The Good Earth Study Guide

1. What day is it when the novel opens ?

• First day of harvest
• Wang Lung's wedding day
• First day of winter
• Any other day

2. Is tea an everyday occasion in Wang Lung's household?

• Yes
• Only on special days
• Sometimes
• No

3. What is Wang Lung's father's reaction to Wang Lung's wedding preparations?

• He is angry.
• He is very enthusiastic.
• He is indifferent.
• He apparently disapproves, but secretely approves.

4. How do people react to Wang Lung's hair?

• It is becoming.
• No one notices.
• He is ridiculed.
• He is popular because of it.

5. How does the gateman of the Great House treat Wang Lung?

• Respectfully.
• Well.
• Indifferently.
• Badly.

6. What are Wang Lung's requests concerning the appearance of his wife?

• That she have her feet bound.
• That she not be pockmarked or have a split lip.
• That she be fair.
• That she not be pockmarked or have unbound feet.

7. What is Wang Lung's initial assessment of O-lan?

• She is repulsive.
• She is plain.
• She is interesting.
• She is beautiful.

8. How does Wang Lung's father react to O-lan?

• Is warm and inviting.
• Appears to be nice but is secretely angry with the situation.
• Is hostile.
• Appears not to notice her.

9. What is O-lan's demeanor like?

• She is quiet and slow.
• She is disrespectful.
• She is very talkative.
• She is sullen and angry.

10. When does O-lan tell Wang Lung she is pregnant?

• While preparing dinner.
• In the morning.
• While working in the field with him.
• Before going to the market.