Theme: The Natural World Flashcards
What is a major theme in Into Thin Air regarding the natural world?
The natural world, particularly Mount Everest, is depicted as a character with beauty, danger, and unpredictability.
The theme emphasizes the sublime beauty of mountains and the inherent danger of climbing them.
What do climbers believe they can use to conquer Everest?
Training, technology, and intelligence.
This belief is challenged by the 1996 Everest disaster, highlighting nature’s power.
How does Krakauer describe the beauty of Mount Everest?
With long, vivid descriptions that convey its stunning vistas and intimidating height.
The beauty is emphasized, but it is coupled with the understanding of the mountain’s volatility.
What kind of character is Mount Everest described as?
A static character that does not change over time.
Despite advancements in climbing techniques, Everest remains dangerous and beautiful.
What happens when human characters focus too much on Everest’s beauty?
They underestimate its unpredictability and danger.
This leads to tragic consequences, particularly for Rob Hall and his clients.
What was Rob Hall’s mistake during the expedition?
He underestimated the threat of an impending storm.
His previous luck with weather influenced his judgment.
What belief do the Sherpas have about tourist climbers?
They believe that tourists have ‘angered’ the goddess of Mount Everest.
This reflects a cultural respect for the mountain, contrasting with tourists’ views.
What does Into Thin Air remind us about the natural world?
It is too big and complex to be treated flippantly.
The narrative emphasizes the need for respect towards nature.
Fill in the blank: Mount Everest is capable of moving from calm to _______ in just a few hours.
stormy.
This highlights Everest’s volatile nature.
True or False: Mount Everest has changed significantly in its danger and beauty over the last 150 years.
False.
Everest remains fundamentally the same despite advancements in climbing.
