The Echoes of the Labyrinth - Dramatic Irony (Grade 7)

What does the reader know about Sage that Alden does not?

• Sage is bound to mislead anyone who enters the labyrinth.

• Sage is Alden's long-lost relative.

• Sage was the one who built the labyrinth.

• Sage is also trapped and trying to escape.

Answer explanation

The passage explicitly states for the reader: 'The reader, aware of the labyrinth's ancient curse, knows that Sage is bound to mislead any who enter.' Alden is unaware of this and believes Sage is a 'wise guide.'

Why does Alden decide to follow Sage's advice to take the 'path of shadows'?

• He is no longer afraid of danger.

• He is frustrated with his past failures and wants to try a new approach.

• Sage threatens him if he doesn't take the path.

• He sees a light at the end of the dark corridor.

Answer explanation

Alden says, 'You're right. I've been doing the same thing over and over. I have to try something new.' This shows his decision is based on his perseverance and desire to change his failing strategy.

What is Alden's main goal in the labyrinth?

• To defeat Sage in a battle.

• To find a hidden treasure.

• To find and light the Eternal Flame.

• To map out all the paths of the labyrinth.

Answer explanation

In paragraph 3, Alden explicitly states his goal: 'I can't find the chamber with the Eternal Flame.'

When Sage says Alden will 'finally find your rest there,' what is the hidden meaning that the reader understands?

• Alden will find a comfortable place to sleep.

• Alden will successfully complete his quest.

• Alden will find a magical sword.

• Alden will be trapped in the dead end forever.

Answer explanation

The reader knows Sage's goal is to make Alden fail. Therefore, 'rest' is a deceptive word for being permanently trapped, which would be Alden's final 'rest' in the labyrinth.

How does Alden perceive Sage?

• As a wise guide.

• As a dangerous enemy.

• As another challenger.

• As a ghost to be avoided.

Answer explanation

The passage states, 'Believing Sage was a wise guide, Alden nodded.' This shows Alden's incorrect perception of Sage's character.

Categorize the following events and phrases from the story based on what they reveal.

Groups:

(a) Reveals Sage's True, Deceptive Intentions

,

(b) Shows Alden's Hopeful Misunderstanding

• Sage's advice to take the 'path of shadows'.

• Alden's decision to 'try something new'.

• Alden thinking Sage is a 'wise guide'.

• Sage's 'true, triumphant smile'.

• Alden feeling 'his hope renewed'.

• Sage's line: 'you will finally find your rest there.'

Answer explanation

The first category includes actions and words that show Sage's true goal of tricking Alden, which the reader is aware of. The second category includes Alden's thoughts and actions that show he does not understand Sage's deception and is hopeful for success.

Match Sage's dialogue to its hidden meaning, which is understood by the reader but not by Alden.

• You will be trapped and give up forever.

• "This is the only way you will succeed."

• Your continued effort makes you easy to fool.

• "Perseverance is a noble quality."

• The secret is that this path is a trap.

• "...you will finally find your rest there."

• This is the only way you will succeed in failing.

• "The path of shadows holds secrets."

Answer explanation

Each of Sage's statements has a double meaning. To Alden, they sound encouraging. To the reader, who knows Sage's curse, the statements reveal his deceptive plan to make Alden fail.

The passage shows how Alden's perseverance leads him to trust Sage's bad advice. Think about a real-life situation, like working on a difficult school project or learning a new sport. How could someone's strong desire to succeed (perseverance) make them listen to bad advice, just like Alden did? Explain your answer using details about Alden's and Sage's conversation from the passage.

Answer explanation