Grandpa's Unconventional Arrival

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Questions and Answers

What did the narrator's grandpa have tied shut with a rope?

An old suitcase (correct)

A bundle of clothes

A backpack

A gift

How did the narrator describe their grandpa's hair?

It was short and curly.

It was neatly combed.

It was shaved bald.

It was gray and messy. (correct)

What was notable about the grandpa's clothing?

He was dressed in casual attire.

He wore a military uniform.

He had a bright red satin shirt. (correct)

He wore a suit and tie.

What was the narrator's reaction upon greeting their grandpa?

They felt embarrassed. Signup and view all the answers

How did the narrator describe their grandpa's hand when they shook it?

It was bony and trembling. Signup and view all the answers

What was the mother's initial reaction upon seeing the narrator and grandpa?

She was surprised and gasped. Signup and view all the answers

What did the narrator do after shaking their grandpa's hand?

They picked up the suitcase and guided him. Signup and view all the answers

What did the narrator feel when they observed the fatigue in their grandpa's face?

Sadness Signup and view all the answers

What did the narrator feel when they recognized Grandpa walking down the street?

Embarrassment and shame. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the narrator not show Grandpa's picture to their friends?

They feared ridicule due to the contrast with their tales. Signup and view all the answers

How did the dogs in the neighborhood typically behave before the incident with Grandpa?

They barked from their yards individually. Signup and view all the answers

What was Grandpa wearing that made him recognizable to the narrator?

A tall black hat. Signup and view all the answers

How did the narrator react to the dogs' behavior towards Grandpa?

They ran to rescue Grandpa. Signup and view all the answers

What behavior did the dogs exhibit towards Grandpa as he walked down the street?

They growled and nipped at him. Signup and view all the answers

What was the narrator's initial intention when they saw the commotion?

To stop the dogs from bothering Grandpa. Signup and view all the answers

What did the narrator do to scare the dogs away from Grandpa?

They kicked and hollered at the dogs. Signup and view all the answers

What was Grandpa's reason for saving a hundred dollars?

For his funeral expenses Signup and view all the answers

How did Grandpa feel about being at the reservation?

He felt honored and appreciated the visit Signup and view all the answers

What did Dad express regret about?

Not bringing Grandpa with them during the summer Signup and view all the answers

What belief does Grandpa hold about timing?

Things happen when they are meant to Signup and view all the answers

What did Grandpa think about carrying so much money?

He didn't mind as long as he kept it safe Signup and view all the answers

What was Grandpa's reaction to the concern about the money?

He laughed and reassured them Signup and view all the answers

What emotional tone is conveyed through Grandpa's character?

He is proud and content Signup and view all the answers

What was the reaction of the children and dogs when Grandpa walked in the street?

They followed him out of curiosity Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential question that relates to the story's themes?

What are some milestones on the path to growing up? Signup and view all the answers

What does the symbolism of the dove with an olive branch represent?

Peace Signup and view all the answers

Why might Grandpa tell Martin a story about his father at this time?

To teach him a lesson about family Signup and view all the answers

What does analyzing text and citing textual evidence help you do?

Support your answers with clarity Signup and view all the answers

What can be concluded about Grandpa and Martin at the end of the story?

They grow closer through shared experiences Signup and view all the answers

What role does symbolism play in literature, according to the discussion?

It emphasizes specific ideas and adds meaning Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following questions would help evaluate Grandpa's decision to travel and visit his family?

What details in the story support or oppose his decision? Signup and view all the answers

What understanding do most Native American cultures have about nature?

Nature is considered to have spiritual qualities Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of Grandpa's father's vision quest?

To find a spirit guide for his life Signup and view all the answers

What significant symbol did Grandpa's father receive during his vision quest?

The white man's iron Signup and view all the answers

How did Grandpa's father prepare for his vision quest?

By fasting and praying after a sweat bath Signup and view all the answers

What emotional state characterized many young men at the time of the vision quest?

Despair and hatred Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of the iron kettle represent after the vision?

A connection to the white people Signup and view all the answers

What does Wakantanka refer to in the context of the vision quest?

The Great Spirit Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial reaction of the young men regarding searching for a vision?

They felt it was pointless Signup and view all the answers

Where did Grandpa's father conduct his vision quest?

On a high butte top Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction

The story begins with the narrator's initial introduction to his grandfather, who is portrayed as a mysterious and somewhat eccentric figure.
The narrator's friends never knew Grandpa's true appearance and considered the tales about him as mere fantasy.
The narrator's initial embarrassment and shame about his grandfather's appearance stem from the contrast between how he is portrayed in stories and his actual, perhaps unconventional, persona.

Grandpa's Arrival

Grandpa arrives at the narrator's neighborhood in a striking manner.
He is accompanied by a group of children and dogs, creating a chaotic scene.

The Narrator's Reaction

The narrator recognizes his grandfather immediately, despite his initial shock.
He feels a mixture of emotions, including fear, shame, and anger.
The dogs are described as "yippy poodles" and "mutts," highlighting the contrast between the dogs' normal behavior and their aggressive reaction to Grandpa.

The Narrator's Rescue

The narrator runs to rescue Grandpa from the dogs, demonstrating his protective instincts for his grandfather.
The dogs are easily scared away by the narrator's efforts, highlighting their initial lack of courage.
The children watching the scene offer a perspective on the unusual situation, emphasizing the contrast between Grandpa's appearance and societal expectations.

Grandpa's Introduction

Grandpa greets the narrator formally in Lakota, using the word "Hau," which signifies respect and formality.
The narrator is caught off guard by his grandfather's appearance and his traditional dress, which is out of place in the neighborhood.
He feels ashamed and wishes to disappear, highlighting the pressure he feels to conform to societal norms.

Grandpa's Journey

Grandpa, who is 86 years old, traveled a long distance alone and was initially unaware of his grandson's home address.
This reflects his courage and tenacity, despite his age and unfamiliarity with the area.
The narrator is revealed to be proud of his grandfather's journey.

Grandpa's Story

Grandpa's story revolves around his father's tradition of seeking a vision quest for spiritual guidance.
The story is set during a time of despair and hardship for the Lakota people after being confined to reservations.
Grandpa emphasizes the significance of Wakantanka, the Great Spirit, and how his father found guidance during a vision quest despite challenges and doubts.
The importance of the Lakota traditions and the pursuit of spiritual connection are stressed throughout the story.

The Vision

Grandpa's father had a vision during his quest, which involved finding "the white man's iron."
The white man's iron is a symbol of the collision between Lakota culture and the encroaching influence of white settlers. It represents both a source of conflict and a potential opportunity for adaptation.
The finding of the iron kettle further reinforced the significance of the vision, highlighting the importance of signs and symbols within Lakota spirituality.

Conclusion

The story concludes with a sense of understanding and acceptance of Grandpa's journey and his traditional beliefs.
The narrator finds pride in his grandfather's courage and resilience, even though he initially felt shame and embarrassment.
The importance of family, cultural heritage, and the pursuit of spiritual guidance are key themes intertwined throughout the story.

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Description

Explore the fascinating introduction of a mysterious grandfather through the eyes of the narrator. This quiz covers the narrator’s complex emotions and the chaotic scene surrounding Grandpa's arrival in the neighborhood. Delve into themes of perception and family dynamics.