Questions on “The Sniper” by Liam O’Flaherty
Name ___________________
1. What is the setting of the story? Give at least three details.
2. Find an example of direct characterization. Quote the exact words where
the author uses direct characterization.
3. Find an example of indirect characterization. Quote the exact words
where the author uses indirect characterization.
4. Is the sniper cautious? How does the reader know?
5. Is the sniper justified in shooting the old woman? Why or why not?
6. Why does the sniper place his cap on his rifle? What happens after the
rival sees the cap?
7. How does the sniper feel right after he kills his enemy? What type of
conflict does this represent?
8. Give examples of the following types of conflict in the story.
• Man vs. Man
•
Man vs. Society
9. The ending of the story is an example of what literary device?
10. Based on the events in the story, what does the author seem to imply
about war? Is it a positive, heroic message or a negative anti-war theme?
Explain your answer.