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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 does Gretchen call Rudolph?

2. What is Mary contemplating on this evening?

3. Who picks Gretchen up on the roadside?

4. To what city is Thomas sent to stay with relatives?

5. What is Gretchen afraid that Willie will take with him?

Short Essay Questions

1. What important realization does Rudolph come to while temporarily working in the family bakery?

2. What happens to Thomas as a result of his beating Mr. Greening?

3. How has Teddy Boylan helped Rudolph with his career and at what point does Rudolph call an end to the relationship?

4. What are the reasons that Axel is depressed which ultimately lead to his death?

5. Explain why Thomas is so happy living in Ohio.

6. In what way is Gretchen showing some emotional growth?

7. How does Rudolph capitalize on his relationship with Teddy Boylan?

8. What behavior does Gretchen seem unable to shake?

9. What is Mary's reaction when she learns that Axel gave up $5,000 to save Thomas?

10. What happens to the $5000 Thomas gives back to Rudolph?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What do you think are the three main sorrows in Mary Jordache's life? Cite examples to support your answers. Explain how Mary grows from these experiences.

Essay Topic 2

Project into the future ten years after the end of the novel and write a brief synopsis for the lives of four of the characters. Remember to exclude Thomas but you may choose from Rudolph, Gretchen, Jean, Kate, Dwyer, Wesley and Billy.

Essay Topic 3

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

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This section contains 811 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample