The Things They Carried: Speaking of Courage

Questions and Answers

Where does Norman Bowker return to after the war?

Iowa

Who does Bowker reminisce about?

His high school girlfriend, Sally Kramer, and his friend Max Arnold who drowned in the lake.

What was Bowker's father's greatest hope?

That Norman would bring home medals from Vietnam.

How many medals did Norman win in Vietnam and what did they include?

7 medals, including the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart. Signup and view all the answers

What did Norman almost win before he blew his chance?

The Silver Star. Signup and view all the answers

What did the men notice when they set up camp?

A fish-like smell; they set up camp in a sewage field. Signup and view all the answers

What happened to Kiowa?

He sunk into the muck. Bowker tried to save him but ended up letting him go. Signup and view all the answers

What does Bowker imagine on his 11th trip around the lake?

He imagines telling his father the story and admitting that he did not act with courage. Signup and view all the answers

What does Bowker do after he parks his car?

He wades in the water with his clothes on, submerging himself and watches the holiday fireworks. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Norman Bowker's Return

Bowker returns to Iowa following his service in Vietnam, struggling to reintegrate into civilian life.

Reminiscences and Relationships

He reminisces about his high school girlfriend, Sally Kramer, who is now married, and his friend Max Arnold, who tragically drowned.

Parental Expectations

Bowker's father had high hopes for him, desiring that Norman would return with medals from the war, which he ultimately achieves.

Military Achievements

Norman earned seven medals including notable awards such as the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart.

Lost Opportunity

He nearly earned the Silver Star but missed the chance due to circumstances during the war.

Camp Setting Observations

The soldiers noticed a fish-like smell when setting up camp, which led to the conclusion that they were in a sewage field.

Kiowa's Fate

Kiowa, a fellow soldier, sank into the muck during an incident. Bowker attempted to rescue him but released him to save himself from succumbing to the sludge.

Inner Conflicts

While walking around a lake, Bowker fantasizes about confessing to his father that he did not demonstrate the courage expected of him. He hopes his father would find solace in the seven medals he obtained.

Reflective Actions

After parking his car, Bowker enters the water fully clothed, immersing himself before standing up, crossing his arms, and observing the fireworks, symbolizing his ongoing struggle with the past.

Description

Explore Section 15 of 'The Things They Carried' where Norman Bowker grapples with his experiences after the Vietnam War. This quiz focuses on his reflections, relationships, and the weight of expectations upon his return to Iowa. Test your knowledge of the key themes and characters in this poignant section.