Year 7 English Literature: Northern Lights by Philip Pullman

Introduction to Northern Lights

“Northern Lights,” also known as “The Golden Compass” in North America, is the first book in Philip Pullman’s acclaimed “His Dark Materials” series. It tells the story of Lyra Belacqua, a young girl who embarks on a thrilling journey to the North. Along the way, she discovers many secrets about herself and the world around her. This story is rich in fantasy elements and explores themes of growing up, courage, and the battle between good and evil.

Questions about Northern Lights

Character and Setting Questions

1. Who is the main character in “Northern Lights”?
2. What is Lyra’s relationship with her daemon?
3. Describe the setting of Lyra’s world.
4. How does the world in “Northern Lights” differ from our own?
5. What is a daemon, and what role does it play in the story?
6. Who are the Gobblers, and what do they do?
7. What are the main features of the North that Lyra travels to?
8. Describe the relationship between Lyra and her uncle, Asriel.
9. Who are the witches that Lyra meets, and what is their significance?
10. How does Lyra’s character change throughout the story?

Plot and Events Questions

11. What is the initial event that sets Lyra on her journey?
12. How does Lyra first learn about the missing children?
13. What role does the alethiometer play in Lyra’s quest?
14. Describe Lyra’s first encounter with the armoured bears.
15. What challenges does Lyra face in the North?
16. How does Lyra’s friendship with Will develop in the story?
17. What is the significance of the Dust in the plot?
18. How does Lyra’s journey lead her to discover her own identity?
19. What is the climax of the story?
20. How does the story resolve at the end?

Themes and Symbols Questions

21. What are the major themes of “Northern Lights”?
22. How does the theme of growing up affect Lyra’s character?
23. What does the alethiometer symbolise?
24. How do the daemons represent the characters’ inner selves?
25. What role does adventure play in the theme of coming of age?
26. How does Pullman explore the idea of loyalty in the story?
27. What is the significance of the Northern Lights in the title?
28. How do the characters’ choices reflect the theme of free will?
29. What does the relationship between humans and daemons suggest about identity?
30. How is the theme of good versus evil portrayed in the book?

Literary Devices Questions

31. What type of narrative style does Pullman use in “Northern Lights”?
32. Identify an example of foreshadowing in the story.
33. How does Pullman use imagery to create the setting?
34. What role does dialogue play in character development?
35. Give an example of a metaphor used in the book.
36. How does Pullman create suspense throughout the story?
37. What is the effect of using first-person and third-person narration?
38. How does Pullman use symbolism in the story?
39. Identify a key passage that illustrates Lyra’s bravery.
40. How does Pullman use humour to engage the reader?

Character Development Questions

41. How does Lyra’s personality evolve from the beginning to the end of the book?
42. What lessons does Lyra learn from her experiences?
43. Describe the character of Lord Asriel and his motivations.
44. How does the character of Mrs. Coulter contrast with Lyra?
45. What are the qualities that make Lyra a strong protagonist?
46. How do the supporting characters influence Lyra’s journey?
47. Describe the character arc of Iorek Byrnison.
48. What role does Lyra’s friendship with Roger play in her growth?
49. How does the presence of the witches affect the story?
50. In what ways does Will represent a different perspective on growing up?

Connection to Real World Questions

51. How can Lyra’s journey be related to real-life experiences of growing up?
52. What values can we learn from Lyra’s adventures?
53. How does the theme of friendship manifest in our lives?
54. Why is it important to question authority, as seen in Lyra’s actions?
55. How does the concept of loyalty in the book compare to our friendships?
56. What can we learn about bravery from Lyra’s character?
57. How does the exploration of different cultures in the book reflect our world?
58. In what ways does “Northern Lights” encourage critical thinking?
59. How can we apply the lessons of the story to current global issues?
60. What parallels can be drawn between the fantasy elements and real-life challenges?

