Themes and Characters in 'The Sign of the Beaver'

The video explores Elizabeth George Spears' 'The Sign of the Beaver', a story about a young English boy, Matt, in colonial America. Left alone in the Maine wilderness, Matt befriends Atin, a Penobscot boy, who teaches him survival skills. Their friendship bridges cultural divides, and Matt grows into a skilled woodsman and empathetic ally. The narrative highlights themes of survival, cultural exchange, and the impact of colonization. As Matt's family returns, the story concludes with hope for peaceful coexistence.

What year was 'The Sign of the Beaver' published?

• 1983

• 1997

• 2000

• 1768

What task is Matt Hollowell left with in the wilderness?

• Building a new cabin

• Safeguarding a remote cabin

• Exploring the forest

• Hunting for food

Who rescues Matt when he encounters danger in the wilderness?

• His father

• A stranger named Ben

• Saakes and his grandson Atin

• A group of settlers

What skill does Matt teach Atin in exchange for food?

• Building shelters

• Fishing

• Hunting

• English literacy

What does Atin reveal about the colonists' practices?

• They build large settlements

• They trap animals for hides

• They trade with the Penobscot

• They plant crops in the forest

What story does Atin share that is similar to a biblical tale?

• The story of David and Goliath

• The story of Moses

• The story of the Good Samaritan

• A tale akin to Noah's Ark

How does Matt earn the respect of Atin's family and village?

• By teaching them English

• By building a new cabin

• By rescuing Atin's dog

• By hunting a bear

What marks Atin's transition into manhood?

• A ceremonial top knot

• A new name

• A special feast

• A new hunting skill

What does Matt hope for regarding Atin's tribe?

• They will move to a city

• They will find new hunting grounds

• They will trade with more settlers

• They will relocate peacefully to uncolonized lands

What condition is Matt's family in upon their return?

• Healthy and strong

• Lost in the wilderness

• Weakened by typhus

• Eager to explore