The God of Small Things Study Guide

1. What town is the primary setting for the novel?

• Cochin.
• New Delhi.
• Ayemenem.
• Kottayam.

2. What is Kerala?

• A state in Southern India.
• The God of Small Things.
• A traditional South Indian form of dance.
• The name of Estha's twin sister.

3. What is notable about Roy's diction in the novel's opening?

• It is overtly sensuous.
• It is incorrect grammatically.
• It makes words shorter than they need be.
• It is subtly religious.

4. What is our first impression of the natural world in the novel?

• It is completely absent.
• It is sexual and rebellious.
• It is quiet and fades away.
• It is effectively hemmed in by society.

5. What kind of twins are Estha and Rahel?

• Identical.
• Fraternal.
• Spiritual.
• Siamese.

6. What is unique about Rahel's and Estha's relationship as children?

• They are separated until the age of seven.
• They ally with one another against Baby Kochamma.
• Rahel can read into Estha's thoughts and experiences.
• Rahel is the favorite child, while Estha is shunned.

7. What incident serves as the focal point for the rest of the story?

• Sophie Mol's death.
• Estha's leaving Ayemenem.
• Rahel's return to Ayemenem.
• Chacko's divorce.

8. How many years have elapsed since Rahel and Estha last saw each other?

• Thirty-one.
• None.
• Seven.
• Twenty-three.

9. What is unique about the ceiling of the cathedral where Sophie's funeral is held?

• It is covered with baby bats.
• It is treacherous.
• It is painted in detail to look like a clear sky.
• It is a replication of the Sistine Chapel.

10. According to Rahel, what is special about Sophie Mol at her funeral?

• Her body is bloated from being drowned.
• She is still alive.
• She looks English instead of Indian.
• She is wearing Rahel's best holiday clothes.