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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. Abbey likes the word, "Tukuhnikivats," which means

2. Separating from other human beings feels to Abbey like

3. The man who has initiated the search is the deceased man's

4. Abbey's campsite is

5. Abbey cancels his plans for

Short Essay Questions

1. Where is the heart of the desert, according to Abbey?

2. The trip down the Colorado for Abbey and Newcomb is blissful and idyllic. What, if any, is the dark side of this story?

3. Try to explain Abbey's rambling about naming things.

4. Do you think Abbey intended to risk his life by spending the entire day trying to entice Moon-Eye to come to him.

5. Why do the men make jokes about the dead man?

6. How does Abbey feel about leaving the desert and returning to the city?

7. Do you think Edward Abbey is a fanatic? Is his fear of a future dictatorial regime unfounded?

8. What is the difference between Abbey's heat waves and a mirage?

9. Why does Abbey prefer the desert to other environments?

10. If Abbey is somewhat indifferent to the death of a fellow human being, why would that be true?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The story of Moon-Eye reveals Abbey's compassion for animals. Write a researched essay about animal abuse in our country, and include detailed information on such groups as PETA and the SPCA, who try to protect animals from humans who neglect or abuse them. In your essay, explain your position regarding the ethical treatment of animals.

Essay Topic 2

There are hundreds of geographical features mentioned in Desert Solitaire. Make a table and list of all of the geographical features, look up their meanings and descriptions, and add images, if possible. Provide copies of your material to the class for reference as they read Desert Solitaire.

Essay Topic 3

What do you think Abbey's general attitude is toward his fellow human beings? His cynicism is obvious, however, are we able to see a softer side of Abbey when it comes to people? If so, explain and describe it. What emotions is Abbey capable of feeling in this environment?

(see the answer keys)

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