Question

1. What inference can you make about why the narrator helps Doodle learn to walk?

A) Doodle is sad about not being able to walk.

B) The narrator wants Doodle to have a full life.

C) Doodle's disability embarrasses the narrator.

D) The narrator hopes to build Doodle's strength.

2. The scarlet ibis is a symbol for

A) death.

B) Doodle.

C) the narrator.

D) strength.

3. What in the story indicates the point of view of the narrator?

A) The use of "he" indicates that the narrator is not part of the action.

B) The use of "we" and "I" indicates that the narrator is part of the action.

C) No names are used, so there is no evidence of the narrator’s identity.

D) The tone indicates that the narrator is someone who is detached from the people involved.

4. Doodle's father has a coffin built early in the story. What does the coffin symbolize?

A) The father and mother's love for both Doodle and the narrator.

B) The likelihood that Doodle will not live for a very long time.

C) The narrator's embarrassment because Doodle is his brother.

D) Doodle's ability to rise above his difficulties with some help.

5. What is one theme of "The Scarlet Ibis"?

A) Memories remain clear even with the passing of time.

B) Pride can cause people to be cruel even to those they love.

C) The world of nature is fragile and must be protected.

D) Close friendships are rare among family members.

6. At first, the narrator takes Doodle everywhere because

A) their parents cannot care for Doodle.

B) he can carry Doodle easily.

C) their mother tells him to do it.

D) he enjoys being with Doodle.

7. What inference can you make about why the narrator thinks it is important for Doodle to walk?

A) He hopes that Doodle will depend on him less.

B) He believes that Doodle deserves a normal life.

C) He is embarrassed by Doodle's disability.

D) He wants Doodle to do more things with him.

8. After Doodle rows the boat back to Horsehead Landing, he falls. What inference can you make about why this upsets the narrator?

A) He is frustrated that Doodle has failed a test of strength.

B) He knows that Doodle is not trying as hard as possible.

C) The fall means that Doodle might be getting sick again.

D) He must spend time cleaning the swamp mud from Doodle.

9. How is Doodle's birth name, William Armstrong, an element of foreshadowing in the story?

10. What is the significance of the Red Scarlet Ibis in the story?

Answer 1

The analysis of "The Scarlet Ibis" delves into motivations, symbolism, narrator's perspective, and themes, such as the complex nature of pride in familial bonds and the foreboding presence of the scarlet ibis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The analysis of James Hurst's short story "The Scarlet Ibis" involves several elements, including inferences about the narrator's motivations, symbolism, point of view, and themes. The narrator helps Doodle learn to walk possibly due to a mix of pride and familial love, which may answer several questions posed. The scarlet ibis itself is a powerful symbol within the story, representing Doodle and foretelling his fate. The point of view is indicated by the use of first-person pronouns such as "I" and "we," which signifies the narrator's personal involvement in the events described. Doodle's coffin, made early in the story, symbolizes the anticipation of his potential death and the frailty of his life. One central theme of the narrative is that pride can be destructive, often pushing people to act in ways that can harm those they care about.

In answering specific questions about the story, details such as the narrator's motives for teaching Doodle to walk, his reactions to Doodle's actions, and the significance of symbols like Doodle's birth name and the scarlet ibis are critical. Furthermore, understanding the underlying themes and character motivations can provide a deeper comprehension of the text's messages about human nature and the complexities of familial relationships.