The Things They Carried Final
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Based on Tim O'Brien's statements, how do you tell a true war story?
- 2.
What pact did Strunk and Jensen make?
- A.
If one of them got killed, the other would bury him
- B.
If one of them was severely injured, the other would treat his wounds
- C.
If one of them was captured, the other would report it to his family
- D.
If one of them was injured so madly as to be in a wheelchair, the other would kill him.
Correct Answer
D. If one of them was injured so madly as to be in a wheelchair, the other would kill him.Explanation
Strunk and Jensen made a pact that if one of them was injured to the extent of being in a wheelchair, the other would kill him. This suggests that they had a mutual understanding and agreement that they would not want to live in a state of severe disability or dependence on others. It implies that they valued their independence and quality of life to the extent that they would rather be dead than live in such a condition.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When Mark Fossie brings his girlfriend over to Vietnam, what happens to her?
- A.
She takes one look at the camp and goes back home.
- B.
A sniper in the village kills her.
- C.
She goes out on Ambush with the Green Berets
- D.
Correct Answer
C. She goes out on Ambush with the Green Berets -
- 4.
Who straps a puppy to a claymore device and detonates it
- A.
Azar
- B.
Rat Kiley
- C.
Norman Bowker
- D.
Dave Lemon
Correct Answer
A. AzarExplanation
Azar is the correct answer because he is known for his cruel and sadistic behavior in the Vietnam War. Strapping a puppy to a claymore device and detonating it is a horrific act of violence, and Azar's character is depicted as someone who takes pleasure in causing harm and suffering to others. This action showcases his lack of empathy and disregard for life, making him the most likely candidate for committing such a heinous act.Rate this question:
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- 5.
When Norman arrives home from Vietnam, what does he do all day?
- A.
Red war memoirs
- B.
He pretends to be asleep.
- C.
He cruises around the lake in his truck
- D.
He argues with his father about getting a job.
Correct Answer
C. He cruises around the lake in his truckExplanation
The correct answer is "He cruises around the lake in his truck." This suggests that when Norman arrives home from Vietnam, he spends his time driving around the lake in his truck. This activity could potentially serve as a way for him to relax, reflect, or escape from the challenges and memories of war.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which soldier carried the New Testament?
- A.
Kiowa
- B.
Henry Dobbins
- C.
Dave Jensen
- D.
Ted Lavender
Correct Answer
A. KiowaExplanation
Among the given options, Kiowa is the only soldier who is associated with carrying the New Testament. The question is asking specifically about the soldier who carried the New Testament, and Kiowa is the correct answer because he is the only one mentioned in the options who carried it.Rate this question:
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- 7.
What good luck charm did Martha send to Lieutenant Jimmy Cross?
- A.
A rabbit's foot
- B.
A pebble
- C.
A ring of hers
- D.
A picture of her playing volleyball
Correct Answer
B. A pebbleExplanation
Martha sent Lieutenant Jimmy Cross a pebble as a good luck charm. This implies that Martha wanted to provide him with something small and tangible to bring him luck and protection. A pebble is a simple and natural object, symbolizing strength and stability. It may also suggest a connection to nature and the grounding of emotions during times of stress or danger.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What unusual thing did Norman Bowker carry with him?
- A.
A boy's thumb
- B.
His wife's underwear
- C.
Malaria tablets
- D.
A lot of dope
Correct Answer
A. A boy's thumbExplanation
Norman Bowker carried a boy's thumb with him. This suggests that he was haunted by the memories of the war and possibly experienced traumatic events involving the boy's thumb. Carrying it may have been a way for Bowker to hold onto the past and cope with the guilt or trauma he experienced during his time in the war.Rate this question:
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- 9.
When did the US involvement in the Vietnam War escalate?
- A.
1961
- B.
1965
- C.
1973
- D.
1975
Correct Answer
B. 1965Explanation
The US involvement in the Vietnam War escalated in 1965. This was the year when President Lyndon B. Johnson authorized the deployment of ground combat troops to Vietnam, marking a significant increase in American military presence in the conflict. Prior to 1965, the US had been providing support to the South Vietnamese government, but it was in this year that direct US combat involvement began to intensify, leading to a prolonged and costly war that lasted for several more years.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which group of Vietnamese did the US support?
- A.
North Vietnamese
- B.
South Vietnamese
- C.
Communists
- D.
Vietcong
Correct Answer
B. South VietnameseExplanation
The US supported the South Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. This support was part of the US's larger strategy to contain the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. The South Vietnamese government, led by President Ngo Dinh Diem, was seen as an ally and a bulwark against the communist forces in North Vietnam and the Vietcong guerrillas. The US provided military aid, advisors, and troops to support the South Vietnamese army in their fight against the communist forces. However, despite the US support, the South Vietnamese government eventually fell to the communist forces in 1975.Rate this question:
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- 11.
