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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. What was Granda's mother's name?

2. What type of businessman did Jamie consider Granda to be?

3. What type of flowers does Gran leave on Granda's grave?

4. How does Jamie consider his generation regarding local buildings?

5. Beside whose grave is Granda buried?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Granda Hugh put up a front regarding his physical state and the work he knows he will never accomplish?

2. What does Jamie's meeting with his mother signify for him?

3. Describe Jamie's visits with Granda Hugh.

4. What are some of the things that Jamie loves about his girlfriend, Karen?

5. What parallels the destruction of Granda Hugh's buildings?

6. Describe Jamie's last personal encounter with Granda Hugh.

7. Why does the author reintroduce the elements of orderliness and tidiness regarding Jamie's life?

8. What does Gran say about the accusations lodged at Grandpa Hugh?

9. How have Jamie's thoughts changed regarding becoming a father?

10. Describe the day that Jamie takes Granda Hugh out to the pubs.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The qualities of pressure and time seem to be almost unnamed characters in the book. How pervasive are they? Why do they have such a prevalent place in the characters' lives? Explain how an inanimate object or characteristic can be a character.

Essay Topic 2

O'Hagan is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

Essay Topic 3

Create a character study of Robert. What are his physical characteristics? What are his motivations? What are his fears? What are his dreams? What else can you say about Robert?

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This section contains 920 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample