Podcast
Questions and Answers
What do the young woman and the colonel argue about?
What do the young woman and the colonel argue about?
They argue about how women and men have or do not have more nerve control than one another.
When does the American first realize that something is wrong?
When does the American first realize that something is wrong?
When he sees the hostess staring straight ahead with the muscles in her face contracting.
What does the American do when he sees the snake bait being put on the verandah?
What does the American do when he sees the snake bait being put on the verandah?
He checks the rafters and corners for the snake but doesn't check under the table.
Who turns out to have the most control of anyone in this story?
Who turns out to have the most control of anyone in this story?
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How does the young woman show that she is not free from prejudice?
How does the young woman show that she is not free from prejudice?
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What does the hostess whisper to the servant?
What does the hostess whisper to the servant?
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Does the American show 'that last ounce of control'?
Does the American show 'that last ounce of control'?
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What is the purpose of this story?
What is the purpose of this story?
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What was your reaction to the host's praise of the American scientist?
What was your reaction to the host's praise of the American scientist?
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If the colonel made this same argument today, what responses would he likely get?
If the colonel made this same argument today, what responses would he likely get?
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Suppose the American had said nothing at all to the guests. How do you think the story would have ended?
Suppose the American had said nothing at all to the guests. How do you think the story would have ended?
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With whom do you think the author agrees: the colonel or the young girl?
With whom do you think the author agrees: the colonel or the young girl?
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What do you think the young girl might have said to the colonel after it was revealed that the cobra had been crawling across the hostess's foot?
What do you think the young girl might have said to the colonel after it was revealed that the cobra had been crawling across the hostess's foot?
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Study Notes
Arguments on Nerve Control
- The young woman and the colonel debate the nerve control capabilities of men versus women, emphasizing perceptions of gender differences.
American's Realization
- The American becomes aware of a problem upon noticing the hostess’s tense facial muscles and her fixed stare, indicating distress.
American's Reaction to Snake Bait
- Upon seeing snake bait placed on the veranda, the American instinctively checks for the snake but neglects to look under the table where it could be hiding.
The Mistress’s Control
- The mistress exemplifies control by remaining composed when she feels a snake on her leg and calmly instructs to put out bait.
Prejudice and Calmness
- The hostess challenges the colonel's view by demonstrating that women can be as calm as men in tense situations.
Hostess's Instruction
- The hostess discreetly instructs a servant to place a bowl of milk on the veranda, indicating her level of concern and control over the situation.
American's Control in Crisis
- The American maintains composure during the crisis, displaying control by remaining still and proposing a game to keep guests calm.
Story's Purpose
- The narrative aims to illustrate that women possess comparable control and inquisitiveness to men, countering stereotypes.
Host's Praise for Scientist
- The host's focus on praising the American scientist, rather than acknowledging the hostess, reflects a lack of awareness of the overall situation despite recognizing the scientist's self-control.
Colonel's Argument Today
- If the colonel's argument were presented today, it would likely face criticism due to the evolved understanding of women's rights and capabilities.
Alternate Outcome Without Intervention
- If the American had remained silent, the potential chaos among guests could have resulted in a dangerous situation, possibly leading to a snake bite.
Author's Perspective
- The author appears to favor the young woman's perspective, as she ultimately demonstrates heroism and control, disproving the colonel's beliefs.
Hypothetical Aftermath of Revelation
- Speculation about the discussion between the young girl and colonel after the revelation of the cobra's presence suggests a tension-filled conversation where the colonel might struggle to acknowledge his error.
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Description
Explore the complex interactions between men and women in moments of crisis through various narratives. This quiz highlights debates on nerve control and gender perceptions, showcasing how calmness and control are exhibited in stressful situations. Test your understanding of these themes and their implications in the stories presented.
