A Son of the Gods

Question 1

Title and Author

Answer 1

„A son of the gods“ by Ambrose Bierce

Question 2

Setting

Answer 2

The Story is set during the American Civil War

Question 3

Main Character

Answer 3

The protagonist is an unnamed Union officer, often referred to as „the son of the gods“

Question 4

Initial Situation

Answer 4

A union regiment is preparing for a potential battle, with soldiers anxious and tense

Question 5

Key Event - Scout‘s Mission

Answer 5

The Union officer is tasked with a dangerous mission to scout the enemy position

Question 6

Act of Bravery

Answer 6

Displaying remarkable bravery, the officer rides alone across open ground under enemy fire to gather intelligence

Question 7

Enemy reaction

Answer 7

The Confederate soldiers are initially stunned by the officer‘s audacity, hesitating to shoot

Question 8

Outcome of the Mission

Answer 8

The officer completes his reconnaissance successfully, providing crucial information to his regiment

Question 9

Theme - Courage

Answer 9

The story highlights the theme of individual courage and heroism amidst the chaos of war

Question 10

Symbolism

Answer 10

The officer‘s bold ride symbolizes the idea of a heroic, almost divine figure facing mortal peril with calm and confidence

Question 11

Author‘s perspective on war

Answer 11

Bierce, a civil war veteran, portrays war with a mix of admiration for bravery and a clear recognition of its inherent dangers and futility