Introduction to Individuality and Conformity: "Initiation"

Question 1

Decide whether each quotation is an example of direct or indirect characterization. “How horrible it would be . . . if she were condemned to be the plain, shy Millicent of a few years back.” “Betsy Johnson, the vivacious blonde secretary of the sorority” “Walking beside Louise on the way to the drugstore, Millicent felt a surge of pride.” “Bev was suddenly there in the doorway. ‘Wipe that smile off your face,’ she commanded.”

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: direct

Question 2

Based on the passage, what inferences can be made about the characters? Check all that apply.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: Bev is attracted to Herb.; B: Bev is a jealous person who dislikes female competition.; D: Herb thinks that Millicent is attractive.

Question 3

Identify each type of conflict from the story. Bev forces Millicent to interview everyone on the bus about breakfast. Millicent is troubled by the idea of leaving Tracy behind. Millicent decides to reject the sorority after successfully passing the initiation. Millicent knows that it will be a personal challenge to tell the others what she decided.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: character vs. character

Question 4

Which is the best conclusion that can be drawn about Millicent based on the conflict in the passage?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: Millicent would rather do a difficult thing she believes is right than the easy thing.

Question 5

Read this passage. In your own words, explain how the central conflict leads Millicent to change.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

The central conflict in 'Initiation' arises from Millicent's desire to belong to an exclusive social group versus her need to maintain her own identity. Through the hazing process, she experiences the pressure to conform and the superficiality of the sorority girls, whom she begins to see as 'sparrows'—all looking and acting the same. This conflict leads to her transformation when she realizes she would rather be like the 'heather birds,' who are wild, free, and unique. Ultimately, the conflict forces Millicent to value her individuality over social acceptance, leading her to decide not to join the sorority.

Question 6

Question 6

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: direct

Question 7

Question 7

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: character vs. self

Question 8

Question 8

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: indirect

Question 9

Question 9

Revolt · Accepted Answer

C: character vs. society

Question 10

Question 10

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: indirect

Introduction to Individuality and Conformity: "Initiation" Answers

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