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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 Natasha do after she receives Everett's letter in Book Six?

2. How does Hugh request to be buried?

3. What does Peter call his mental state while awaiting a pitch?

4. What is unique about Hugh's last pitch?

5. What is the name of the church Irwin and Linda have been attending?

Short Essay Questions

1. What causes Winnifred, or Freddy, to become upset at Sunday School with Mrs. Babcock and to begin quoting Muhammad?

2. When Everett receives Natasha's letter proclaiming her love, how does he respond?

3. After going into hiding after burning his draft card, which event causes Everett to question his identity and value?

4. What reason does Natasha give to Everett for not wanting to sleep after their coffee date in Book Four?

5. What horrible event in Linda's past makes her afraid to live alone after Irwin leaves for the army?

6. What position does Ty Daniels and the rest of the Portland Tug team take towards Hugh when he throws his last wild pitch and leaves the team?

7. Why does Irwin quit the baseball team?

8. What secret about Linda does Bet reveal to Kincaid in Book Five?

9. How is Everett's attitude in regards to his imprisonment?

10. Why does Everett think Myshkin is a prodigy in literature and art?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Duncan utilizes the literary device of hyperbole extensively throughout The Brothers K. Using at least three textual examples, describe how Duncan uses hyperbole, how it contributes to characterizations or pacing, and whether or not it is effective.

Essay Topic 2

In the novel there are several figures that could serve as the archetypal "hero" figure. Using specific examples from the text, identify one character that could be considered a hero archetype and describe how Duncan demonstrates this in the novel. Be sure to discuss whether or not Duncan is effective. Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

In The Brothers K a lot of focus is given to the issues of right versus wrong. Using specific characters and situations, discuss how Duncan highlights this dichotomy and specifically how the idea of right versus wrong relates to good versus evil.

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