Summary Chapter 9 Flashcards
What time does Krakauer wake up on April 26?
4 am
What is the purpose of Krakauer’s climb on April 26?
Final acclimatization climb from Camp Two to Camp Three
What happens to Krakauer during the climb?
Begins to lose feeling in his feet and fingers
Who gives the order to turn back to Camp Two?
Hall
What triggers the decision to return to Camp Two?
A dangerous storm
What condition does Krakauer find his toes and fingers in after returning?
Stiff, but not seriously frostbitten
What serious condition does Doug Hansen face?
Serious damage to his toes and inflamed larynx
What does Hansen worry about regarding the expedition?
He may be unable to continue
What is the nature of the relationship between Krakauer and Hansen?
They have become close friends
What is the atmosphere like between Rob Hall and the South African team?
A lot of ill will
What rumor circulates among the Sherpas regarding Ngawang Topchke’s death?
It was caused by climbers having sex, angering Sagarmatha
What do the Sherpas build to appease Sagarmatha?
Small stone altars
What is a common behavior among Sherpas despite their beliefs?
Extramarital sex in secret
Who are the four especially gifted climbers mentioned?
- Ed Viesturs
- Anatoli Boukreev
- Ang Babu
- Lopsang Jangbu
What notable achievement does Lopsang Jangbu have?
Reached the peak of Everest without supplemental oxygen
What is Lopsang’s opinion of Scott Fischer?
He admires him and believes Fischer has big plans for him
What impact does the weather have on Doug Hansen?
He may be unable to proceed with the expedition
What is Hall’s attitude towards a sick client proceeding with the summit climb?
He is cautious and unlikely to accept it
What does Krakauer imply about the Sherpas’ beliefs?
He does not believe in them on a literal level
How can ‘Into Thin Air’ be interpreted in relation to nature?
As a cautionary tale about the power of nature
What does Krakauer initially believe about the likelihood of casualties in the expeditions?
Highly unlikely due to the presence of excellent mountaineers
What emotional toll does Lopsang’s loyalty to Scott Fischer have?
Causes him tremendous grief and guilt
