Exploring Themes in The Scarlet Ibis

What motivates Brother to teach Doodle to walk?

• Brother wants to show off Doodle's abilities to his friends.

• Brother is embarrassed by Doodle's disabilities and wants him to be normal.

• Brother wants to help Doodle become independent.

• Brother is inspired by Doodle's determination.

Answer explanation

Brother's motivation stems from his embarrassment over Doodle's disabilities. He desires for Doodle to be seen as normal, which drives him to teach him to walk, reflecting societal pressures rather than pure support.

Which of the following is a major theme in "The Scarlet Ibis"?

• The power of nature

• The importance of family

• The consequences of pride

• The inevitability of fate

Answer explanation

In "The Scarlet Ibis," pride leads to tragic consequences for the characters, particularly in the relationship between the narrator and his brother Doodle. This theme highlights how pride can drive individuals to make harmful decisions.

What does the scarlet ibis symbolize in the story?

• Freedom and independence

• Doodle's unique and fragile nature

• The family's unity

• The harshness of the environment

Answer explanation

In the story, the scarlet ibis represents Doodle's unique and fragile nature. Just like the bird, Doodle is delicate and struggles to thrive in a harsh environment, symbolizing his vulnerability and the beauty of his existence.

Summarize the key event that leads to the climax of the story.

• Doodle learns to walk and surprises the family.

• Brother pushes Doodle to row a boat in the storm.

• The family finds the scarlet ibis in their yard.

• Brother leaves Doodle behind in the storm.

Answer explanation

The climax occurs when Brother leaves Doodle behind in the storm, highlighting the tension and consequences of Brother's pride and ambition, ultimately leading to the tragic resolution of the story.

What is the significance of the storm in the story?

• It represents the internal conflict within Brother.

• It symbolizes the unpredictability of life.

• It foreshadows the tragic ending.

• It highlights the beauty of nature.

Answer explanation

The storm serves as a foreshadowing device, hinting at the tragic ending of the story. Its intensity reflects the turmoil and impending doom that the characters will face, making it a crucial element in building tension.

How does Brother's relationship with Doodle change throughout the story?

• Brother becomes more protective of Doodle.

• Brother grows increasingly resentful of Doodle.

• Brother's pride leads to a tragic outcome for Doodle.

• Brother learns to appreciate Doodle's differences.

Answer explanation

Brother's pride drives him to push Doodle beyond his limits, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome. This highlights how his desire for normalcy and success overshadows his care for Doodle's well-being.

What does the old woman swamp symbolize in the story?

• A place of danger and fear

• A refuge and place of growth

• A symbol of the past

• A representation of the unknown

Answer explanation

The old woman swamp symbolizes a refuge and place of growth, representing a nurturing environment where characters can develop and transform, contrasting with danger and fear often associated with swamps.

Analyze why Brother feels guilty at the end of the story.

• He realizes he pushed Doodle too hard.

• He regrets not spending more time with Doodle.

• He feels responsible for Doodle's death.

• He wishes he had been kinder to Doodle.

Answer explanation

Brother feels guilty because he believes he is responsible for Doodle's death. His relentless pushing and high expectations ultimately lead to Doodle's collapse, leaving him with a profound sense of guilt and regret.

Identify the figurative language used in the description of the scarlet ibis.

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Hyperbole

Answer explanation

The description of the scarlet ibis uses a metaphor, comparing the bird to something else without using 'like' or 'as'. This figurative language emphasizes its beauty and uniqueness, making it more vivid.

What is the effect of the author's use of imagery in the story?

• It creates a sense of mystery and suspense.

• It highlights the beauty and fragility of life.

• It emphasizes the harshness of the environment.

• It illustrates the complexity of human emotions.

Answer explanation

The author's use of imagery highlights the beauty and fragility of life by vividly depicting delicate scenes and emotions, allowing readers to appreciate the transient nature of existence.