Literature and Family Dynamics Quiz

Questions and Answers

How does Calvin feel about his family?

He doesn't feel like he matters. His mother doesn't take good care of herself or her children. He doesn't feel that he fits in with them.

Why is Meg good at math?

Her father taught her some shortcuts.

Why does Mrs. Murry think Meg does so poorly in school?

The teachers want her to do things their way. Meg refuses to do things the way the teachers want her to.

What did Calvin read Charles Wallace at bedtime?

The Book of Genesis Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'different essence' according to Mrs. Murry, and who might be an example of this?

A different spirit or way of thinking and behaving. Charles Wallace has a different essence. Signup and view all the answers

During their walk, what does Meg tell Calvin about her father?

She thinks her father is on a secret mission from the government. Signup and view all the answers

How are Calvin and Meg's father alike in Meg's eyes?

They are both intelligent and they both care about other people. Signup and view all the answers

Who interrupts their walk, and why?

Charles Wallace. He says it is time to go and find father. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the differences between Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which.

Mrs. Whatsit is the one who first came to see the family and communicates with Charles the most. Mrs. Who is the one who was sewing the sheets when they came to the haunted house; she wears glasses and has trouble expressing herself verbally and often quotes famous people instead. Mrs. Which is the last one they met; she is almost transparent and her words come out in long drawn out sounds. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the journey the children take with the Mrs. W's?

To find Mr. Murry and bring him home. Signup and view all the answers

What is the conflict of this novel?

Meg wants to defeat the Black Thing and restore her family. Signup and view all the answers

What is the tone of this novel?

Suspenseful Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Family and Personal Feelings

Calvin feels insignificant in his family dynamics, believing he does not matter.
His mother neglects her own and her children's well-being, contributing to Calvin's feeling of not fitting in.

Academic Abilities

Meg excels in math due to shortcuts taught by her father, showcasing her intelligence.

Educational Struggles

Meg's poor performance in school is attributed to her refusal to conform to teachers' methods, leading to friction with educators.

Literature and Influence

Calvin reads "The Book of Genesis" to Charles Wallace at bedtime, indicating a transfer of knowledge and values.

Individuality

A "different essence," as described by Mrs. Murry, refers to unique spirits or thought processes. Charles Wallace exemplifies this individuality.

Speculation on Family

Meg shares her belief with Calvin that her father is involved in a secret government mission, highlighting her worries and curiosity.

Parallels in Characters

Meg finds similarities between Calvin and her father, noting both exhibit intelligence and compassion for others.

Sudden Interruptions

Charles Wallace interrupts Meg and Calvin's walk, emphasizing his role in guiding their actions and decisions.

Character Distinctions

Mrs. Whatsit is the first to visit and connects with Charles; Mrs. Who has communication difficulties, often quoting others; Mrs. Which is ethereal and speaks in elongated phrases.

Purpose of the Journey

The children's journey with the Mrs. Ws is aimed at locating Mr. Murry and bringing him back home, underlining a theme of family reunion.

Central Conflict

The novel's conflict centers on Meg's determination to combat the Black Thing and mend her fractured family.

Narrative Tone

The tone throughout the novel remains suspenseful, enhancing the reader's engagement with the unfolding story.

Description

Explore the intricate family relationships and personal feelings depicted in the text. Delve into Meg and Calvin's educational struggles while uncovering themes of individuality and influence. Test your understanding of how literature shapes their experiences and beliefs.