The River Between - Key Themes and Characters Quiz

What is the main purpose of proverbs in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices To document historical events To convert the Kikuyu to Christianity To pass down wisdom from one generation to the next To entertain the younger generation

What causes conflict between the Christian groups and the indigenous peoples in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices Female circumcision Language differences Marriage customs Land ownership

What is a key difference between Muthoni and Nyambura in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices Muthoni chooses to be circumcised, while Nyambura obeys her father's command and does not. Muthoni becomes a Christian, while Nyambura follows traditional beliefs. Muthoni leaves her village to join the missionaries, while Nyambura stays with her family. Muthoni falls in love with Waiyaki, while Nyambura remains loyal to her father's wishes.

What is Waiyaki's tragic flaw in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices Greed for power Excessive pride Fear of failure A lack of self-knowledge

What is the significance of the story about women ruling the land in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices It shows that men and women have always shared power equally. It shows that women never had any power in society. It shows that men were always the primary caregivers. It shows that women were once powerful but were overthrown by men.

What is suggested about women's role in Gikuyu society in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices Women are highly respected and hold positions of power. Women are celebrated for their wisdom and leadership skills. Women have very little agency and are under men's authority. Women are seen as equals to men and have significant influence.

What does Waiyaki believe he can achieve despite the complex power relationships in his world?

Question Answer Choices Create a new educational system Build an alliance to challenge colonial rule Unite the tribes under one leader Establish peace with the colonizers

What happens to Muthoni when she makes a decision against her father's will?

Question Answer Choices It ends in pain and death. She is celebrated for her bravery. She is forgiven and welcomed back. She becomes a respected leader.

How does Nyambura's relationship with Waiyaki affect her standing with her family in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices She convinces her family to accept Waiyaki. She gains her father's approval. She becomes the village leader. She is disowned by her family.

What is the primary conflict in The River Between?

Question Answer Choices The rivalry between the locals themselves The struggle between farmers and herders The conflict between Christians and Muslims The battle between neighboring tribes