How does Dave Jensen eventually make peace with Lee Strunk?
- A.
Takes his turn at sentry duty
- B.
Breaks his own nose with a pistol
- C.
Gives back the jackknife
- D.
Saves his life in ambush
Correct Answer
B. Breaks his own nose with a pistolExplanation
Dave Jensen eventually makes peace with Lee Strunk by breaking his own nose with a pistol. This act can be seen as a form of punishment or penance for the earlier incident where Jensen broke Strunk's nose during a fight over a jackknife. By inflicting pain upon himself, Jensen demonstrates remorse and a willingness to take responsibility for his actions. This act of self-harm helps to reconcile their differences and establish a sense of forgiveness and understanding between the two soldiers.Rate this question:
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- 12.
"The Things They Carried" can be considered both:
- A.
A novella and autobiographical incident
- B.
A short story and a ballad
- C.
A memoir and fiction
- D.
A memoir and nonfiction
Correct Answer
C. A memoir and fictionExplanation
"The Things They Carried" can be considered a memoir because it is based on the author Tim O'Brien's personal experiences as a soldier in the Vietnam War. It reflects his own memories and emotions, blurring the line between fact and fiction. However, it is also considered fiction because O'Brien takes artistic liberties with the events and characters, creating a narrative that goes beyond strict factual accuracy. The book combines elements of both genres, presenting a unique blend of personal truth and imaginative storytelling.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The story "The Things They Carried" moves between which two points of view?
- A.
First and second
- B.
Second and third
- C.
First and third
- D.
First and omnicient
Correct Answer
C. First and thirdExplanation
The story "The Things They Carried" moves between the first and third points of view. This means that the narrator alternates between speaking from their own perspective as a character in the story (first person) and from an outside perspective, observing and describing the actions and thoughts of other characters (third person). This shifting of perspectives adds depth and complexity to the narrative, allowing the reader to experience both the personal emotions and experiences of the characters, as well as gaining a broader understanding of the events and themes of the story.Rate this question:
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- 14.
When O'Brien receives his draft notice, what does he do?
- A.
Enlists in the National Guard
- B.
Drives north towards Canada
- C.
Applies for an exemption
- D.
Burns the draft card
Correct Answer
B. Drives north towards CanadaExplanation
The correct answer is "Drives north towards Canada." This suggests that O'Brien, upon receiving his draft notice, chooses to flee to Canada in order to avoid being drafted into the military. This action implies that he is opposed to the war and is willing to go to extreme lengths to avoid participating in it.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What gave away the platoon's position that night in the muddy field?
- A.
A soldier turns on his flashlight.
- B.
The villagers informed the Viet Cong.
- C.
Their guide was a Viet Cong spy
- D.
Azar left his radio on.
Correct Answer
A. A soldier turns on his flashlight.Explanation
The correct answer is "A soldier turns on his flashlight." This action would have given away the platoon's position because the light from the flashlight would have been visible in the dark, muddy field, making them an easy target for the enemy.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Why does Rat Kiley begin to hallucinate prior tp his departure to Japan?
- A.
His best friend Curt Lemon dies.
- B.
He receives no response to a heartfelt letter.
- C.
The platoon goes on night patrol for two weeks.
- D.
He develops an addiction to morphine.
Correct Answer
C. The platoon goes on night patrol for two weeks.Explanation
Rat Kiley begins to hallucinate prior to his departure to Japan because the platoon goes on night patrol for two weeks. The prolonged exposure to the stress, fear, and exhaustion of constant night patrols can lead to sleep deprivation and psychological distress, which can manifest as hallucinations.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following stories illustrates how a grudge is more destructive to the person who is carrying it?
- A.
The prank on Bobby Jorgensen.
- B.
O'Brien's experience on the Rainy River.
- C.
The feud between Lee Strunk and Dave Jensen.
- D.
Norman Bowker circling the lake.
Correct Answer
A. The prank on Bobby Jorgensen.Explanation
The prank on Bobby Jorgensen illustrates how a grudge is more destructive to the person who is carrying it because it shows the negative consequences of holding onto anger and seeking revenge. In the story, the narrator and his friends play a prank on Bobby, which initially seems harmless. However, Bobby becomes consumed by anger and seeks revenge, leading to a series of escalating pranks that ultimately result in tragedy. This demonstrates how holding onto a grudge can lead to a destructive cycle of retaliation and harm not only to others but also to oneself.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What is the defining characteristic of a ‘true’ war story?
- A.
It relies on objectivity.
- B.
It makes the stomach believe.
- C.
A witness tells it.
- D.
Blood and guts realism.
