English Midterm Study Guide

What happens to Ajax as a result of his hubris and cursing the gods?

Ajax is struck and killed by Poseidon.

How do Odysseus and his men escape from Polyphemus’s cave?

They get Polyphemus drunk, stab him in the eye, and escape attached to the rams.

What are two ways Athena helps Odysseus?

She gives him multiple chances at life and transforms him into an elderly man to sneak back home.

Who is Tiresias, and what role does he play in the story?

Tiresias is the great seer of the Land of the Dead.

How does Eurycleia demonstrate her loyalty to Odysseus?

By telling him which of the housemaids are disloyal.

Why is Antinoos the first suitor to be killed?

Because he is the most greedy and ungrateful, emphasizing the importance of respect.

How does Calypso feel about Odysseus?

Calypso is in love with Odysseus and does not want him to leave.

What is Poseidon’s role in Odysseus’s journey?

Poseidon is the God of the sea, and he makes Odysseus’s journey difficult by deflecting his raft.

What does King Menelaus represent in the context of hospitality?

He represents hospitality by offering Odysseus a feast once he arrives.

How is Telemachus described in the story?

Telemachus is Odysseus’s son, who is determined to find his father.

What does Penelope do to show her unwavering love for Odysseus?

She refuses to remarry and waits for him to return.

Name two obstacles Odysseus faces on his journey back to Ithaca.

Polyphemus’s cave and his boat derailing after his men open the bag of wind.

What was Zayde’s life like in Auschwitz?

It was traumatic and grueling, but his friendship with Josef made it slightly bearable.

Who is Josef and what happens to him?

Josef is a clarinet player Zayde met in Auschwitz; he marched to his death with his family.

Why does Zayde show Ben Morgan his number tattoo?

To demonstrate the reality of his past experiences.

Why is Zayde reluctant to share details of his past?

He does not want to relive the traumatic moments.

Why does Ms. Ramsey yell at the theater crew?

Because they aren’t following stage directions.

Describe Zayde and Amir's friendship

Amir helped Zayde when he fell and Zayde helps him organize books in his shop.

What is the Auschwitz Orchestra and how does it impact Zayde’s life?

It played the death marching anthem; Zayde took part in the orchestra.

Describe the rivalry between Shirli and Mindi.

Mindi got the role that Shirli wanted and she liked Ben.

Why does Shirli mention 9/11?

Because it was a traumatic and recent event.

Why does Liesel’s mother give her up for adoption?

Because the war caused her to be in poverty.

Who teaches Liesel to read and what effect does this have on their relationship?

Hans teaches Liesel to read, which strengthens their bond.

How does Liesel initially react to living in the Hubermann household?

She dislikes her mother but likes her father and is reluctant to enter.

Discuss the friendship between Liesel and Max.

They share a bond through reading and companionship.

What happens to Max’s family during the war?

Max's father dies in the war, and he gets separated from his mother.

Why does Mr. Hermann forbid Mrs. Hermann from discussing books with Liesel?

Because the discussion of books is banned.

What is the ending of The Book Thief?

The street gets bombed, everyone but Liesel dies, and she reunites with Max.

What is the significance of having Death as the narrator in The Book Thief?

It provides a perspective on every life.

Describe Liesel and Rudy’s friendship.

Rudy and Liesel look out for each other.