- 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) Horseback
B) By bus
C) By car
D) Walking
- 2. In which country does Rory Stewart's journey take place?
A) Pakistan
B) Iran
C) Afghanistan
D) Iraq
- 3. During what time period did Stewart make his walk across Afghanistan?
A) Winter of 2002
B) Spring of 2003
C) Summer of 2001
D) Autumn of 2004
- 4. Which empire's ruler does Stewart follow the path of?
A) Cyrus the Great
B) Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire
C) Genghis Khan
D) Alexander the Great
- 5. What is the name of the dog that accompanies Stewart for part of the journey?
A) Khan
B) Zaman
C) Shir
D) Babur
- 6. Which mountain range does Stewart cross during his journey?
A) The Karakoram
B) The Hindu Kush
C) The Himalayas
D) The Pamirs
- 7. What is Stewart's starting point in Afghanistan?
A) Herat
B) Kabul
C) Kandahar
D) Mazar-i-Sharif
- 8. What is Stewart's final destination?
A) Kabul
B) Peshawar
C) Jalalabad
D) Islamabad
- 9. How does Stewart often secure shelter for the night?
A) By staying in hotels
B) By asking for hospitality in villages
C) By camping in the wilderness
D) By pre-arranging stays
- 10. What is the significance of the title 'The Places In Between'?
A) It refers to the remote villages between major cities
B) It describes the time between wars
C) It means places of meditation
D) It refers to pauses in the journey
- 11. What is Stewart's attitude toward the international intervention in Afghanistan?
A) Wholeheartedly supportive
B) Completely opposed
C) Skeptical and critical
D) Indifferent
- 12. What is notable about Stewart's travel style?
A) He travels with a large team
B) He travels alone and on foot
C) He uses modern equipment
D) He uses motorized transport
- 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 harsh but beautiful
B) As heavily developed
C) As monotonous and barren
D) As lush and fertile
- 15. What does the journey reveal about Afghanistan's political situation?
A) The limited reach of central government
B) The unity of the country
C) The success of reconstruction
D) The strength of democratic institutions
- 16. What is a 'chaikhana'?
A) A market
B) A teahouse
C) A fortress
D) A mosque
- 17. Stewart often relies on the hospitality of local villagers, which is a tradition known as what?
A) Zakat
B) Jirga
C) Melmastia
D) Purdah
- 18. What significant archaeological site, known for its giant Buddha statues, does Stewart visit?
A) Ghazni
B) Bamiyan
C) Herat
D) Kandahar
- 19. Stewart's journey highlights the importance of which ancient network of trade routes?
A) The Incense Trail
B) The Silk Road
C) The Spice Route
D) The Amber Road
- 20. What is the dominant religion of the people Stewart encounters?
A) Hinduism
B) Islam
C) Zoroastrianism
D) Buddhism
- 21. What is the primary language Stewart uses to communicate?
A) Dari (Persian)
B) Arabic
C) Pashto
D) Urdu
- 22. What is the Minaret of Jam?
A) A UNESCO World Heritage site Stewart visits
B) The palace of an ancient king
C) A famous market in Herat
D) A mountain peak he climbs
A) A form of greeting
B) A type of hat
C) A traditional dagger
D) A long, quilted coat
- 24. How does Stewart fund his journey?
A) By working along the way
B) Through a research grant
C) With his personal savings
D) He is funded by a newspaper
- 25. What do many villagers assume Stewart is when he first arrives?
A) A doctor
B) A tourist
C) A journalist
D) A spy
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