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 drug does Jan Rodricks inject himself with after being smuggled on board the alien ship?

2. What does Karellen decide to do as the end of civilization approaches?

3. What is Jan Rodricks not allowed to photograph?

4. What is unique about the island George Greggson and Jean Morrel visit?

5. Why do the invaders plan to return Jan Rodricks to Earth?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain George Greggson's observations and feelings at the beginning of Chapter 21.

2. Why was New Athens founded, by whom, and what is its greatest artistic achievement?

3. Why do George Greggson and Jean Morrel move to New Athens? Describe their adjustment to their new home.

4. What happens at the council meeting between the leaders of New Athens and the Overlord "Inspector," Thanthalteresco? How does Thanthalteresco respond to Dr. Sen's comments?

5. What does Karellen tell Professor Sullivan about the whale display upon seeing it for the first time, and what is the significance of what he says ?

6. What is ironic about Jan Rodricks' return to Earth?

7. According to Karellen, why did the Overlords build Utopia, and what is his desire for mankind?

8. What is significant about the results of the tsunami on George Greggson's family?

9. In his radio address in Chapter 20, what does Karellen explain is his reason for occupying the planet?

10. How does Jan Rodricks respond when approaching Earth on his return, and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One goal of the Overlords is the establishment of a World Federation. Compare and contrast the concept of a World Federation to our current system of self-governing nations. Taking a look at both sides of the argument, choose which ideology seems the most reasonable, and justify that ideology. Explain whether or not insurrection against an established ideology is justified or not, using the Freedom League's opposition to the Overlords as a starting point.

Essay Topic 2

Religion vs. science is a dominant theme in "Childhood's End." Consider Karellen's desire not to be involved in spiritual matters. Explain why this is a standard he holds. Karellen donates an apparatus to the World History Foundation that shows footage of the past 5,000 years. In spite of the fact that he doesn't want to interfere in spiritual matters, the device dispels many religious views. Discuss and explain why Karellen chose to do this.

Essay Topic 3

"Childhood's End" was written by Arthur C. Clarke well before mankind actually began space exploration. Imagine that Clarke were writing the book in 2009. Describe what differences might be found in the plot of the book, what impact current technology might have in the writing of the book, and how the current world condition might impact the book. Select pivotal plot points from the book and describe how those points might be different should the book have been written this year.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 987 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample