Director, Environmental Studies
Professor of English

Study questions on Edward Abbey, The Monkey Wrench Gang

 as Word document

Pages given first refer to the hardback copy on e-reserve (Lippincott 1975). Pages in (parenthesis) refer to the paperback copy (Avon 1976).

Chapter 5: The Wooden Shoe Conspiracy

1. Compare the tone, style, and voice of this chapter of a novel with the tone and style of the non-fiction personal essay Desert Solitaire. In what ways are they different (go beyond the obvious)? In what ways are they similar? What are the strengths and limitations of each? What are the different impacts on the reader?

2. What philosophy of nature and spirituality of nature is found in this chapter? Be as specific as you can. See especially pp. 61, 63, 65, 66 (58, 60, 62, 63).

3. How is ecotage presented in this chapter? What different actions are they considering? What is their attitude toward taking these actions? How does this section of the chapter relate to the essay “Eco-Defense?”

4. What unstated values are at work in these discussions? What social and environmentalphilosophy is implicit in their discussions and judgments? What criteria are they applying to determine what is appropriate and inappropriate action? (These are part of what I call the “basis” in my view of critical thinking.)

Chapter 6: Raid at Comb Wash

1. As you read this chapter, think about the style and tone. How would you describe the style and tone? What kind of literary techniques does Abbey use? What kind of effect does the style and tone and techniques have on the reader?

2. What are the specifics critiques of contemporary society made in this chapter? In particular, what is meant by Doc’s analogy of the anthill, p. 84 (79)?

3. What are the main goals of the group? See especially p. 82 (77). Some people, including nature writers, would disagree with that goal. Do you think it is appropriate? Why?

4. The characters debate the appropriateness of specific types of ecotage here and throughout the novel. What are the different positions taken by the characters? Why would Doc object to “vandalism,” p. 86 (81), when the group is making a great deal more destruction than slashing seats?

5. How is the destruction of plants (e.g., a pinyon pine) portrayed, p. 79 (74-75)? What philosophy of nature is involved? Do you share the author’s view of plants?

6. What are each character’s view of the “enemy?” Why does each character hold his view? Note in particular the debate on pp. 96-97 (90). What is your attitude toward the corporations that are doing the “development” and the workers in the bulldozers?

7. What is Hayduke’s attitude toward women in general and Bonnie Abzug in particular? Look for various aspects in his view, rather than just one component. What role and significance does this view play in the novel? Why do you think Abbey includes it?

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