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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. In what material does Alys wrap Claire after rubbing her dry with a rough cloth?

2. What color does Claire love for its playfulness?

3. What reason does Claire give Alys for why her community had chosen to eradicate feelings of love in its citizens?

4. Who had kept Einar's father from flinging his infant body into the fire on the day of Einar's birth?

5. How many sit-ups does Einar tell Claire to do every day?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Einar reveal to Claire about his father?

2. How is Trademaster's appearance described in the narrative?

3. What elements of the job of fisherman make it dangerous for villagers who undertake the position?

4. What examples of Einar's father's abuse within Einar's story involve Alys?

5. How does Claire's reaction to reaching the summit of the hill path change over time?

6. Though Alys is childless herself, what experience does she have that qualifies her for the care of Claire upon Claire's arrival in the village?

7. What advice does Alys give to Tall Andras when he expresses a romantic interest in Claire?

8. What idea does Einar get after seeing Claire hold Bryn's baby?

9. What is the reason for Bryn's falling into despair and how does Alys try to help?

10. What is Alys's reaction to the news that Claire is training to climb out?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Few characters within the novel have particularly strong relationships with members of their biological families and by omitting key relationships with inherent biological ties, the author can redefine the notion of family within the narrative. Choose three relationships within the novel that demonstrate familial bonds, describe the circumstances surrounding these bonds, and discuss how these relationships fuel the author's message about the definition of family.

Essay Topic 2

Analyze Claire's decision to allow Einar to train her for her climb up the rock face and for her coming encounter with Trademaster. Assess the effectiveness of his training and the effectiveness of her application of that training in the fulfillment of her goals.

Essay Topic 3

Determine the author's message regarding the value of individualism within the novel Son. Support your claim with quotes from the narrative. Be sure to use a variety of characters and situations to back up your arguments.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,049 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample