The Midwife’s Apprentice
Study Guide
Chapter 1 - 2
Vocabulary
Moiling
Bailiff
Torment
Taunted
Cockeyed
Hunch
Wimple
Bedeviled
Bedeviled
Chapter 1 “The Dung Heap”
1.
Who is Beetle? How old is she?
2.
How long has Beetle been on the streets? How does she keep herself warm?
3.
Who saves Beetle from the “taunting” boys of the village? Describe her?
4.
How did Beetle come about her name?
5.
What is meant by, “Those who don't work don't eat”?
6.
What does the woman decide to do with Beetle? Why?
7.
What is the woman’s occupation?
Chapter 2 “The Cat”
1.
How does Beetle’s life change?
2.
What animal does Beetle befriend? Why?
3.
What is meant by, “…for the midwife was generous with the work she gave Beetle and
stingy with rewards”?
4.
What do the boys put into a bag? Why?
5.
Why does Beetle save the cat? How does she do it?
6.
How does Beetle try to “comfort” the cat?
7.
When do Beetle and the cat actually become friends?