Gregor and the Curse of the Warmbloods
Chapter 17
by Suzanne, Collins,The chapter begins with Lapblood and Gregor being attacked by carnivorous plants in the jungle. Lapblood attempts to free Mange from a pod but is ensnared by vines, triggering a violent reaction from the surrounding flora. Gregor, unable to summon his rager abilities, is also captured and nearly suffocated by a tightening vine. As he is dragged toward a pod’s slimy interior, his bubble gum accidentally lands inside, causing a chemical reaction that loosens the vine’s grip. Lapblood follows his lead, spitting her gum into another pod, temporarily disabling both plants.
Despite their quick thinking, the group remains in grave danger as more pods turn toward them. Gregor and Lapblood scream for help, and Nike arrives, valiantly fighting the plants but is soon overwhelmed. Just as hope seems lost, Ripred appears, shredding the vines with his spinning attack and saving them. Hamnet arrives shortly after, rushing Gregor and the others back to camp for treatment. Gregor’s boots are damaged by the pod’s acidic ooze, and Nike suffers a broken claw bone, highlighting the severity of their ordeal.
Ripred’s fury erupts as he confronts the group for their recklessness, blaming them for nearly getting everyone killed. He reveals that Mange is dead, and Lapblood, in grief, tries to return to the plants until Ripred forcibly restrains her. Hamnet intervenes, tending to their injuries while Ripred continues to berate them for ignoring warnings about the jungle’s dangers. The tension underscores the group’s precarious situation and the consequences of their impulsive actions.
The chapter ends on a dire note as Hazard accidentally empties the last water bag, leaving the group without a vital resource. Hamnet’s reaction reveals the gravity of their predicament, as water is essential for survival in the harsh environment. The loss amplifies the stakes, leaving the characters—and readers—aware of how quickly their fortunes can turn in the Underland. The chapter emphasizes themes of survival, consequences, and the fragile balance between life and death in their quest.
FAQs
1. How does Gregor attempt to free himself and Lapblood from the carnivorous plants, and why is this method effective?
Answer:
Gregor realizes that his bubble gum, when mixed with the clear ooze inside the plant pods, creates a bubbly pink reaction that temporarily incapacitates the plants. He shouts for Lapblood to spit her gum into her pod, which produces the same effect. This works because the chemical reaction between the gum and the plant’s digestive fluid disrupts the plant’s normal functioning, causing it to froth and churn instead of digesting its prey. While this doesn’t fully free them, it buys them critical time by rendering some pods “temporarily out of order.”2. Analyze Ripred’s reaction to the group’s near-death experience. What does his outburst reveal about his character and priorities?
Answer:
Ripred’s furious tirade reveals his deep investment in the mission’s success and his frustration with the group’s recklessness. His insults and muttering show both his abrasive personality and his genuine concern—he emphasizes that their actions endangered not just themselves but the entire mission (“good-bye cure, good-bye Underland”). This outburst highlights his role as a pragmatic leader who values discipline and survival, contrasting with the others’ impulsiveness. His anger stems from fear of failure, showing that beneath his tough exterior, he cares deeply about their collective goal.3. What role does Nike play in the conflict with the plants, and how does her actions reflect her character traits?
Answer:
Nike bravely attempts to rescue Gregor and Lapblood by attacking the plants with her claws, despite being weighed down by water bags. Her actions reflect her loyalty and courage, as she risks herself to save others. However, her efforts are ultimately overwhelmed by the plants’ numbers. Hamnet later notes her injury—a snapped bone in her claw—which she dismisses, further underscoring her selflessness and resilience. Nike’s determination, even in the face of failure, aligns with her role as a devoted ally.4. How does the chapter illustrate the theme of unintended consequences? Provide specific examples.
Answer:
The chapter shows how small actions spiral into life-threatening situations. Mange’s innocent search for food leads the group into the deadly plants, and Gregor’s accidental loss of his gum (from coughing) ironically becomes their salvation. Similarly, Nike’s rescue attempt results in the loss of their water bags, exacerbating their survival crisis. Even Hamnet’s instruction to Hazard inadvertently wastes their last water. These examples emphasize how quickly decisions can escalate in the Underland’s perilous environment.5. Evaluate Hamnet’s leadership during the crisis. How does he balance immediate survival needs with long-term concerns?
Answer:
Hamnet prioritizes triage—treating injuries (Gregor’s toes, Nike’s leg, Lapblood’s eye) and assessing resources—but his actions reveal the tension between short-term and long-term survival. He focuses on immediate medical care but is visibly shaken by the water shortage, their most critical resource. His gentle handling of Hazard (“No, you did what I asked”) contrasts with Ripred’s rage, showing a compassionate but pragmatic approach. However, his inability to prevent resource depletion hints at the larger challenges ahead, where medical skill may not suffice without supplies.
Quotes
1. “Where was his rager reaction? He scanned his body for any sign that he was transforming into a deadly adversary but nothing was happening. No shift in his vision, no rush in his blood. All he felt was extreme fear.”
This quote captures Gregor’s vulnerability and desperation as he faces mortal danger without his usual “rager” abilities. It highlights a key moment of powerlessness in the chapter, contrasting with his typical heroic capabilities.
2. “Gregor was aware of being drawn forward. The plant was pulling him toward one of the gaping yellow mouths. He thrashed helplessly, feeling his strength waning. I couldn’t breathe. … The vine was so tight. …”
This visceral description of Gregor’s near-death experience represents the chapter’s intense action sequence and the constant danger of the Underland. The ellipses effectively convey his suffocating panic.
3. “‘Spit your bubble gum in it, Lapblood!’ Gregor yelled.”
This short but crucial quote represents the turning point where Gregor discovers the plants’ weakness. It’s significant as it shows quick thinking in a life-or-death situation and demonstrates cooperation between species.
4. “‘He’s dead! I killed the plant that did it! The pod opened and what was left of his carcass fell out! Believe me, he’s dead! And the rest of you should be as well!’ shouted Ripred.”
Ripred’s furious outburst reveals the high stakes of their mission and the consequences of disobedience. This quote showcases Ripred’s complex character - his anger masking genuine concern for the group’s survival.
5. “‘It is just … the water. This was our last bag.’”
Hamnet’s quiet statement serves as a powerful cliffhanger ending, emphasizing the dire consequences of the characters’ actions. It shifts the narrative tension from immediate danger to long-term survival concerns.