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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why did the Marez family move from the llano to the town of Guadalupe?

2. What will Ultima use to rid Lucas of the Trementina daughters' curse?

3. What does Antonio question Ultima about the fate of Luptio?

4. What happens to Antonio the first day of school?

5. What supplies does Antonio bring on his first day of school?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the scenery as Antonio and his family drive to El Puerto.

2. What is meant by the phrase "men of the earth"?

3. What is the significance of Ultima's blessing before Antonio leaves for school?

4. Describe the relationship between Antonio's mother (Maria) and father (Gabriel).

5. What is the importance of Antonio receiving his First Communion on Easter Sunday?

6. What is special about the arrival of Ultima into the Marez home?

7. Describe Antonio's dilemma as he grows up in Chapter 4.

8. Why is Florence's confession shocking to the other school children?

9. Describe the sights and sounds of harvest time in El Puerto.

10. Explain the story Father Byrne told of eternity.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Bless Me, Ultima is set in the Southwest United States, more specifically New Mexico. The region was originally inhabited by ancient Nuevos Mexicanos, who populated the region between Central America and the Rio Grande river valley in the United States. How does this setting enrich the story? What would happen if the novel were situated elsewhere? If you could rewrite the novel, what location would the story take place? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Bless Me, Ultima is a fusion between two worlds: folklore tradition and historical fiction. Cite examples of both folklore tradition and historical fiction. How do dreams and visions play a role in the novel? Do you believe the novel is fantasy or realism? Explain why.

Essay Topic 3

Bless Me, Ultima displays elements of magic. What are some examples of magic in the novel? How could any of these examples be explained scientifically? Do you believe Antonio is hurt from or benefits from these magical experiences? Explain your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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