Gregor and the Curse of the Warmbloods
Chapter 21
by Suzanne, Collins,The chapter begins with Gregor and his companions struggling through a dense jungle, following a narrow path worn by mice. The thick vines make progress difficult, forcing them to separate the foliage by hand. To prevent anyone from getting lost, Hamnet assigns each member a number, and they periodically sound off. Boots enthusiastically participates, while Temp, the cockroach, struggles with the concept. Gregor remains vigilant, ensuring Temp and Boots stay close. The group’s dynamic is lightened by Boots’ playful attempts to help Temp remember his number, showcasing their camaraderie amidst the challenging environment.
As the journey continues, Gregor and Luxa reconnect, discussing recent events. Luxa inquires about Hazard, Hamnet’s son, who is revealed to be her cousin. Gregor explains Hazard’s Overlander heritage, which puzzles Luxa due to his green eyes. Their conversation shifts to Nerissa, the current queen, and Luxa expresses pride in her despite others’ dismissive attitudes. Gregor recounts his decision to spare the Bane and Nerissa’s role in deciphering the prophecy, which saved his life. He then shares updates about the plague and their quest for a cure, prompting Luxa to recount her own harrowing escape from the sea serpents and the rats, which led her to the jungle.
The group eventually emerges from the jungle into the Vineyard of Eyes, a stunning yet ominous valley filled with vibrant blossoms and a sweet scent. Despite its beauty, the Vineyard is revealed to be a deadly trap, with the path itself designed to lure travelers. Ripred reassures Gregor that survival is possible, citing historical records. Hamnet advises strict precautions: staying close, avoiding contact with plants, and never leaving the path. Gregor warns Boots using a fairy tale analogy, though her curiosity remains undimmed. The group proceeds cautiously, with Frill and Hamnet leading the way, while the eerie silence of the Vineyard heightens the tension.
As they walk, Gregor notices blinking eyes among the vines, realizing the Vineyard is alive and watching them. The chapter ends on a suspenseful note, emphasizing the danger lurking beneath the valley’s beauty. The group’s unity and determination are tested as they navigate this treacherous environment, with Gregor acutely aware of the threat to Boots. The Vineyard’s unnatural quiet and the presence of unseen observers create an atmosphere of dread, setting the stage for the challenges ahead.
FAQs
1. How does the author use contrasting imagery to create tension in the Vineyard of Eyes scene?
Answer:
The author initially describes the Vineyard of Eyes with beautiful, inviting imagery—”slender and graceful vines,” “delicate blossoms of every shade,” and a “light, sweet scent.” This creates a false sense of safety, mirroring Gregor’s initial awe. However, the tone shifts when Ripred reveals the path is a trap, and Gregor realizes the plants are predatory. The juxtaposition of beauty (“magnificent garden”) with danger (“synonymous with danger”) heightens tension, emphasizing the jungle’s deceptive nature. The eerie silence (“drank in their sounds”) further underscores the threat, transforming the scene from tranquil to sinister.
2. Analyze how the numbering system during the jungle trek reflects the characters’ personalities and relationships.
Answer:
The numbering system (1-11) highlights key traits: Boots enthusiastically shouts “Nine!” showing her childlike joy and eagerness to participate. Temp’s struggle with remembering “ten” reflects cockroaches’ canonical difficulty with math, while Boots’ patient coaching (“Temp, say ‘Ten!’”) demonstrates her nurturing side. Gregor’s concern about Temp’s potential embarrassment reveals his empathy. Meanwhile, Hamnet’s organizational method underscores his leadership role. This small interaction reinforces the group’s dynamics—Hamnet’s structure, Boots’ innocence, Temp’s limitations, and Gregor’s protective nature.
3. What does Luxa’s reaction to Hazard reveal about Underland’s societal prejudices?
Answer:
Luxa’s immediate focus on Hazard’s green eyes (“How is that possible?”) exposes the Underland’s deep-seated bias against physical differences, particularly those tied to Overlanders. Her conflicted feelings about cousins—referencing past strife—also hint at political tensions within royal lineages. However, Gregor’s reassurance (“He’ll be a good one”) and Luxa’s eventual acceptance suggest potential growth. This moment critiques the Underland’s rigid social hierarchy while foreshadowing possible reconciliation through Hazard’s mixed heritage.
4. How does Gregor’s retelling of past events to Luxa serve both plot and thematic purposes?
Answer:
Gregor’s recap (the Bane’s survival, Nerissa’s role, the plague) efficiently fills Luxa (and the reader) in on key developments, advancing the plot. Thematically, it reinforces the consequences of mercy (sparing the Bane) and the value of overlooked individuals like Nerissa, whose intelligence saved lives. His mention of “all who were stricken” by the plague underscores the stakes of their quest. This dialogue also strengthens Gregor and Luxa’s bond through shared vulnerability, as both later recount their traumatic journeys.
5. Evaluate Ripred’s leadership style in the Vineyard of Eyes sequence. What strategies does he use to motivate the group?
Answer:
Ripred employs a blend of pragmatism and psychological bolstering. He first grounds fear in logic (“Others must have survived”), appealing to reason. His call for “courage” directly addresses Gregor’s panic, while deferring to Hamnet’s expertise (“What do you suggest?”) shows strategic collaboration. By framing the challenge as achievable (“we can do it”), he fosters collective resolve. This contrasts with Hamnet’s rigid rules (“no circumstances, leave the path”), highlighting Ripred’s ability to balance morale with practicality in high-stakes situations.
Quotes
1. “Gregor hoped this wasn’t embarrassing him, but if it were, he didn’t show it.”
This quote highlights the dynamic between Boots, Temp, and Gregor, showcasing Boots’ enthusiasm and Temp’s struggle with numbers. It reflects the camaraderie and patience among the group despite their differences.
2. “I am always proud of Nerissa. If fools wish to belittle her, it does not affect my judgment of her gifts.”
Luxa’s statement underscores her loyalty and respect for Nerissa, emphasizing the theme of valuing inner worth over external judgment. It also reveals Luxa’s growth in leadership and empathy.
3. “Suddenly, all the beauty became sinister, and Gregor did not want to enter the Vineyard at all.”
This quote captures the turning point where Gregor realizes the deceptive nature of the Vineyard of Eyes. It illustrates the chapter’s theme of hidden dangers and the contrast between appearance and reality.
4. “Courage, boy. Others must have survived it and lived to tell the tale if your Doctor Neveeve has a record of it in her books. That means it can be done. And if it can be done, then we can do it.”
Ripred’s words serve as a rallying cry, reinforcing the theme of perseverance and collective strength. It marks a pivotal moment where the group prepares to face the Vineyard’s dangers together.
5. “But the Vineyard of Eyes drank in their sounds and gave them nothing in return. It was very creepy.”
This quote effectively conveys the eerie and oppressive atmosphere of the Vineyard, heightening the tension. It underscores the unnatural silence and the group’s vulnerability as they proceed.