinely trying to help Alan find love.

• He anticipates that Alan will regret his decision and later purchase the poison.

• He enjoys providing magical solutions to young lovers.

• He believes Alan will recommend the shop to others.

How does Alan’s reaction to the love potion’s effects reveal his misunderstanding of love?

• He is thrilled that Diana will be obsessed with him, unaware that love should involve mutual respect.

• He is hesitant to buy the potion, showing that he values free will in relationships.

• He immediately realizes the potential dangers of the potion but buys it anyway.

• He questions the old man about the potion’s effectiveness before making his decision.

How does dramatic irony shape the reader’s understanding of Alan’s fate?

• The reader knows that Alan will be happy with Diana, while he remains unsure.

• The reader understands that the love potion will make Diana happy, but Alan does not.

• The reader realizes that Alan will likely regret his decision, but he believes he has found a perfect solution.

• The reader sees that the old man is selling fake potions, but Alan believes in them.

What is the central theme of The Chaser?

• Love is something that can be controlled.

• People often fail to anticipate the consequences of their desires.

• True love is achieved through patience and kindness.

• Magic always comes with a price.

What evidence from the text best supports the idea that Alan is blind to the potion’s potential consequences?

• “She will want nothing but solitude and you.”

• “That is love!” cried Alan.

• “She will never allow you to be tired, to sit in a draught, to neglect your food.”

• “And how much,” said Alan, “is this wonderful mixture?”

What effect does the old man’s casual tone have on the mood of the story?

• It creates a humorous and lighthearted atmosphere.

• It emphasizes the danger of the love potion through subtle warnings.

• It reassures Alan that he is making the right decision.

• It builds suspense by making the potion seem mysterious and unpredictable.

How does the phrase “Au revoir” at the end of the story contribute to its meaning?

• It suggests that Alan will return, foreshadowing the darker consequences of his choice.

• It implies that the old man does not take Alan seriously.

• It shows that Alan and the old man have formed a strong friendship.

• It is a polite way for the old man to say goodbye.

What conclusion can be drawn about the love potion and its connection to the old man’s business strategy?

• The potion ensures lifelong happiness, encouraging repeat customers.

• The potion is inexpensive because the old man knows it will lead to future, costlier purchases.

• The potion is a scam, tricking desperate people into believing in love.

• The potion only works temporarily, forcing buyers to return for more.