The Things They Carried Section 4 Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Is the story O'Brien tells one he has shared before?

False

What does O'Brien feel about this story?

Shame

When does this story take place?

Summer 1968

When was O'Brien drafted?

June 17, 1968, a month after graduating from Macalester College Signup and view all the answers

Regarding the war, what did O'Brien do in college?

He took a stand against the war Signup and view all the answers

How does O'Brien see himself?

He sees himself as too good to fight in the war Signup and view all the answers

What did O'Brien spend the summer doing?

Working in an Armour meat-packing plant in his hometown of Worthington, Minnesota Signup and view all the answers

What was his job title?

Declotter Signup and view all the answers

Where does O'Brien consider going to escape the war? How far is this?

Canada, 8 hours north of Worthington, Minnesota Signup and view all the answers

What makes him think he shouldn't go to Canada?

He doesn't want to lose the respect of his family and community Signup and view all the answers

What did Tim's note to his parents say?

Taking off, will call, love Tim Signup and view all the answers

Where does he spend the night?

A closed-down gas station Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the fishing resort he mainly stays at in this section? Where is it located?

Tip Top Lodge; Rainy River on the border of the US and Canada Signup and view all the answers

How does Tim first describe the man who opened the door? What is his name and what is his job?

The hero of my life; Elroy Berdahl is the proprietor, 81 years old, skinny and shrunken and mostly bald Signup and view all the answers

How long did O'Brien spend at the Tip Top Lodge with Elroy?

6 days Signup and view all the answers

How much money did O'Brien have?

$312 Signup and view all the answers

What was in the envelope Elroy gave O'Brien?

4-50s and a note that said 'emergency fund' Signup and view all the answers

What does O'Brien decide about the war?

He will go to the war because he would be embarrassed not to Signup and view all the answers

What does O'Brien do the morning he leaves?

Washes breakfast dishes, leaves the $200 on the kitchen counter, and drives south to head home, then he heads off to war Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

O'Brien's Story and Feelings

The narrative shared is unique to O'Brien and had not been previously disclosed.
O'Brien experiences profound shame regarding his story and the choices he faced.

Context and Background

The events occur in the summer of 1968, during a time of rising tension surrounding the Vietnam War.
O'Brien was drafted on June 17, 1968, shortly after graduating from Macalester College.

Attitude Toward War

In college, O'Brien actively opposed the war, reflecting his strong beliefs.
He perceives himself as undeserving of fighting in the conflict, feeling he is too good for such violence.

Summer Employment

O'Brien worked at an Armour meat-packing plant in Worthington, Minnesota, during the summer.
His job title was Declotter, highlighting his labor-intensive role.

Thoughts of Escape

O'Brien contemplated fleeing to Canada, located eight hours north, to avoid the draft.
He ultimately reasoned against this decision due to fears of losing family and community respect.

Family Communication

O'Brien's brief note to his parents indicated he was leaving, promising to call, signed with love.

Temporary Shelter

He spent a night at a closed gas station, indicating a period of uncertainty and contemplation.

The Tip Top Lodge

The fishing resort, Tip Top Lodge, is situated on the Rainy River, marking the U.S.-Canada border.
O'Brien describes Elroy Berdahl, the 81-year-old proprietor, as the "hero of my life," noting his frail appearance.

Time at the Lodge

O'Brien stayed at Tip Top Lodge for six days, during which he had time for reflection.
He had $312 in cash, establishing his financial situation during this decision-making period.

Emergency Fund

Elroy provided O'Brien an envelope containing $50 bills labeled as an "emergency fund," showcasing his support and understanding.

Decision on War

O'Brien ultimately chose to join the war, driven by the fear of embarrassment and pressure from societal expectations.

Departure Routine

On his morning of departure, O'Brien washed dishes, left $200 on the kitchen counter, and set off towards war, marking the conclusion of his contemplative period.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Section 4 of 'The Things They Carried' by Tim O'Brien. This quiz focuses on the themes and events occurring in 'On the Rainy River,' revealing O'Brien's complex emotions surrounding his draft experience. Challenge yourself and deepen your understanding of this poignant story.