Chapters One-Three

The Wolves of W. C./Assignment One Name:____________ Class__

Answer three of the following questions on a piece or two of binder paper. Don't forget to use an MLA heading, write in ink, double space, and proofread.


1. The first paragraph of the first chapter is a bit like the beginning of a movie. We approach the great house (Willoughby Chase) from the enormous grounds. We first see a crowd of workers. It is twilight and a heavy snow has fallen. Hundreds of men are at work shoveling and clearing the snow. The men huddle in groups "for fear of the wolves, grown savage and reckless with hunger."

Why does this introduction seem suspenseful? What kind of book are you now expecting and why?



2. Early in the first chapter Bonnie says, "I hope the train hasn't been delayed by wolves." Pattern then tries to reassure her that the porters and station masters are ready to deal with the wolves.

It is interesting that this fear of wolves is mentioned twice quite early in the first chapter. At this point in the book do you think the wolves will be frightening? What else might there be to fear?



3. In class we discussed a quote from the first chapter. "Prying wretch! Who gave you permission to meddle with my letters?" Miss Slighcarp cried.

Recall that Miss Slighcarp has just struck Pattern in the face with a blunt object. Why do you think Miss Slighcarp is violently upset at having her letters disturbed?



4. Toward the end of chapter two Sylvia gets drowsy on the train. Sylvia "dreamed, without being really asleep, of arctic seas, of monstrous tunnels through hillsides fringed with icicles. Her traveling companion, who had grown a long tail and a pair of horns, offered her cakes the size of grand pianos and colored scarlet, blue, and green; when she bit into them she found they were made of snow."

Do you think Sylvia's fears are irrational? Why is she afraid of the stranger and his offers of sweeties? Do you think that her dream is a warning?



5. At the end of chapter three Bonnie meets Sylvia's train and efficiently takes charge of the injured Mr. Grimshaw. We learn a bit more about Bonnie through this incident. Describe Bonnie's personality. You can compare her to Sylvia, if you want to contrast the two characters.