Character Roles and Events in Matilda

The transcript provides a glimpse into the life of Matilda, a young girl living in Philadelphia in 1793. It describes her family dynamics, the operation of their coffeehouse, and the historical context of the time. Matilda's interactions with her mother and Eliza, a free black woman who works for them, reveal the social and cultural norms of the period. The narrative also touches on Matilda's aspirations and the tragic news of Polly's death, which foreshadows the challenges ahead.

What is the primary setting of the story introduced in the beginning?

• A quiet countryside

• A large city mansion

• A family-owned coffee house

• A bustling marketplace

What event helped improve the business of the Cook Coffee House?

• The opening of a new market

• The construction of President Washington's house nearby

• A new road being built

• A famous celebrity visiting the coffee house

What is Eliza's role in the Cook family?

• She is a cook at the coffee house

• She is a family friend

• She is a business partner

• She is a distant relative

How did Eliza gain her freedom?

• She was born free

• She escaped from slavery

• She was freed by her owner

• Her husband bought her freedom

What are Matilda's aspirations for her future?

• To become a teacher

• To become a famous chef

• To travel to France and own a business

• To marry a wealthy man

What does Matilda plan to bring back from France?

• Fine wines

• Rare books

• Black fabric and jewelry

• Exotic spices

How does Matilda feel about being called 'Little Maddie'?

• She finds it endearing

• She is indifferent

• She dislikes it

• She is proud of it

What tragic news does Matilda learn about Polly?

• Polly has died

• Polly has fallen ill

• Polly has gotten married

• Polly has moved away

How does Matilda's mother react to Polly's absence?

• She is relieved and takes over Polly's duties

• She is indifferent and continues with her work

• She is angry and threatens to fire her

• She is worried and sends someone to check on her

What does Matilda's mother believe about serving girls and illness?

• They should rest when ill

• They often get sick

• They should work through illness

• They never get sick