Pre-AP English I Summer Reading Assignment: Oak Ridge High School Ninth Grade Campus

Prepare for adventure. Count on revenge.

The Count of Monte Cristo (translated and abridged)

Bantam Classic published by Bantam Dell
by Alexandre Dumas

This novel may be found at new and used book stores and at the public library. If at all possible, try to obtain your own
copy. Be sure to purchase the abridged version of the novel. There are several different versions of the abridged
version. We will be using the version by the publisher Bantam Dell.
Next school year you will be participating in a Socratic Circle. You will be expected to conduct extensive research of
theme, characterization, and plot analysis within the novel. To prepare for the assignment, please be sure to complete the
following:
1. Read the entire novel.
2. Answer the 8 questions below.
Directions: For each of the following questions, you must research and cite specific evidence from the text to support
your answers. You will need page numbers and quotes. Be prepared to support your opinions to your classmates. Each
response is one page written, or typed, 12 point font, double-spaced, Times New Roman.
A. Which characters best exemplify the idea of true love?
B. What events does the author use to build suspense? List 3 or more example.
C. What methods does Dantes use to exact revenge against different characters? Were these acts
justified? Why or why not.
D. Who is the cruelest character in the novel? Explain your answer.
E. Should Edmond have chosen Mercedes instead of Haydee? Explain your answer.
F. How did the historical context* influence the characters and the plot?
G. Does Dumas believe vengeance is wrong? Explain your answer.
H. Change your perspective on a character and provide five character traits that would NOT necessarily be
associated with that character. Give textual examples to support your answer. For example, how is
Dantes a liar?

*The historical context of a literary work is the time and place in which the work is set or written and the
themes and issues important at that time and place.

Extra Credit Opportunity (Choose 2)

I.

Compare and contrast the mother/son relationships in the novel.

J.

What are some attributes shared by Caderousse, Danglars, Fernand, and Monsieur de Villefort?

K. How would the ending be different if Edmond had chosen Mercedes?

L. Develop an original thematic statement for the novel based on the idea of ambition, or
perseverance. Provide several examples from the novel to prove your thematic statement

Please keep in mind the more work you put forth over the summer, the more prepared you will be for the
Socratic Circle in the fall. If you have any questions about your assignment, please contact the Pre-AP
English I teacher listed below:
Mrs. Hannah Dietrich

hdietrich@conroeisd.net