"Cell One" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

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Questions and Answers

Why did the family avoid discussing the robbery with Nnamabia after it occurred?

The stolen jewelry was recovered, making the discussion unnecessary.
They wanted to give Nnamabia a chance to start over without dwelling on his actions. (correct)
They were afraid of Nnamabia's reaction and potential violence.
Mrs. Mozie requested they not discuss it to protect her reputation.

What triggered the escalation of violence between cults on the Nsukka campus?

The introduction of American rap videos, which promoted violent behavior among students.
A university-wide ban on fraternities, leading to underground operations.
Increased police presence on campus, provoking the cults into demonstrating their power.
A series of escalating retaliatory attacks between rival cults over minor disputes and perceived insults. (correct)

What impact did the cult violence have on the university community?

Lecturers gained more respect as they were seen as neutral parties.
The violence had little impact outside of the directly involved cult members.
Increased enrollment as students sought protection in numbers.
Students and lecturers lived in fear, with girls staying in their rooms and lecturers feeling threatened. (correct)

What detail indicates the ineffectiveness of the police in curbing the cult violence?

The cult members possessed more advanced weaponry than the police. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What led the narrator's parents to become concerned about Nnamabia's involvement with cults?

Cult members were popular, and Nnamabia was very popular. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase "It was so abnormal that it quickly became normal" suggest about the university environment?

The extreme violence became commonplace and accepted as part of daily life. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of 'tortured loyalties' in the cult conflicts?

They motivated members to commit extreme acts of violence against rival cults. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the mention of signs all over the university reading 'B' suggest about the mentioned groups?

The groups were openly recruiting members. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested by the detail that the window louvers were removed from the inside during the second robbery?

Nnamabia was involved in the robbery and tried to stage it to look like an external break-in. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about her relationship with Nnamabia when she mentions they usually nudged each other and stifled giggles in church?

They were very close and shared a playful, mischievous bond. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the author's description of the open drawers in the parlor contribute to the story?

It introduces a hint of skepticism regarding the authenticity of the robbery. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from the fact that the father knew exactly where the mother's jewelry was kept?

The robber had inside information about where to find valuable items. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does the detail of Nnamabia returning to church 'just before the priest said, “The Mass is ended, go in peace”' imply?

He wanted to ensure his absence wouldn't be noticed. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why might Nnamabia have been 'usually smarter' than slipping up with the window louvres?

He was in a hurry to get back to church before his absence was noticed. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the author's use of the word 'queasiness' contribute to the reader's understanding of her reaction to the robbery?

It suggests a feeling of unease and suspicion about the events. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does the inclusion of specific details like 'Purple Rain' and 'Thriller' videotapes in the first robbery suggest about the family?

The family valued American culture and consumer goods. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason Nnamabia is disturbed by the old man's presence in his cell?

The old man's frail condition and unjust imprisonment highlight the corruption and injustice of the police system. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why does Nnamabia want to give some of his rice to the old man?

He feels sympathy for the old man's suffering and wants to alleviate his hunger. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What prevents Nnamabia from directly giving the rice to the old man?

Nnamabia fears that the 'chief' of the cell will confiscate the rice. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the policeman at the desk react to Nnamabia's father's request to see the old man?

He responds with sarcasm and refuses, citing the risk he already took by letting Nnamabia out. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What action do the policemen take that further exacerbates the old man's suffering?

They splash soapy water on the floor and walls of the cell, knowing he hasn't bathed. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does this passage suggest about the common practices of the police described?

They sometimes resort to detaining relatives of suspects when they cannot find the actual suspect. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the old man's 'old-fashioned dignity'?

It emphasizes the loss of status and respect he experiences in prison and helps illustrate his unjust treatment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does Nnamabia's behavior change after the old man arrives in his cell?

He becomes more withdrawn, subdued, and preoccupied with the old man's wellbeing. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary emotion Nnamabia expresses when recounting his observation of the 'tough' boy in the cell?

Disgust and disappointment at the revelation of the boy's vulnerability. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Cell One in the context of Nnamabia's prison experience?

It serves as a constant reminder of the potential consequences of disobedience. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the description of the prisoners bathing and the policemen's reactions suggest about the prison's environment?

The prison is overcrowded, and resources are tightly controlled, leading to restrictions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does Nnamabia's reaction to the kwalikwata bites and his cellmates' mockery contribute to the overall atmosphere of the cell?

It underscores the dehumanizing conditions and lack of empathy among inmates. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What inference can be drawn from the chief's sleeping arrangements and the distribution of rice?

The chief maintains a position of authority and privilege within the cell. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why does the narrator want Nnamabia to stop talking about his experiences?

The narrator is uncomfortable with Nnamabia's apparent enjoyment of his role as a sufferer and his lack of awareness about his precarious situation. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the policeman's demeanor suggest about his initial uncertainty regarding Nnamabia?

He was concerned about Nnamabia's actual guilt or innocence. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the choice of using the father's old Volvo instead of the mother's Peugeot suggest about the family's circumstances?

The family has limited resources and prioritizes safety over comfort. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The policeman's excuse for Nnamabia's beating implies a criticism of what aspect of the parents?

Their perceived sense of entitlement and leniency. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from the observation that the narrator's parents were acting “differently” by the end of the week?

The parents are struggling to cope with the emotional and financial strain of Nnamabia's imprisonment. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the detail about the father not stopping at police checkpoints significant?

It shows his fear for Nnamabia's safety and desire to avoid further conflict. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely reason the mother offers Nnamabia okpa during the drive home?

To provide a sense of normalcy and comfort after his traumatic experience. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Nnamabia's account of the old man and the bucket of water primarily serves to highlight what?

The arbitrary cruelty and dehumanization within the prison system. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does Nnamabia's reaction to the treatment of the old man reveal about his character?

He possesses a strong sense of justice and empathy. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The narrator's imagined response of Nnamabia calling the policeman names suggests what about the narrator's perspective?

The narrator admires Nnamabia's courage and believes in his defiance. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Taken as a whole, the events in the passage suggest a society where...

Abuse of power and a lack of accountability are significant problems. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the parents' silence about the police suggest in this context?

They are prioritizing Nnamabia’s well-being and hoping to avoid actions that might jeopardize his release. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason the narrator initially suggests stopping the daily visits to Nnamabia?

To save money on petrol due to its high cost. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The narrator throws a stone at the car windshield. What does this action mainly symbolize?

A spontaneous outburst of frustration and anger. (D) Signup and view all the answers

The detail about the police commissioner's 'gloating, preening interviews' mainly serves to emphasize what?

The complex, high-stakes environment surrounding Nnamabia’s arrest. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does the author create a tense atmosphere in this passage?

By contrasting the parents’ usual outspokenness with their current silence. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Select the statement that accurately describes the superintendent's likely meaning when using the word 'delicate'.

Extracting Nnamabia from the situation requires careful handling to avoid complications. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from the policeman's remark about missing the mother's jollof rice?

The policeman is trying to establish a friendly rapport with the family. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Nnamabia appearance as 'oddly sober' contributes MOST to the understanding of which aspect of the story?

His understanding of the grave situation he is in. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mrs. Mozie

A woman who had gold imported from Italy.

Robbery

The act of taking someone's property illegally, often involving force or the threat of force.