View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who says in Chapter 7: "I was the man beneath; [he] was on my back, and I thought I was on his.

2. According to Tamkin, which two important words begin with M?

3. What is the first place Wilhelm and Tamkin go in Chapter 5?

4. What religion was Wilhelm's mother during his childhood?

5. While in the store, who does Mr. Rappaport compare himself to?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The relationship between Dr. Adler and Wilhelm is very complex and volatile.

Part 1) Do you think their relationship changes from the beginning of the book to the end? Why or why not?

Part 2) Wilhelm constantly questions his love for his father. Do you think there is love in this relationship? Why do you think that?

Part 3) Does Wilhelm's relationship with his father help us to better understand Wilhelm's character? Why or why not? Cite specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 2

In the first chapter, Wilhelm recalls a line of poetry from a college textbook: "Sunk though he be beneath the wat'ry floor..."

Part 1) What do you think this means in the context of the original poem? How does it relate specifically to Wilhelm?

Part 2) This concept of water and sinking reappears throughout the rest of the book. Cite at least 3 examples where this metaphor is used.

Part 3) Why does Wilhelm constantly go back to this line? Why is he so drawn to it?

Essay Topic 3

In defense of his own intentions, Tamkin tells Wilhelm, "I deal in facts. Facts are always sensational. I'll say that a second time. Facts always! are sensational."

Part 1) What does Tamkin mean by this?

Part 2) How does this serve his own end with Wilhelm?

Part 3) Do you agree with Tamkin? Why or why not?

Part 4) Wilhelm later states, "These hints, made dully as asides, grew by repetition into sensational claims." Does this change the meaning of Tamkin's statement? What is Wilhelm saying about Tamkin and his deceiver's tactics?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 371 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample