View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the name of the first story that Kurt demonstrates with a line graph?

2. What was the only way Kurt could get into an adult conversation when he was young?

3. How many men did the British government execute for 'machine breaking' in 1813?

4. What would Kurt ask when he gets to heaven?

5. What can Kurt not imagine a funny book about?

Short Essay Questions

1. How did age affect Kurt's upbringing?

2. Who was Emma Lazarus?

3. What era did Kurt grow up in?

4. Why does Kurt think "Hamlet" is such a popular story?

5. What marketing tip does Kurt give readers?

6. What advice does Kurt have for readers about creative writing?

7. What does Kurt say about electronic communities? Do you agree?

8. What does Kurt say about what men and women want?

9. How did Kurt break new ground with his marriage?

10. What does Kurt make jokes about? What can he not make jokes about?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay comparing Kurt Vonnegut to another humorist, such as Mark Twain. Using the example of at least one book from each author, compare style, message, and philosophical standpoint with special attention given to similarities.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay on the topic of mainstream culture, focusing on the formulaic aspect of books, movies, and so on. Be sure to address:

1) Common themes and formulas in mainstream culture.

2) The primary elements of mainstream culture and audience, and what makes something 'mainstream.'

3) The pros and cons of mainstream culture and art.

Essay Topic 3

Write an informal essay on the importance and role of music in your life, and the lives of those around you. Discuss your favorite musical artists, and how their music influences you.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 801 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample