The Most Dangerous Game

Question

by Richard Connell

“Off there to the right—somewhere—is a large island,” said Whitney. “It’s rather a mystery——”

“What island is it?” Rainsford asked.

“The old charts call it ‘Ship-Trap Island,’“ Whitney replied. “A suggestive name, isn’t it? Sailors have a curious dread of the place. I don’t know why. Some superstition——”

“Can’t see it,” remarked Rainsford, trying to peer through the dank tropical night that was palpable as it pressed its thick warm blackness in upon the yacht.

“You’ve good eyes,” said Whitney, with a laugh, “and I’ve seen you pick off a moose moving in the brown fall bush at four hundred yards, but even you can’t see four miles or so through a moonless Caribbean night.”

“Nor four yards,” admitted Rainsford. “Ugh! It’s like moist black velvet.”

“It will be light enough in Rio,” promised Whitney. “We should make it in a few days.

"The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell

Question
Use the passage to answer the question.

In 1–2 paragraphs, analyze how the author uses figurative language to reveal elements of the story’s cultural setting.

(4 points)

Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

3
The answer is mostly clear.

The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.

There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

2
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is not clear.

There are few or no supporting details.

There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0 The question is not answered.
Skip to navigation

Answer 1

In Richard Connell's "The Most Dangerous Game," the author employs figurative language to evoke a sense of mystery and foreboding associated with Ship-Trap Island. The description of the night as "palpable" and "thick warm blackness" creates a vivid sensory experience, allowing readers to feel the oppressive atmosphere surrounding the island. Such imagery emphasizes not only the physical setting but also the psychological tension that permeates the story. The use of the metaphor “moist black velvet” enhances this effect, suggesting that the darkness is both luxurious and suffocating, which heightens the sense of danger and uncertainty that comes with approaching the island.

Additionally, Whitney’s mention that sailors have a “curious dread” of Ship-Trap Island further contributes to the island’s ominous cultural context. This dread is rooted in superstition, suggesting that the location is steeped in folklore and an air of the unknown. The combination of sensory imagery and hints of superstition creates a rich backdrop that reflects the story's themes of survival and the primal instincts that emerge in dangerous situations. Ultimately, Connell's use of figurative language not only sets the stage for the action to unfold but also mirrors the characters' internal conflicts and fears as they confront the threats of the island.