Correct Answer
B. It makes the stomach believe.Explanation
The defining characteristic of a 'true' war story is that it makes the stomach believe. This means that a true war story is able to evoke a strong emotional response and create a sense of authenticity for the reader or listener. It goes beyond just presenting facts or objective details, but rather it captures the visceral and emotional experience of war. The phrase "makes the stomach believe" suggests that a true war story has the power to deeply affect and resonate with the audience, leaving a lasting impact.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What happened to O’Brien’s childhood sweetheart?
- A.
She came to visit him in Vietnam.
- B.
She fell in love with his best friend.
- C.
She died of a brain tumor.
- D.
She moved to another state.
Correct Answer
C. She died of a brain tumor.Explanation
The correct answer is that O'Brien's childhood sweetheart died of a brain tumor. This suggests that their relationship ended tragically due to her illness.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which story symbolizes a rebirth for O’Brien, when he is finally able to let go of the bitterness and pain of the war?
- A.
The practical joke on Jorgensen.
- B.
The remembrance of Linda's death.
- C.
His return to Vietnam and the field.
- D.
His visit ti Kiowa in a long-term care facility.
Correct Answer
C. His return to Vietnam and the field.Explanation
The correct answer is "His return to Vietnam and the field." This symbolizes a rebirth for O'Brien because it represents his ability to confront and face the traumatic experiences of war. By returning to Vietnam and the field, O'Brien is able to let go of the bitterness and pain associated with the war. It signifies a turning point in his healing process and allows him to move forward with his life.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Why is Dobbins angry when Azar mocks the little girl’s dance?
- A.
Azar is supposed to be on guard duty.
- B.
Azar dances inside the sacred Buddhist temple.
- C.
The little girl's family was just killed.
- D.
Dobbins is trying to learn Vietnamese cultural dance.
Correct Answer
C. The little girl's family was just killed.Explanation
Dobbins is angry when Azar mocks the little girl's dance because the little girl's family was just killed. This suggests that Dobbins is sensitive to the girl's situation and finds it inappropriate for Azar to mock her dance considering the tragedy she has just experienced.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Why is O’Brien so upset with Bobby Jorgensen?
- A.
Jorgensen accidentally shoots him.
- B.
Jorgensen forgets to treat him for shock.
- C.
He gets special privileges because his dad is a General.
- D.
Jorgensen steals his jackknife.
Correct Answer
A. Jorgensen accidentally shoots him.Explanation
O'Brien is upset with Bobby Jorgensen because Jorgensen accidentally shoots him.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How does the story about Linda, O’Brien’s nine-year-old girlfriend, relate to the rest of the novel?
- A.
Asking Linda to the dance took a rare form of courage.
- B.
He carried Linda’s letter with him during the war.
- C.
It’s an example of how stories can briefly bring the dead back to life.
- D.
O’Brien writes and asks her to come to Vietnam.
Correct Answer
C. It’s an example of how stories can briefly bring the dead back to life.Explanation
The story about Linda, O'Brien's nine-year-old girlfriend, relates to the rest of the novel by serving as an example of how stories can briefly bring the dead back to life. This theme of storytelling and its power to resurrect the past is a recurring motif in the novel. O'Brien's relationship with Linda represents a connection to his childhood and innocence, and by carrying her letter with him during the war, he keeps her memory alive. This exemplifies how stories have the ability to keep people and their experiences alive, even after they have passed away.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The two settings of the novel are _______________ and _______________.
Correct Answer
Vietnam 1960's and Massachusetts 1980'sExplanation
The correct answer is Vietnam 1960's and Massachusetts 1980's. This suggests that the novel takes place in two different time periods and locations. The setting of Vietnam in the 1960's indicates a historical context, possibly during the Vietnam War, while Massachusetts in the 1980's suggests a more contemporary setting. The two settings may provide contrasting environments and allow for different themes and conflicts to be explored in the novel.Rate this question:
- 25.
Mary Anne Bell is a symbol for...
Correct Answer
She is the symbol for everything good about America.Explanation
Mary Anne Bell is portrayed as a symbol for everything good about America. This means that her character represents the positive qualities and values that are associated with the country. She embodies the ideals of patriotism, bravery, and the American spirit. Through her actions and personality, Mary Anne Bell exemplifies the best aspects of America and serves as a representation of the country's positive attributes.Rate this question:
- 26.
Tim O'Brien is both an antagonist and protagonist in the book.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In the book, Tim O'Brien is both an antagonist and protagonist. As a protagonist, he is the main character and the narrator of the story, sharing his experiences and emotions with the readers. However, he can also be seen as an antagonist because he struggles with internal conflicts and the moral dilemmas of war. He is haunted by guilt, fear, and the trauma of his experiences, which can be seen as obstacles that he must overcome throughout the book. This duality in his character makes him both a central figure and a source of conflict in the story.Rate this question:
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