HCPS RELA G10 U3 Week 22 Briefcase Character and Theme Guide

Part One: As you read, look to see what motivates the Chef, and whether that motivation changes over
the course of the story. Complex characters, like us, often have conflicting motivations. To help follow
this development as you read, complete the chart below.

How writer’s
reveal Considerations for the
Reader Reflections
character’s Chef in “The Briefcase”
motivations
Think about the actions
that the Chef takes as he
takes over the Professor’s Actions Wants
life. Make a list of the
Character’s actions and what they tell
you about what the Chef
Actions wants.

The chart is not an accurate

reflection of the amount of
things that the Chef does.
Think about all the
interactions that the Chef
has with other characters
in the story. For each
interaction listed, reflect
on what is revealed about
Character’s the Chef’s character and
Interactions his motivations.
LETTERS: The Chef continues to write letters to the
Professor’s wife and friends because he needs them
to believe that the Professor, who he is pretending
to be, is still alive so that they will continue to send
him money. This reveals that the Chef is selfish and
only cares about himself because his primary
motivation for leading the Professor’s loved ones on
is money. The Chef does need money to survive, but
it is still extremely inconsiderate of others to pretend
to be someone he’s not in order to receive money.
LOVER:

For example, why does the LANDLADY:

Chef continue to write
letters to the Professor’s
family and friends? What
does that say about him?
POST OFFICE CLERK:

WIDOW:
HCPS RELA G10 U3 Week 22 Briefcase Character and Theme Guide

The Chef is obsessed with

answering the question
on the Professor’s test.
He also deals with
Character’s memories from his past.
Thoughts List three examples of his
thoughts and what each
reveals about his
character and
motivation.

Part Two: Write a paragraph in which you explain what you believe is the main motivation of the Chef.
Make sure that you provide textual support to help develop your answer.