Exploring Themes in The Pearl

Which event at the beginning of "The Pearl" sets the main conflict of the story in motion?

• Kino dreams of finding a pearl

• Coyotito is stung by a scorpion and the family is denied medical help

• The villagers gather for a festival

• Juana prays for good fortune

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.5.7

CCSS.RL.6.9

How does Steinbeck introduce the theme of inequality in the opening chapter of "The Pearl"?

• By describing the wealth of the town’s doctor compared to Kino’s poverty

• By showing Kino’s success as a pearl diver

• By focusing on the beauty of the village

• By having the priest visit Kino’s home

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.5.3

CCSS.RL.5.7

CCSS.RL.6.9

What motivates Kino to dive for pearls after Coyotito is stung, and how does this motivation shape his actions?

• He wants to impress the villagers, leading him to boast about his skills

• He seeks a pearl to pay for Coyotito’s treatment, driving his determination and hope

• He is searching for food, which distracts him from his family

• He is competing with other divers for fame

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.3

CCSS.RL.7.3

CCSS.RL.8.3

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

CCSS.RL.11-12.3

In the context of the first chapter, how does the reaction of the doctor to Kino’s request for help reveal the social dynamics of the village?

• The doctor’s refusal shows the deep divide between the wealthy and the poor

• The doctor’s kindness unites the community

• The doctor’s absence is not noticed by anyone

• The doctor’s actions inspire Kino to become a doctor himself

Which character refuses to treat Coyotito at first?

• The priest

• The pearl buyers

• The doctor

• Juan Tomas

What does Kino hope to achieve by selling the pearl?

• Buy a new house

• Send Coyotito to school

• Travel to the city

• Become a fisherman

Who warns Kino about the dangers of the pearl?

• The doctor

• Juana

• The priest

• The pearl buyers

What do the pearl buyers try to do when Kino brings them the pearl?

• Offer him a fair price

• Refuse to buy it

• Cheat him by offering a low price

• Steal the pearl

How does the community react to Kino's discovery of the pearl?

• They celebrate with him

• They become envious and suspicious

• They ignore him

• They help him sell it

What does Juana attempt to do with the pearl after seeing its effects on Kino and their family?

• Hide it

• Sell it herself

• Throw it back into the sea

• Give it to the priest