Study Questions &
Essay Topics
Study Questions
1. What do we
learn about the pearl's symbolism from the reactions it evokes?
2. Discuss Steinbeck's
use of foreshadowing in The Pearl.
3. One important
element of The Pearl is the contrast between fate and human agency,
between the destiny that is made for us and the destiny that we
make ourselves. How do these forces interact in Kino's story? To
what extent is Kino responsible for his own demise? To what extent
is fate responsible?
Suggested Essay Topics
1. How does the novella's conclusion
complete Steinbeck's moral argument? Could the novella have ended
in any other way? Is it wise of Kino to throw the pearl back into
the sea, or should he have searched for another option?
2. What role does family play
in The Pearl? How does the loyalty of Kino's family
members (especially Juana and Juan Tomás) affect his actions? Was
Juan Tomás correct to shield Kino from the law after he had committed
murder? Is Juana correct to be so submissive to him? Does either
character have a choice?
3. Some critics read The
Pearl as a very specific critique of the American dream
of wealth and success. Is this reading plausible, or does it limit
it unnecessarily? If the story is about the American dream, why
is it set in a colonial Mexican society?
