Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who is Bell?
Who is Bell?
Travis' first dog who was bit on the nose by a rattler which had its head chopped off by Travis's dad.
What is an example of a simile in the story?
What is an example of a simile in the story?
Slung him toward Mama like he was a half empty sack of corn.
How is the relationship between Travis and Old Yeller similar to the relationship between Travis and Arliss?
How is the relationship between Travis and Old Yeller similar to the relationship between Travis and Arliss?
Travis thinks that Old Yeller is not worth much and sees him as a nuisance just like Arliss.
How is Old Yeller showing that he is an unusual animal?
How is Old Yeller showing that he is an unusual animal?
How is shooting the doe a test for Travis?
How is shooting the doe a test for Travis?
Who is Jumper?
Who is Jumper?
Who is Little Arliss Coates?
Who is Little Arliss Coates?
What is Ma (Mrs. Coates) like?
What is Ma (Mrs. Coates) like?
What does Old Yeller look like?
What does Old Yeller look like?
What does POV stand for?
What does POV stand for?
What is the setting of the story?
What is the setting of the story?
Who is Travis Coates?
Who is Travis Coates?
What responsibilities does Travis have while his dad is away?
What responsibilities does Travis have while his dad is away?
What is the relationship like between Travis and Arliss?
What is the relationship like between Travis and Arliss?
What tests does Travis face in the first 5 chapters?
What tests does Travis face in the first 5 chapters?
Why does Old Yeller run away from the bulls but attack the bear?
Why does Old Yeller run away from the bulls but attack the bear?
Study Notes
Characters
- Travis Coates: 14-year-old main character; responsible for family tasks while his father is away; desires a horse but is given a dog.
- Old Yeller: Yellow-furred dog with a distinctive bark; brave and protective, especially of Little Arliss; shows spunk and intelligence.
- Little Arliss Coates: Travis's 5-year-old brother; mischievous and adventurous; often found causing trouble, including getting into the drinking water.
- Ma (Mrs. Coates): Patient and understanding mother; defends her children and helps maintain family harmony.
- Bell: Travis' first dog; bitten by a rattlesnake, setting off a chain of events that shapes Travis's views on dogs.
- Jumper: Family mule known for jumping fences to quit work.
Themes and Relationships
- Travis and Old Yeller: Initially sees Old Yeller as a nuisance, similar to how he perceives Arliss; their relationship develops as the story progresses.
- Travis and Arliss: Strained relationship; Arliss' bratty behavior frustrates Travis, who is burdened with adult responsibilities.
Plot Points
- Setting is post-Civil War, around 1865 near Salt Lick, Texas, in a log cabin by Birdsong Creek.
- Travis faces several tests of maturity and bravery, including hunting, taking care of the farm, and protecting his brother.
- Old Yeller's bravery is highlighted when he defends Arliss from a bear, demonstrating loyalty and protection despite fleeing from bulls.
Important Events
- Shooting a doe serves as a test of Travis's marksmanship and maturity.
- Travis takes on various chores and responsibilities, including milking cows, wood chopping, and repairing fences.
Literary Elements
- Simile example: "slung him toward Mama like he was a half empty sack of corn," illustrating a vivid comparison.
- Narrative perspective is first-person from Travis's point of view, providing insight into his thoughts and feelings.
Additional Notes
- Old Yeller's intelligence is shown through his ability to climb a barrel to access food.
- The story emphasizes themes of responsibility, family dynamics, and the bond between humans and animals.
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Description
Explore the key characters and themes in the story of 'Old Yeller'. This quiz highlights the relationships between Travis, Old Yeller, and his family members, as well as the growth of these relationships throughout the narrative. Test your understanding of the characters' roles and themes of bravery, responsibility, and familial bonds.
