- 1. The Places In Between by Rory Stewart is a captivating travel memoir that chronicles the author's remarkable journey on foot across Afghanistan in the early 2000s, shortly after the fall of the Taliban regime. Stewart, an Englishman with a deep fascination for the diverse cultures and histories of the world, embarks on this arduous trek from the ancient city of Herat to Kabul, traversing remote villages and rugged landscapes. Throughout his journey, he immerses himself in the rich tapestry of Afghan life, meeting a variety of locals, from farmers to warlords, and gaining profound insights into their struggles, hopes, and the complexities of Afghan society. Stewart's narrative is both lyrical and poignant, capturing the beauty and resilience of the Afghan people amidst the shadows of conflict and uncertainty. His reflections on the geopolitical landscape, the intricacies of human connection, and the stark realities of life in a war-torn country offer readers a unique perspective on a region often misunderstood. The Places In Between is not just a travelogue; it is a deeply human story that highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of adversity.
What is the primary mode of travel in 'The Places In Between'?
A) By bus
B) By car
C) Walking
D) Horseback
- 2. In which country does Rory Stewart's journey take place?
A) Afghanistan
B) Iran
C) Pakistan
D) Iraq
- 3. During what time period did Stewart make his walk across Afghanistan?
A) Summer of 2001
B) Spring of 2003
C) Winter of 2002
D) Autumn of 2004
- 4. Which empire's ruler does Stewart follow the path of?
A) Cyrus the Great
B) Alexander the Great
C) Genghis Khan
D) Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire
- 5. What is the name of the dog that accompanies Stewart for part of the journey?
A) Babur
B) Zaman
C) Shir
D) Khan
- 6. Which mountain range does Stewart cross during his journey?
A) The Hindu Kush
B) The Karakoram
C) The Himalayas
D) The Pamirs
- 7. What is Stewart's starting point in Afghanistan?
A) Kandahar
B) Herat
C) Mazar-i-Sharif
D) Kabul
- 8. What is Stewart's final destination?
A) Peshawar
B) Jalalabad
C) Islamabad
D) Kabul
- 9. How does Stewart often secure shelter for the night?
A) By pre-arranging stays
B) By camping in the wilderness
C) By staying in hotels
D) By asking for hospitality in villages
- 10. What is the significance of the title 'The Places In Between'?
A) It describes the time between wars
B) It refers to pauses in the journey
C) It refers to the remote villages between major cities
D) It means places of meditation
- 11. What is Stewart's attitude toward the international intervention in Afghanistan?
A) Indifferent
B) Skeptical and critical
C) Completely opposed
D) Wholeheartedly supportive
- 12. What is notable about Stewart's travel style?
A) He uses modern equipment
B) He travels alone and on foot
C) He uses motorized transport
D) He travels with a large team
- 13. What is a major obstacle Stewart faces from authorities?
A) Getting permission to travel through certain areas
B) Bribery demands
C) Deportation warnings
D) Arrest threats
- 14. How does Stewart characterize the Afghan landscape?
A) As monotonous and barren
B) As heavily developed
C) As harsh but beautiful
D) As lush and fertile
- 15. What does the journey reveal about Afghanistan's political situation?
A) The success of reconstruction
B) The unity of the country
C) The strength of democratic institutions
D) The limited reach of central government
- 16. What is a 'chaikhana'?
A) A mosque
B) A market
C) A teahouse
D) A fortress
- 17. Stewart often relies on the hospitality of local villagers, which is a tradition known as what?
A) Jirga
B) Purdah
C) Zakat
D) Melmastia
- 18. What significant archaeological site, known for its giant Buddha statues, does Stewart visit?
A) Herat
B) Ghazni
C) Bamiyan
D) Kandahar
- 19. Stewart's journey highlights the importance of which ancient network of trade routes?
A) The Incense Trail
B) The Spice Route
C) The Amber Road
D) The Silk Road
- 20. What is the dominant religion of the people Stewart encounters?
A) Islam
B) Hinduism
C) Zoroastrianism
D) Buddhism
- 21. What is the primary language Stewart uses to communicate?
A) Pashto
B) Arabic
C) Dari (Persian)
D) Urdu
- 22. What is the Minaret of Jam?
A) A UNESCO World Heritage site Stewart visits
B) A mountain peak he climbs
C) The palace of an ancient king
D) A famous market in Herat
A) A long, quilted coat
B) A form of greeting
C) A type of hat
D) A traditional dagger
- 24. How does Stewart fund his journey?
A) By working along the way
B) Through a research grant
C) He is funded by a newspaper
D) With his personal savings
- 25. What do many villagers assume Stewart is when he first arrives?
A) A spy
B) A journalist
C) A tourist
D) A doctor
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