Question

What does John decide at the end of the story? By the Waters of Babylon Study Guide by Stephen Vincent Benét


A. To hide the truth forever

B. To go live in the city

C. To rebuild the knowledge of the gods slowly

D. To become chief of all tribes


What is the tone when John describes the “ash and bones” of the city?

A. Joyful

B. Peaceful

C. Somber

D. Excited


Which literary device is used when John calls the people of the city “gods”?

A. Metaphor

B. Personification

C. Foreshadowing

D. Irony


Which theme is MOST strongly developed in the story?

A. The danger of animals

B. The importance of tradition

C. Knowledge can be both powerful and dangerous

D. The value of hunting

Answer 1

1. C — To rebuild the knowledge of the gods slowly.
John decides to teach his people gradually, revealing what he learned only when they are ready.

2. C — Somber.
His description of "ash and bones" is mournful and reflective, not joyful or excited.

3. A — Metaphor.
Calling the city's people "gods" is a metaphor—John uses a figure of speech to convey how powerful and advanced they seemed.

4. C — Knowledge can be both powerful and dangerous.