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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate4 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'The Midnight Visitor' revolves around Ausable, a secret agent who does not fit the stereotypical image of a spy. Instead of the glamorous life associated with espionage, Ausable is characterized by his clumsiness and unremarkable appearance. However, he uses his wit to outsmart Max, a rival agent who mistakenly believes there is a balcony outside the window. Ausable fabricates a story about the balcony, which leads Max to flee through the window, revealing there was no balcony all along. This highlights the theme of quick thinking and deceptive appearances.
Key Topics
- •Deceptive appearances
- •Quick thinking
- •Espionage
- •Stereotypes of secret agents
- •Presence of mind
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the importance of quick thinking in high-pressure situations.
- ✓Analyze character traits that defy stereotypes.
- ✓Discuss how setting influences the ambiance of the story.
- ✓Identify key themes related to espionage and deception.
- ✓Evaluate the impact of wit over physical strength in conflicts.
Questions in Chapter
How is Ausable different from other secret agents?
Page 3
Who is Fowler and what is his first authentic thrill of the day?
Page 3
How has Max got in?
Page 15
How does Ausable say he got in?
Page 15
What do secret agents in books and films look like, in your opinion? Discuss in groups or in class some stories or movies featuring spies, detectives and secret agents, and compare their appearance with that of Ausable in this story.
Page 19
How does Ausable manage to make Max believe that there is a balcony attached to his room?
Page 19
When do you think Ausable thought up his plan for getting rid of Max?
Page 19
Additional Practice Questions
Why does Ausable's appearance contribute to the story's unexpected turn of events?
mediumAnswer: Ausable's appearance is misleading as it does not fit the typical mold of a secret agent. This unexpected feature plays to his advantage, causing Max to underestimate him, which ultimately leads to Max's downfall.
Discuss the role of deception in 'The Midnight Visitor.'
hardAnswer: Deception is central to the story. Ausable tricks Max into believing there is a balcony, illustrating how deceptive appearances and words can alter outcomes.
Explain how Ausable exhibits 'presence of mind' in dealing with Max.
mediumAnswer: Ausable exhibits presence of mind by quickly concocting a story about the police and a non-existent balcony to manipulate Max into a dangerous decision, showcasing his quick thinking skills.
How does the setting of the story contribute to its suspense?
mediumAnswer: The setting, a dimly-lit room in a gloomy hotel, creates an atmosphere of mystery and suspense, enhancing the tension as the story unfolds with Max's unexpected entrance.
Reflect on a situation where quick thinking could have been beneficial. How would you handle it differently now?
easyAnswer: Personal response required - Reflect on an event where quick decision-making might have changed the outcome. For instance, responding promptly in an emergency could prevent escalation.