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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 was the publication of THE HOBBIT quite a learning experience for Tolkien?

2. It was frustrating for the publishers to see Tolkien focused on every minute detail rather than what?

3. What did the Tolkiens hope would give them some relief from the almost constant and intolerable flow of visitors, mail, and gifts that were always present in Headington?

4. Ever since THE SILMARILLION was rejected in 1937 Tolkien was desperate to do what?

5. After Edith died, to where did Tolkien move?

Short Essay Questions

1. What ended Tolkien's focus on the new book and his Oxford professorship?

2. What happened when the money began pouring in?

3. What happened when Oxford took notice of the book?

4. How did Tolkien feel about splitting the book into three volumes? Upon what did he insist?

5. Is this deal a good idea for Tolkien? Why or why not?

6. Why was the publication of THE HOBBIT quite a learning experience?

7. How did Tolkien feel as the time drew nearer for the book to be published?

8. Why was the story of THE HOBBIT written?

9. How did Tolkien feel about having Allen and Unwin publish THE LORD OF THE RINGS? Why?

10. Why did Tolkien's relationship with Lewis deteriorate even further?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The story of THE HOBBIT is based on Tolkien's life.

Part 1) Describe THE HOBBIT. How is it based on Tolkien?

Part 2) Why does Tolkien use himself and his life when creating his work? How is Tolkien's life, personality, and character found in his other work?

Part 3) What aspects of your own life and character would you incorporate into a story? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Ronald falls in love with Edith Bratt.

Part 1) Who is Edith Bratt? How does Ronald meet her? What attracts him to her?

Part 2) How does his love and relationship with Edith resemble his parent's relationship? What do his intense feelings for Edith reveal about him as a person?

Part 3) How does his relationship with Edith change over time? What causes these changes?

Essay Topic 3

World War I greatly affects Tolkien.

Part 1) What happens during this war to affect Tolkien and his family? How might this compare to how the war affected others throughout the world?

Part 2) How might the events surrounding World War I have influenced Tolkien's work? Explain. How might the war have affected other aspects of life during this time? How might these changes in everyday life have had an influence on Tolkien's work?

Part 3) How has this war affected us today? How different would our world be if World War I had never occurred?

(see the answer keys)

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