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 evidence is in Martin's report on Sheila?

2. What does the black box do when it goes off?

3. Once the cathedral is taken by the Fenians, why can't Burke enter?

4. What does Bellini do with the Morse code message from the confessional?

5. What does Martin say about Flynn's threat to blow up the cathedral?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens at the ravine with the murder of the two British soldiers?

2. In Book 3, why does Burke think there is a British conspiracy as well as an Irish one?

3. What are the additional demands Flynn gives to Schroeder in Book 4?

4. What is being foreshadowed when Martin says "I wonder about that" in response to Burke saying they won't have to shoot their way in?

5. In Book 2, what does Brian place in the choir loft?

6. In Book 4, what does Father Murphy do in the confessional?

7. Describe Megan's disposition.

8. Who helps Brian and Maureen at the abbey, and what does Brian find out about him later?

9. What does the slogan "once in, never out" refer to?

10. When Burke brings the food requested by the terrorists, what does Maureen do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the novel Cathedral, Burke and Schroeder each act as negotiator at different times and in different ways. In an essay, compare and contrast each of their negotiating styles. Ultimately, who is more successful? Use examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, there are many times where a character has to make the decision to fight or run away. In an essay, cite examples of this fight or flight reflex in the novel. In each instance, evaluate whether or not the character did the appropriate thing. How might the story be different if the character did the opposite? Do you agree or disagree with the character's actions?

Essay Topic 3

In the novel Cathedral, there are strong lead male and female characters. Write an essay that analyzes the role gender plays in the character development of the novel. What character traits are assigned to male characters vs. female characters? Does the author assign traditional gender roles to his characters or does he mix them up? Use examples from the text to support your thesis.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 780 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample