The Pearl Chapter 2 Quiz & Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Why do you think Steinbeck put so much attention into describing the details of the setting in Chapter Two?

Steinbeck described the details of the setting to immerse the reader in the setting and illustrate Kino's connections to nature and wildlife. This description also serves as the calm before the storm in the story.

Choose five adjectives of your own to summarize the setting described in the opening of Chapter 2.

Lively, harmonious, colorful, mystical, and mysterious

Why is it said that the natives living on the shore don't trust their eyes?

The sea and land of the gulf were both detailed and vague, like their beliefs and dreams. They trust hazy beings and spirits, combining ancient magic and new prayers.

Why is Kino's canoe so important to him?

Kino's grandfather had been the first to purchase the canoe, making it an heirloom that serves as a source of food and protection. Signup and view all the answers

Do you think that Juana always accompanies Kino with the baby out to dive for pearls? Speculate why she may be going today.

Juana most likely does not always accompany Kino as he dives for pearls. Since the baby was so important to her, she might have wanted to feel a more spiritual connection from the ocean as she prayed, and be there as Kino searched for what could not only save their child, but improve all of their lives. Signup and view all the answers

In Chapter Two, why do you think Juana has waited so long to put a poultice on Coyotito's wound?

Juana had a certain faith in the doctor's authority and thought that her baby would be healthier if she prioritized visiting the doctor before doing anything else. Signup and view all the answers

Interpret the author's meaning in the quote: 'She had not prayed directly for the recovery of the baby - she had prayed that they might find a pearl with which to hire the doctor to cure the baby, for the minds of people are as unsubstantial as the mirage of the Gulf.'

Juana understands that realistically, they needed the money to save Coyotito, but also realizes that money could help solve their other problems, so she prayed for the finding of a pearl to solve all of these issues at once. Signup and view all the answers

What does Kino hope to find out in the ocean?

Kino hopes to find a valuable, beautiful pearl. Signup and view all the answers

What tools does Kino use when diving?

Ropes, stones, a basket, and canoe. Signup and view all the answers

What songs does Kino hear as he's gathering oysters on the ocean floor? Why do you think the author uses the concept of 'songs' in this chapter?

Kino hears the 'Song of the Pearl That Might Be.' This reflects Kino's thoughts and inner emotions about himself, his family, and his world, as well as his hopes to improve his own life. Signup and view all the answers

Once Kino comes back up to the surface, why does he wait until he has opened all the other pearls to open the oyster he thinks may contain a great pearl?

Because of his superstition, he does not want to drive away 'good luck' or appear too anxious as it may spoil his chances of finding a great pearl. Signup and view all the answers

Identify the irony at the end of Chapter Two.

Right when Kino finds the pearl, the baby seems to be cured. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Setting and Atmosphere

Steinbeck emphasizes detailed descriptions to create a vivid setting that connects Kino to nature and foreshadows upcoming turmoil.
The opening of Chapter Two features adjectives including lively, harmonious, colorful, mystical, and mysterious, reflecting the richness of the environment.

Trust and Perception

Natives living by the shore are described as suspicious of their own perceptions, suggesting their beliefs are shaped by both reality and mystical elements.
Their understanding of the world is deeply intertwined with ancient magic and modern prayers, leading to a complex relationship with their surroundings.

Kino's Canoe

The canoe is significant as an heirloom from Kino's grandfather, symbolizing heritage and a vital resource for sustenance and protection.

Juana's Role and Intuition

Juana’s presence during Kino’s pearl diving is not common; her motivation today could be a spiritual connection with the ocean and a desire to support Kino in his quest for a better life.
Juana prioritizes seeking a doctor for Coyotito’s wound over immediate treatment, reflecting her cultural deference to authority and hope in medical assistance.

Juana’s Prayer

Juana prays not for Coyotito’s direct recovery but for finding a pearl to afford the doctor, indicating her awareness of practical socioeconomic limitations.

Kino's Aspirations

Kino embarks on his dive hoping to uncover a pearl of significant value, which symbolizes his dreams and ambitions for a brighter future.

Diving Tools

When diving, Kino utilizes ropes, stones, a basket, and a canoe, which are essential for his pursuit of pearls.

Symbolic "Songs"

Kino hears the "Song of the Pearl That Might Be," which represents his inner thoughts, emotions about family, and aspirations, highlighting the thematic use of music in the narrative.

Superstition and Luck

Kino’s superstition prevents him from immediately opening the oyster he believes holds a valuable pearl, as he fears that eagerness could disrupt his fortune.

Irony in Discovery

The chapter concludes with irony; as Kino discovers the pearl, Coyotito's condition appears to improve, intertwining hope and despair.

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Description

Test your comprehension and analytical skills on Chapter 2 of 'The Pearl' by John Steinbeck. This quiz focuses on the author's detailed setting descriptions and their significance in the story. Engage with questions that deepen your understanding of the text.

The Pearl Chapter 2 Analysis Quiz

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