Podcast
Questions and Answers
Ausable's character subverts the typical spy archetype primarily by emphasizing which trait?
Ausable's character subverts the typical spy archetype primarily by emphasizing which trait?
- His proficiency in hand-to-hand combat.
- His intellectual cunning and calm demeanor under pressure. (correct)
- His reliance on sophisticated gadgets and weaponry.
- His remarkable physical strength and agility.
How does Ausable exploit Max's expectations and assumptions to his advantage?
How does Ausable exploit Max's expectations and assumptions to his advantage?
- By negotiating a peaceful resolution, promising to share valuable secrets in exchange for Max's departure.
- By revealing his true identity as a double agent working for Max's organization.
- By creating a fictitious scenario involving a balcony and the imminent arrival of the police. (correct)
- By engaging Max in a physical confrontation to demonstrate his superior combat skills.
Which element of the story contributes most significantly to the theme of 'Appearance vs. Reality?'
Which element of the story contributes most significantly to the theme of 'Appearance vs. Reality?'
- Fowler's initial disappointment with Ausable's uncharacteristic spy appearance contrasted with Ausable's cunning intellect. (correct)
- The presence of an automatic pistol, which initially signifies danger but ultimately proves ineffective.
- The romantic Parisian setting juxtaposed with the mundane reality of Ausable's hotel room.
- The contrast between Max's menacing appearance and his ultimate gullibility.
In what way does the setting of a dimly lit hotel room in Paris contribute to the overall atmosphere and thematic elements of the story?
In what way does the setting of a dimly lit hotel room in Paris contribute to the overall atmosphere and thematic elements of the story?
How does the author use irony to enhance the reader's understanding of Ausable's character and abilities?
How does the author use irony to enhance the reader's understanding of Ausable's character and abilities?
What is the most significant consequence of Ausable's ability to remain composed and think strategically under pressure?
What is the most significant consequence of Ausable's ability to remain composed and think strategically under pressure?
How does the story's climax challenge Fowler's initial expectations of espionage and secret agents?
How does the story's climax challenge Fowler's initial expectations of espionage and secret agents?
Consider the narrative structure of 'The Midnight Visitor.' How does Robert Arthur Jr. build suspense leading up to Max's fatal jump?
Consider the narrative structure of 'The Midnight Visitor.' How does Robert Arthur Jr. build suspense leading up to Max's fatal jump?
Flashcards
Ausable
Ausable
Secret agent in "The Midnight Visitor," unlike typical spy; he's fat and uses his wit.
Fowler
Fowler
Young, romantic writer who meets Ausable and expects to see a more exciting spy.
Max
Max
Rival secret agent, slender with a "fox-like face," carries a pistol, and tries to intimidate Ausable.
Ausable's Strategy
Ausable's Strategy
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The Balcony Trick
The Balcony Trick
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Twists and Irony
Twists and Irony
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Appearance vs. Reality
Appearance vs. Reality
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Intelligence and Wit
Intelligence and Wit
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Study Notes
- "The Midnight Visitor" is a short story by Robert Arthur Jr.
- The story follows Ausable, a secret agent, and his encounter with an intruder in his hotel room.
- Ausable is presented as an atypical secret agent.
Characters
- Ausable: A secret agent who doesn't fit the stereotype; he is overweight, speaks with an American accent, and lives in Paris.
- Fowler: A young, romantic writer excited to meet a spy, but disappointed by Ausable's appearance and demeanor.
- Max: The antagonist, a rival secret agent, slender with a "fox-like face," who carries an automatic pistol.
Plot Summary
- Fowler meets Ausable, expecting thrilling spy activities.
- He finds Ausable in a dimly lit room in a French hotel.
- Max, an intruder, is already in Ausable's room, armed with a pistol.
Ausable's Strategy
- Ausable remains calm, using his wit to handle the situation.
- He creates a story about a balcony outside the window to deceive Max.
- Ausable claims the balcony belongs to his room and that he has complained about previous intrusions.
The Knock at the Door
- Someone knocks; Ausable tells Fowler it must be the police, requested for extra protection of an expected important document.
- Max becomes nervous, wanting to escape through the balcony to avoid the police.
The Climax
- Max jumps out of the window and falls to his death because no balcony exists.
- Ausable fabricated the existence of the balcony to trick Max.
Twists and Irony
- The story has irony, as Ausable doesn't fit the conventional secret agent image.
- Ausable's appearance and the setting (a gloomy hotel room) contrast with Fowler's expectations.
- Ausable's quick thinking and storytelling are his real weapons.
Themes
- Appearance vs. Reality: Appearances can be deceiving; Ausable is capable despite not looking like a typical spy.
- Intelligence and Wit: These can be more powerful than physical strength.
- Deception: The story involves deception, with Ausable deceiving Max to save himself and Fowler.
Setting
- The story is set in Ausable's hotel room in Paris.
- The initial atmosphere is dull, building surprise when Max appears.
Narrative Style
- The story is narrated from Fowler's perspective, experiencing events through someone expecting a glamorous adventure.
- The story incorporates suspense and intrigue, with a clever resolution.
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Description
Explore Robert Arthur Jr.'s short story, "The Midnight Visitor," featuring secret agent Ausable. Discover the characters, including Ausable, Fowler, and Max, and delve into the plot summary. Learn about Ausable's unique strategies in this intriguing tale.
