Phantom Tollbooth Ch. 8 Humbug Volunteers

Summarize the main idea of Chapter 8, "The Humbug Volunteers," from "The Phantom Tollbooth."

• The chapter focuses on Milo's journey through the Doldrums.

• The chapter highlights the Humbug's decision to join Milo on his quest.

• The chapter describes the history of the Kingdom of Wisdom.

• The chapter is about Milo's encounter with the Spelling Bee.

What motivates the Humbug to volunteer to accompany Milo on his journey?

• He wants to prove his bravery.

• He is seeking adventure and excitement.

• He is trying to impress King Azaz.

• He is forced to go by the Mathemagician.

Analyze the theme of companionship in Chapter 8. How is it portrayed?

• Companionship is shown as a burden to Milo.

• Companionship is depicted as unnecessary for Milo's journey.

• Companionship is portrayed as a source of strength and support.

• Companionship is shown as a distraction from the quest.

Describe a significant plot development in Chapter 8.

• Milo decides to return home.

• The Humbug volunteers to join Milo on his quest.

• Milo meets the Mathemagician for the first time.

• The Spelling Bee challenges Milo to a duel.

Interpret the figurative language used when describing the Humbug's character in Chapter 8.

• The Humbug is described as a "towering giant."

• The Humbug is likened to a "bumbling fool."

• The Humbug is compared to a "wise sage."

• The Humbug is depicted as a "shining knight."

Make an inference about Milo's feelings towards the Humbug's decision to join him.

• Milo is excited and relieved.

• Milo is indifferent and uninterested.

• Milo is skeptical but hopeful.

• Milo is angry and frustrated.

Summarize how the theme of courage is explored in Chapter 8.

• Courage is shown through Milo's decision to face the demons alone.

• Courage is depicted through the Humbug's willingness to join the quest despite his fears.

• Courage is illustrated by King Azaz's refusal to help Milo.

• Courage is demonstrated by the Spelling Bee's challenge to the Humbug.

Identify the character motivation behind King Azaz's encouragement for the Humbug to join Milo.

• King Azaz wants to get rid of the Humbug.

• King Azaz believes the Humbug will be a valuable ally.

• King Azaz wants to test the Humbug's loyalty.

• King Azaz is trying to teach the Humbug a lesson.

Analyze how the author uses humor to develop the Humbug's character in Chapter 8.

• The author uses slapstick comedy to make the Humbug seem clumsy.

• The author uses witty dialogue to highlight the Humbug's arrogance.

• The author uses dark humor to portray the Humbug as sinister.

• The author uses sarcasm to depict the Humbug as wise.

Describe how the plot development in Chapter 8 sets the stage for future events in the story.

• It introduces a new antagonist for Milo to face.

• It establishes a new setting for the next chapter.

• It foreshadows the challenges Milo will face with the Humbug.

• It concludes Milo's journey and resolves the main conflict.