The Landlady

Which of the following examples of the landlady’s behavior is the best example of foreshadowing from the story?

• But this dame was like a jack-in-the-box. He pressed the bell—and out she popped!

• “If that is too much,” she added, “then perhaps I can reduce it just a tiny bit.”

• “And it is such a pleasure, my dear, such a very great pleasure when now and again I open the door and I see someone standing there who is just exactly right.”

Why does Billy decide to stay at the inn even though the landlady behaves so oddly? 

• Billy thinks she is harmless.

• Billy does not have much money for a place to stay. 

• Billy knows there are no other options.

Reread lines 89-106. What about Billy’s initial interaction with the landlady should make him wary of her? 

• She is friendly.

• She appears to be waiting for him.

• She uses a somewhat threatening tone.

What about Billy most attracts the landlady? 

• His kind personality.

• His youthful good looks.

• He is the only potential customer.

When does Billy start to notice something is terribly wrong?

• When the landlady offers him tea.

• When the landlady compliments his appearance.

• When the landlady says that the two previous guests were still staying at the inn. 

The reader can most safely assume that…

• The landlady has poisoned Billy.

• The landlady will be caught.

• Billy will escape. 

How does the character of the landlady initially appear to Billy?

• Aggressive and hostile

• Kind and welcoming

• Indifferent and detached

• Sad and lonely

What literary device is used when the landlady says, 'I see someone standing there who is just exactly right'?

• Foreshadowing

• Metaphor

• Simile

• Irony

Why does Billy feel compelled to sign the guest book?

• He is curious about the other guests.

• The landlady insists on it.

• He wants to leave a good impression.

• He is required by law.

What is the significance of the landlady's stuffed pets in the story?

• They symbolize her loneliness.

• They are a hobby of hers.

• They foreshadow her sinister nature.

• They are a sign of wealth.