In the Time of the Butterflies Summary and Analysis of Part I

Why is the timing of the interview in March unusual for Dede?

• It’s her birthday month

• She usually travels in March

• It’s the anniversary of Trujillo’s death

• Most interviews happen in November

What career did Dede pursue after her divorce?

• Lawyer

• Insurance salesperson

• Journalist

• Teacher

What does Maria Teresa say the Ouija board predicted for her future?

• She would be a mother

• She would be a writer

• She would be a lawyer

• She would be a teacher

What causes the family to suddenly go inside during the flashback?

• A storm begins

• They hear a gunshot

• Mama gets angry

• Papa mentions Trujillo’s name

How does Alvarez use characterization to show Papa’s drinking habits?

• She recalls the sound of the rum bottle and his slurred speech

• The narrator describes his drinking directly

• He refuses to drink in front of the children

• Dede says he was an alcoholic

What is the significance of the month of November in Dede's interviews?

• It is the anniversary of her sisters' death.

• It is the month when her sisters were born.

• It is the month when Dede got divorced.

• It is the month when Dede became an insurance salesperson.

What does Dede focus on to cope with the tragedy of her sisters' death?

• She focuses on the happy years and memories.

• She avoids talking about her sisters.

• She immerses herself in her work as an insurance salesperson.

• She spends time in her garden.

What does Papa predict about Dede's future?

• She will be the millionaire in the family.

• She will become a lawyer.

• She will make a lot of men's mouths water.

• She will have a strong faith.

Why does the mood become tense when Papa mentions Trujillo's name?

• Spies could be lurking anywhere.

• The family dislikes Trujillo.

• Trujillo is a family friend.

• Trujillo is a symbol of hope for the family.

What does Minerva want to become when she grows up?

• A lawyer.

• A teacher.

• A doctor.

• A politician.