The Pearl Chapter 2 Insights

Questions and Answers

What is the one thing of value that Kino owns?

His canoe

Why is this possession so important to him?

Because a man with a canoe can feed and provide for his family. He can guarantee that they will not go hungry.

For what does Juana pray while Kino dives for pearls?

She prays that they will find a pearl in order to pay the doctor to treat Coyotito.

Describe how a pearl is formed.

It is a piece of sand that gets into an oyster. The oyster covers that sand with a smooth coat. The flesh of the oyster continues to coat that foreign body until it falls out or the oyster is destroyed. Signup and view all the answers

List Kino's equipment used when diving for pearls.

He has a rock, basket, two ropes, and a knife. Signup and view all the answers

Which song remains in the back of Kino's mind all the time?

The Song of the Family. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Juana pretend to look away and not be excited about finding the great pearl?

She doesn't want God or the gods to take away their luck. She is very superstitious. She doesn't want anyone to know how much she wants it for fear that they will try to take it away. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the Great Pearl.

Large as a sea gull's egg, perfect as the moon. It captured the light and refined it, making it look silver. Signup and view all the answers

What name is given to the pearl?

The Pearl of the World Signup and view all the answers

How does Kino react to finding the great pearl?

He yells out for all who are near to hear. Signup and view all the answers

What do you think will happen next?

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Study Notes

The Pearl - Chapter 2 Insights

Kino's most valuable possession is his canoe, essential for sustenance and providing for his family.
The canoe ensures Kino can secure food and livelihood, embodying independence and survival for his family.
Juana prays for a pearl to afford medical treatment for their son, Coyotito, highlighting their dire situation.
Pearls form when a grain of sand irritates an oyster, which layers it with a smooth coating, a process that continues until the pearl falls out or the oyster dies.
Kino uses a rock, basket, two ropes, and a knife as his main diving equipment during pearl hunting.
The Song of the Family plays in Kino's mind consistently, symbolizing unity and love for his family.
Juana's superstition leads her to feign disinterest in the pearl's discovery, fearing it might attract misfortune or envy from others.
The Great Pearl is described as magnificent, comparable to a seagull's egg in size and possessing a perfect, moon-like sheen that reflects light beautifully.
The pearl is referred to as the Pearl of the World, signifying its immense value and potential to alter their lives.
Kino's reaction to the discovery of the pearl is exuberant; he calls out loudly, indicating the significance of this moment for him and his family.

Description

Explore the pivotal moments in Chapter 2 of John Steinbeck's 'The Pearl'. This chapter delves into Kino's struggles, the symbolism of the canoe, and Juana's prayers for their son's health. The tensions surrounding the discovery of the pearl set the stage for the unfolding drama in their lives.