Questions and Answers
Because the job is difficult, we have asked several departments to _______ to find a solution.
collaborate
After the art show, people sought out the painter to ____ her for her work.
commend
He was prepared for good-natured criticism of his work, but he did not expect the _____ that appeared in the newspaper.
diatribe
The students came up with their own ______ for raising money for the class trip.
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The public was advised to prepare for the hurricane by stocking up on ______ like water and canned goods.
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We were shocked at the ______ behavior of the child, who showed no respect for his parents or his teacher.
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The kidnappers demanded a _____ for the return of the child.
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If you do not ______ with the rules, you will not be allowed to participate in the game.
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What is the initial conflict in the story?
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How does Ebenezer Dorset surprise Sam and Bill?
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What is the climax of the plot in O. Henry's story 'The Ransom of Red Chief'?
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What foreshadowing occurs early in the story?
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What is one of the abuses that Johnny heaps upon Bill Driscoll?
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Where do the kidnappers hide little Johnny?
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What is ironic about the way that the kidnappers sign their ransom note?
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Which is the best description of Johnny Dorset?
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Why do Bill and Sam run out of town?
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What is the point of view for this story?
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What are Bill and Sam's reasons for kidnapping Johnny?
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Study Notes
Vocabulary
- Collaborate: Work together with multiple departments to find a solution to a difficult job.
- Commend: Praise or express approval, typically for someone's work, such as an artist after an art show.
- Diatribe: A bitter and abusive criticism, exemplified by an unexpected harsh review in a newspaper.
- Proposition: An idea or suggestion proposed for consideration, like students' fundraising ideas for a class trip.
- Provisions: Supplies, particularly necessary items like food and water, to prepare for emergencies such as hurricanes.
- Impudent: Inappropriately bold or disrespectful behavior, especially seen in a child's attitude towards authority figures.
- Ransom: A sum of money demanded for the return of a kidnapped individual.
- Comply: To obey or adhere to rules or requests, necessary for participation in activities.
Plot Summary
- The initial conflict arises when Sam and Bill need $2,000 and decide to kidnap a child as a means to achieve their goal.
- Ebenezer Dorset surprises the kidnappers by demanding $250 to take his son, Johnny, off their hands instead of paying the ransom.
- The climax of the story occurs when Mr. Dorset's letter reveals the unexpected payment demand from the kidnappers.
- Foreshadowing is used early in the narrative, indicated by Johnny's violent actions, such as throwing rocks at a kitten.
Character Dynamics
- Johnny Dorset, described as a freckled-face boy with red hair, enjoys playing imaginative games and exhibits disruptive behavior towards his captors.
- Johnny abuses Bill Driscoll by kicking his shins, showcasing his troublesome nature.
- The kidnappers, initially confident, become desperate as they face the reality of their situation.
Setting and Action
- Johnny is hidden away in a buggy and later taken to a cave as the kidnappers attempt to keep him secluded.
- The story is told from a first-person perspective, adding a personal touch to the narrative.
- The ironic twist lies in the kidnappers signing the ransom note as "Two Desperate Men," highlighting their changed circumstances as they yearn to return Johnny to his father.
Resolution
- Bill and Sam flee the town, prompted by Ebenezer's warning that Johnny will be loose in ten minutes, indicating their failure in the kidnapping plot.
- Bill and Sam's motives stem from needing funds to support another criminal scheme, further complicating their predicament.
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Description
Test your vocabulary skills with flashcards based on 'The Ransom of Red Chief'. Each card features a word along with its definition to help reinforce your understanding. Perfect for students looking to expand their lexicon through context-driven learning.