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

Short Answer Questions

1. How long do black miners have to work before they can apply to have their families join them?

2. Who is the leader of the Venloo Commandos?

3. What do the Xhosa do in response to Nonqause's prophecy?

4. When the principal of the high school takes Mrs. Van Valck to the classroom to observe her daughter and Petra in class, what does Mrs. Van Valck decide?

5. What does General JBM Hertzog's speech in Chapter Eleven involve?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In some generations in The Covenant, literacy is not of primary importance. Discuss the concept of education in The Covenant. Cite examples to support your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

Some marriages in The Covenant are arranged, some are marriages of convenience, and some are nontraditional interracial relationships. Discuss any three of the following relationships: Willem Van Doorn, Ateh/Deborah, and Katje; Hilary Saltwood, Vera, and Emma; Lodevicus Van Doorn, Rebecca, and Wilhelmina Heimstra; and Paul de Prè, Petronella Van Doorn, and Annatjie Van Doorn. How does the historical era of each union affect the relationship? What do you think the author is saying about the availability of single European women and life on the South African frontier through these marriages?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the theme of apartheid in The Covenant. Include the perspective of both white and black South Africans. What do you think the author is trying to say about apartheid through his depiction of it in the novel? Cite examples from the text to support your arguments.

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