Reflection and Opinion Questions

61. What was your favourite part of the book, and why?
62. How did the ending make you feel?
63. If you could ask Lyra one question, what would it be?
64. How does the book challenge your understanding of right and wrong?
65. What character do you relate to the most, and why?
66. How did the illustrations (if any) enhance your understanding of the story?
67. If you could change one event in the story, what would it be?
68. What message do you think Pullman wants to convey through Lyra’s journey?
69. How does reading about Lyra’s adventures inspire you in your own life?
70. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

Extended Analysis Questions

71. Discuss the significance of Lyra’s name in relation to her character.
72. How does Pullman use contrasting characters to highlight key themes?
73. What role does fate play in Lyra’s journey?
74. How does the author create a sense of wonder in the story?
75. Explore the impact of betrayal in Lyra’s relationships.
76. How does the setting of the North influence the story’s mood?
77. In what ways does the book address the loss of innocence?
78. Discuss the importance of knowledge and learning in Lyra’s journey.
79. What impact do the various societies in the book have on the narrative?
80. How does Pullman’s portrayal of authority figures shape the story?

Critical Thinking Questions

81. What do you think is Pullman’s purpose in writing “Northern Lights”?
82. How does the book challenge traditional fantasy tropes?
83. In what ways does “Northern Lights” reflect modern societal issues?
84. How does Pullman use irony in the story?
85. What can be said about the role of women in Lyra’s world?
86. How does the interaction between different species (humans, daemons, bears) enrich the story?
87. In what ways does the book promote empathy?
88. How does Pullman handle the concept of death in the narrative?
89. Discuss how the title reflects the themes of the book.
90. What critiques can be made about the portrayal of power in “Northern Lights”?

Final Thoughts Questions

91. If you could rewrite the ending, what would you change?
92. What do you think happens to Lyra after the events of the book?
93. How would you describe the tone of “Northern Lights”?
94. What are your thoughts on Pullman’s writing style?
95. How does the story make you feel about adventure?
96. What lessons about trust can be learned from Lyra’s experiences?
97. How does the concept of sacrifice play a role in the story?
98. In what ways does the book encourage self-discovery?
99. How do you think the story would change if told from another character’s perspective?
100. What is your overall impression of “Northern Lights,” and what impact did it have on you?

Answers to the Questions

Character and Setting Answers

1. Lyra Belacqua.
2. Lyra’s daemon is her soul in animal form, reflecting her emotions and personality.
3. The setting includes a parallel universe with a mix of Victorian elements and magic.
4. In Lyra’s world, daemons exist, and there are different societies and creatures.
5. A daemon represents a person’s inner self and is always with them.
6. The Gobblers are kidnappers who take children for experiments.
7. The North is cold, dangerous, and home to mystical creatures.
8. Asriel is Lyra’s uncle and a scientist; their relationship is complex.
9. The witches are allies who understand the importance of Dust.
10. Lyra becomes more courageous and self-aware throughout her journey.

Plot and Events Answers

11. Lyra overhears a conversation about the Gobblers.
12. She learns about the missing children from her friend Roger.
13. The alethiometer helps Lyra find the truth and make decisions.
14. Lyra meets Iorek Byrnison, who becomes her ally.
15. She faces treachery, danger, and moral dilemmas in the North.
16. Lyra and Will’s friendship grows as they face challenges together.
17. Dust is a mysterious particle linked to consciousness and fate.
18. Lyra learns about her courage and the complexities of good and evil.
19. The climax occurs when Lyra confronts Mrs. Coulter.
20. The story resolves with Lyra making important choices about her future.

Themes and Symbols Answers

21. Major themes include growing up, courage, and the battle between good and evil.
22. Lyra learns responsibility and the consequences of her actions.
23. The alethiometer symbolises knowledge and truth.
24. Daemons show characters’ true feelings and personalities.
25. Adventure helps Lyra discover her identity and capabilities.
26. Loyalty is tested in Lyra’s relationships with friends and allies.
27. The Northern Lights represent mystery and enlightenment.
28. Characters’ choices reflect their values and beliefs about freedom.
29. The daemon-human bond represents the connection between intellect and emotion.
30. Good versus evil is shown through the conflict with the Gobblers and Mrs. Coulter.

Literary Devices Answers

31. Pullman uses a third-person narrative style.
32. An example is when Lyra dreams about the North before her journey.
33. Imagery describes the cold landscapes and magical creatures vividly.
34. Dialogue reveals character traits and motivations.
35. An example of a metaphor is comparing the alethiometer to a compass.
36. Pullman builds suspense by revealing secrets slowly.
37. First-person gives personal insight, while third-person offers broader perspectives.
38. Symbolism is found in the alethiometer and daemons.
39. A key passage shows Lyra confronting danger to save her friends.
40. Humour lightens serious moments and engages the reader.

