- 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) Horseback
C) Walking
D) By car
- 2. In which country does Rory Stewart's journey take place?
A) Iraq
B) Afghanistan
C) Iran
D) Pakistan
- 3. During what time period did Stewart make his walk across Afghanistan?
A) Autumn of 2004
B) Winter of 2002
C) Spring of 2003
D) Summer of 2001
- 4. Which empire's ruler does Stewart follow the path of?
A) Genghis Khan
B) Cyrus the Great
C) Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire
D) Alexander the Great
- 5. What is the name of the dog that accompanies Stewart for part of the journey?
A) Zaman
B) Khan
C) Babur
D) Shir
- 6. Which mountain range does Stewart cross during his journey?
A) The Himalayas
B) The Karakoram
C) The Pamirs
D) The Hindu Kush
- 7. What is Stewart's starting point in Afghanistan?
A) Mazar-i-Sharif
B) Herat
C) Kabul
D) Kandahar
- 8. What is Stewart's final destination?
A) Islamabad
B) Peshawar
C) Kabul
D) Jalalabad
- 9. How does Stewart often secure shelter for the night?
A) By pre-arranging stays
B) By staying in hotels
C) By camping in the wilderness
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 the remote villages between major cities
C) It refers to pauses in the journey
D) It means places of meditation
- 11. What is Stewart's attitude toward the international intervention in Afghanistan?
A) Indifferent
B) Wholeheartedly supportive
C) Skeptical and critical
D) Completely opposed
- 12. What is notable about Stewart's travel style?
A) He travels alone and on foot
B) He travels with a large team
C) He uses motorized transport
D) He uses modern equipment
- 13. What is a major obstacle Stewart faces from authorities?
A) Getting permission to travel through certain areas
B) Bribery demands
C) Arrest threats
D) Deportation warnings
- 14. How does Stewart characterize the Afghan landscape?
A) As heavily developed
B) As harsh but beautiful
C) As lush and fertile
D) As monotonous and barren
- 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 teahouse
B) A market
C) A mosque
D) A fortress
- 17. Stewart often relies on the hospitality of local villagers, which is a tradition known as what?
A) Zakat
B) Jirga
C) Purdah
D) Melmastia
- 18. What significant archaeological site, known for its giant Buddha statues, does Stewart visit?
A) Kandahar
B) Ghazni
C) Bamiyan
D) Herat
- 19. Stewart's journey highlights the importance of which ancient network of trade routes?
A) The Silk Road
B) The Spice Route
C) The Incense Trail
D) The Amber Road
- 20. What is the dominant religion of the people Stewart encounters?
A) Zoroastrianism
B) Islam
C) Buddhism
D) Hinduism
- 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 mountain peak he climbs
B) A famous market in Herat
C) The palace of an ancient king
D) A UNESCO World Heritage site Stewart visits
A) A long, quilted coat
B) A traditional dagger
C) A form of greeting
D) A type of hat
- 24. How does Stewart fund his journey?
A) Through a research grant
B) He is funded by a newspaper
C) By working along the way
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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