The Interlopers

How would you describe the men’s relationship with nature and the natural world? Does it change throughout the story?

Given Ulrich’s realization that the land is not worth fighting over, how do you understand the men’s feud? Why did it persist if there is nothing important to fight over? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

How does the author’s use of value-laden words (negative or positive) give insight into the characters’ mentalities?

If the men die at the end, is it more tragic that they have reconciled, or would it be worse if they had not? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Describe each man’s relationship to law and lawfulness. Does their regard for the law change over time? What effect does that have on the story?

Where in the story is the idea of honor pertinent? How do the men relate to the concept?

How does the title relate to the story? What or who are the interlopers? What other title or titles would be appropriate? Explain your ideas in connection with the story.

Who do you think is most to blame for the events of the story? Explain your reasoning with evidence from the text.