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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. Who says, "Whenever there is doubt, run, not fight."?

2. At what time does the attack by the police begin?

3. In preparation for the attack by the police, why do the Fenians light every candle they can find?

4. Where is Maureen taken at the end of the book?

5. What does Maureen use to make a garrote?

Short Essay Questions

1. At the end of Chapter 45, it becomes clear to Burke that Flynn is trapped by the hostage situation. How is he trapped?

2. Describe the assault on the cathedral.

3. What is Maureen's response to Brian when he asks her to come with him after the hostage situation is over?

4. Describe the preparations the Fenians do with the lights just before the attack by the police.

5. Describe the pressure the Mayor uses to get everyone to go forward with the attack.

6. How would you describe the relationship between Schroeder and Burke? Why?

7. Why does Schroeder leave the press conference?

8. At the end of Book 4, Chapter 40, what new information does Jack Ferguson give Burke?

9. What does Langley report to Hickey about the status of the release of the prisoners?

10. Describe the conflict between Hickey and Flynn at the end of Book 4, Chapter 55.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After demanding to give a press conference, Flynn turns over the task of given the conference to Hickey. In an essay, analyze and evaluate this decision made by Flynn. Why didn't Flynn give the press conference? Do you think Hickey made the situation better or worse? In your essay, cite examples from the text to support your analysis.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay that outlines the theme of terrorism as it relates to the novel, Cathedral. Include the cause of the terrorist attacks, why the Fenians became terrorists, and whether or not terrorism was an effective way to reach their goals. In your essay, analyze whether or not terrorism works and strategies to curb future terrorist attacks.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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