The Pearl - Sample Answer

SPM 2004 – Choose an event in the novel you have studied which you find to be most memorable. Give reasons for your choice and, with close reference to the text, discuss the event

An event that I find most memorable in The Pearl by John Steinbeck is when Coyotito is stung by a scorpion in the first chapter of the novel. Kino and Juana have just finished having their breakfast of corn cakes and pulque when they see a scorpion moving down the rope that supports Coyotito’s sleeping box. They freeze so as not to startle the scorpion. Kino moves stealthily towards the box while Juana whispers Hail Mary and ancient magic.

As Kino approaches the box, Coyotito laughs and shakes the rope. The scorpion falls, lands on his shoulder and stings him. I like this event as it shows Juana’s nature and instinct of a mother. She bravely sucks out the poison even though she might swallow it and make her sick instead.

She asks for the doctor but is told that the doctor will not come to their house. When she hears this she says “Then we will go to him”. This shows that she is a quick-thinking person and a determined mother too. All this while Kino is shown as ‘hovering’ and does not know what to do.

This event is also memorable as it sets the story and the chain of events that follow. The finding of the pearl that leads to Kino’s misery happens because of this event.