Podcast
Questions and Answers
Where did Tree-ear's story take place?
Where did Tree-ear's story take place?
in Korea in the 12th century
How did the well-fed of the village greet each other politely?
How did the well-fed of the village greet each other politely?
"Have you eaten well today?"
What did Crane-man want to hear about Tree-ear?
What did Crane-man want to hear about Tree-ear?
how Tree-ear had found his way back to the bridge
What did Tree-ear get behind on his morning perusal of the village rubbish heaps?
What did Tree-ear get behind on his morning perusal of the village rubbish heaps?
What decision did Tree-ear make when he reached the bend in the road?
What decision did Tree-ear make when he reached the bend in the road?
What did Tree-ear think of the farmer's nature?
What did Tree-ear think of the farmer's nature?
Why did the farmer allow Tree-ear to gather the basket's spilled contents?
Why did the farmer allow Tree-ear to gather the basket's spilled contents?
From Crane-man's example, which of the following was not an honorable way to garner food?
From Crane-man's example, which of the following was not an honorable way to garner food?
How did Crane-man feel about stealing and begging?
How did Crane-man feel about stealing and begging?
What did Tree-ear wonder about his actions regarding the farmer's basket?
What did Tree-ear wonder about his actions regarding the farmer's basket?
What did Crane-man say about questions of right and wrong?
What did Crane-man say about questions of right and wrong?
What did Tree-ear say the farmer would do if he found out about Tree-ear's actions?
What did Tree-ear say the farmer would do if he found out about Tree-ear's actions?
What did Crane-man say about reading?
What did Crane-man say about reading?
What was Tree-ear named after?
What was Tree-ear named after?
What did Tree-ear no longer remember?
What did Tree-ear no longer remember?
Why could Crane-man not leave the space under the bridge?
Why could Crane-man not leave the space under the bridge?
Why was Crane-man said to be like a crane?
Why was Crane-man said to be like a crane?
In Tree-ear and Crane-man's world, what were cranes a symbol of?
In Tree-ear and Crane-man's world, what were cranes a symbol of?
Why did Crane-man come to live under the bridge?
Why did Crane-man come to live under the bridge?
What did Crane-man not remember?
What did Crane-man not remember?
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Study Notes
Setting and Context
- The story unfolds in 12th century Korea, providing a historical and cultural backdrop.
- Village customs include a polite greeting revolving around food, emphasizing the significance of meals in the community.
Characters
- Tree-ear is an orphan, named after a mushroom growing without parental support, symbolizing resilience.
- Crane-man, Tree-ear's companion, has a physical disability that prevents him from leaving their shared space under the bridge.
Key Themes and Concepts
- Honesty and morality are central themes, explored through Tree-ear’s thoughts on stealing and the nature of good deeds.
- Crane-man teaches that dignity comes from self-sufficiency, rejecting begging and theft as demeaning actions.
Events and Interactions
- Tree-ear searches through village rubbish heaps, illustrating the struggle for survival and the resourcefulness needed in their circumstances.
- A farmer converses with Tree-ear about patience and generosity, allowing Tree-ear to collect spilled rice as a reward for his kindness.
Philosophical Insights
- Discussions between Tree-ear and Crane-man highlight the importance of understanding right from wrong, keeping one's mind sharp in face of hunger.
- Crane-man emphasizes learning from life experiences rather than formal education, reflecting on the value of practical wisdom.
Symbolism
- Cranes represent long life in their world, linking the characters' lives to broader themes of endurance and survival.
- Crane-man's ability to navigate life on one leg symbolizes adaptation and resilience against hardships.
Character Development
- Tree-ear grapples with his identity and his past, having forgotten any previous name or family ties, reflecting feelings of isolation.
- Crane-man’s advanced age and experiences serve as a mentor role for Tree-ear, providing guidance in a harsh world.
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