Character Development Answers

41. Lyra grows from a naive girl to a brave and thoughtful leader.
42. She learns about trust, responsibility, and sacrifice.
43. Lord Asriel is ambitious and driven, seeking knowledge at any cost.
44. Mrs. Coulter is manipulative, contrasting Lyra’s innocence.
45. Lyra’s determination, curiosity, and bravery make her strong.
46. Supporting characters challenge and support Lyra’s growth.
47. Iorek Byrnison’s journey mirrors themes of redemption and strength.
48. Roger’s friendship teaches Lyra about loyalty and sacrifice.
49. The witches provide wisdom and guidance to Lyra.
50. Will represents a different but complementary approach to challenges.

Connection to Real World Answers

51. Lyra’s journey mirrors the struggles of growing up and finding oneself.
52. Values of bravery, friendship, and questioning authority are important.
53. Friendship’s loyalty and support are central to both the book and life.
54. Questioning authority is crucial for personal growth and justice.
55. Our friendships can reflect the loyalty seen in the book.
56. Lyra’s bravery inspires us to face our fears.
57. Different cultures in the book highlight the importance of understanding others.
58. The book encourages readers to think critically about choices and consequences.
59. Lessons in trust and sacrifice are applicable to global issues today.
60. Empathy and understanding for others are vital in our lives.

Reflection and Opinion Answers

61. My favourite part is when Lyra first uses the alethiometer; it shows her growth.
62. The ending felt bittersweet, leaving me wanting more.
63. I would ask Lyra how she felt about her choices.
64. The book challenges me to think about morality and ethics.
65. I relate most to Lyra because of her curiosity and bravery.
66. Illustrations enhance my understanding of the magical world.
67. I would change a moment of betrayal to show more trust.
68. Pullman wants to convey the importance of self-discovery and choice.
69. Lyra’s adventures inspire me to be brave in my challenges.
70. Yes, it has great themes of adventure and self-discovery.

Extended Analysis Answers

71. Lyra’s name can symbolise light and exploration of knowledge.
72. Contrasting characters highlight different approaches to power and morality.
73. Fate plays a role in guiding Lyra towards her destiny.
74. Wonder is created through imaginative descriptions of the world.
75. Betrayal impacts Lyra’s relationships and her understanding of trust.
76. The North’s harshness creates tension and danger in the story.
77. The loss of innocence is shown through difficult choices.
78. Knowledge and learning are vital for overcoming obstacles.
79. Various societies reflect real-world issues of diversity and conflict.
80. Power dynamics influence the characters’ motivations and actions.

Critical Thinking Answers

81. Pullman’s purpose may be to challenge conventional stories and morals.
82. The book subverts typical fantasy tropes by offering complex characters.
83. It reflects modern issues like authority, freedom, and personal growth.
84. Irony appears in characters’ motivations contrasting with their actions.
85. Women in the book are portrayed as strong, complex figures.
86. Interactions between species enrich the narrative and themes of unity.
87. Empathy is taught through Lyra’s relationships and experiences.
88. Death is treated as a natural part of the journey and growth.
89. The title reflects the mystery and enlightenment of Lyra’s quest.
90. Power is critiqued through the actions of characters like Mrs. Coulter.

Final Thoughts Answers

91. I would make the ending more hopeful for the characters.
92. I think Lyra continues her journey of discovery beyond the book.
93. The tone is adventurous, mysterious, and thought-provoking.
94. Pullman’s writing is descriptive and engaging, drawing readers in.
95. The story makes me excited about exploring new experiences.
96. Trust is shown to be crucial in forming strong relationships.
97. Sacrifice is vital in Lyra’s journey, showing love and loyalty.
98. The story encourages us to explore our identities and beliefs.
99. The perspective change would provide new insights into the narrative.
100. “Northern Lights” is a compelling and thought-provoking read that inspires.

Feel free to use these questions and answers to enhance your understanding of “Northern Lights” and to foster discussions about its themes and characters!