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Heat of the Night Questions Essay

Decent Essays

Novel Study Questions: I n The Heat of the Night by John Ball Chapter 1 1. What descriptive details does the author use to make it clear that the setting of the story is a small town? 2. The character of Sam Wood is developed in several instances in Chapter 1. Discuss and develop his character by referring to: a) his opinion of his job b) the reference to killing the dog c) the Delores Purdy incident d) the conversation with the night worker at the restaurant e) Sam’s ability to cope with a crisis 3. How is the racial issue – a main theme of this book – clearly introduces in Chapter 1? Chapter 2 1. In a well-developed paragraph, describe the character of Chief Gillespie as he is …show more content…

What is the reader’s impression of Ralph’s testimony? 2. What is the significance of Gottschalk’s parting remark: “That’s a relief; I wish all cops were like you. And if I may say so without offense, I’m glad that democracy has hit the South in something besides the political sense.” 3. How is the blundering bully, Gillespie, once again made to ‘look the fool’ by Virgil? 4. What is the structure that the author uses to set up each chapter? Chapter 8 1. What is the significance of Reverend Whiteburn’s statement “As long as I have been in this community, this is the first time that I have ever been consulted by the police. I take it as an honor.” 2. Virgil comes to the Reverend for help in his investigation. a) What two things are Tibbs interested in discovering? b) Summarize additional plot information given to the reader by means of Virgil’s interview with the Rev. 3. Explain why the following statements are significant: “To the Best of my Knowledge, no one has suggested that the murderer is necessarily a Negro.” “That is in itself a small miracle.” 4. Using references to specific characters and speeches, show how the Council Members or Wells are guilty of prejudice and bigotry. 5. Explain the significance of the exchange between Sam and Virgil about ‘the heat of the night’. 6. Summarize in point form the racial issues as seen in the discussion of Virgil and Sam as they drive

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