Historical Context in 12th Century Korea

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Questions and Answers

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?

"Have you eaten well today?"

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?

a farmer with a jiggeh which held a basket that had a hole allowing the rice to come out in a stream Signup and view all the answers

What decision did Tree-ear make when he reached the bend in the road?

tell the man what was happening Signup and view all the answers

What did Tree-ear think of the farmer's nature?

liked his easygoing nature Signup and view all the answers

Why did the farmer allow Tree-ear to gather the basket's spilled contents?

Tree-ear had done something good for him, and he deserved something good in return Signup and view all the answers

From Crane-man's example, which of the following was not an honorable way to garner food?

depending on the charity and kindness of others Signup and view all the answers

How did Crane-man feel about stealing and begging?

it made a man no better than a dog and took dignity away Signup and view all the answers

What did Tree-ear wonder about his actions regarding the farmer's basket?

if it had been stealing Signup and view all the answers

What did Crane-man say about questions of right and wrong?

they kept a man's mind sharp and his thoughts off his empty stomach Signup and view all the answers

What did Tree-ear say the farmer would do if he found out about Tree-ear's actions?

laugh Signup and view all the answers

What did Crane-man say about reading?

we must learn to read the world itself Signup and view all the answers

What was Tree-ear named after?

a mushroom that grew in wrinkled half-circles on dead or fallen tree trunks Signup and view all the answers

What did Tree-ear no longer remember?

if he had ever had another name or the family who might have given him another name Signup and view all the answers

Why could Crane-man not leave the space under the bridge?

of the twisted calf and foot he had been born with Signup and view all the answers

Why was Crane-man said to be like a crane?

because he went through life standing on one leg Signup and view all the answers

In Tree-ear and Crane-man's world, what were cranes a symbol of?

long life Signup and view all the answers

Why did Crane-man come to live under the bridge?

he had outlived all his family and was unable to work Signup and view all the answers

What did Crane-man not remember?

how long he had been living under the bridge Signup and view all the answers

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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Description

Explore the rich historical and cultural backdrop of 12th century Korea as depicted in the story. Delve into the lives of the characters Tree-ear and Crane-man, who embody resilience and moral integrity amidst their struggles for survival. This quiz examines the themes of honesty, dignity, and the significance of community customs in their lives.