The House of the Scorpion

Chapters 4-5

After you have read up to chapter 5, individually answer the following long answer
questions. Go back into the text to find evidence to support your points. Make sure you
submit your answers through the drop box when you are done.

1) Celia snaps at Matt when he calls her mama, but then says “I love you more than
anything in the world. Never forget that. But you were only loaned to me, mi
vida.” Why doesn’t she explain the term “loaned” to Matt?

Celia doesn't explain the term "loaned" to Matt likely because it's a
complicated and painful concept for a child to grasp. She wants to protect
him from the reality of his existence as a clone. Matt being "loaned" implies
that he doesn't truly belong to her, and this might be emotionally painful for
a young child. Celia loves him, and she might believe that protecting him
from the full truth is an act of love, saving him from the reality of his
existence.

2) Celia really believes she is protecting Matt by keeping him locked in her cottage
and ignorant about his identity. Does this help Matt or hurt Matt? Explain.

Celia's intentions of protecting Matt by keeping him locked in her cottage

and ignorant of his identity come from a place of genuine love and
concern. In the short term, this might help Matt by protecting him from the
harsh realities of being a clone and the dangers associated with it. Celia
wants to provide him with a safe and loving environment.

3) Matt feels as though Rosa and the doctor do not see him as a real person. Why
is that? Do you think his assumption is correct? Explain. How does this make
Matt feel?

Matt's assumption that Rosa and the doctor do not see him as a real
person is likely correct. They treat him as if he is less than human, referring
to him as a "beast" and an "animal." This is a reflection of the society's
attitude towards clones in the story, where they are considered inferior and
subhuman.This makes Matt feel isolated, helpless, and insignificant.
powerless.
4) Why is he putting up with this kind of treatment? Is there anything he can do
about it?

Matt is putting up with this kind of treatment because he is a child and is

incapable of doing anything to the people who control his life. He doesn't
have the knowledge, resources, or support to challenge the authority of
Rosa and the doctor. He also may not fully understand his situation, and
his experiences have lead him to being submissive.