Leiningen Versus the Ants Assignment
Everett Robinson 9-31

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Intro
  • Definitions
  • Plot Structure
  • Character Roles
  • View point used
  • Conflicts
  • Why Leiningen Stays
  • Suspense
  • Quote meaning
  • Stag Scene
  • Attacks vrs. Defences
  • Ironic Outcome
  • Crossword
    • How the Author Creates Suspense

     Carl Stephenson creates suspense in the story by leaving the ending undeterminable right up to and beyond the last paragraph. Suspense is built up by the continuous series of defences being breached. The reader feels the hope that each defence will succeed, but knows that the horde of ants as described by the author will not give up easily. The quote where Leiningen and his men imagine the ants having a thought shows the ants' determination. “Ditch or no ditch, we’ll get to your flesh.” The fact that Carl Stephenson leaves the ending indeterminable is an excellent and suspenseful touch on the story. “I told you I’d come back,” he murmured, “even if I am a bit streamlined,” He grinned and shut his eyes. He slept. The reader is left with a sense awe by the fact that Leiningen returned alive, but wishes desperately to know if he survives or not. It leaves one to contemplate what may become of Leiningen the next day, or even if there is a next day.