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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. Who is being treated as a martyr because of sympathy for the poor in Chapter 5?

2. What does Everhard reveal the truth about to Avis in Chapter 4?

3. What is the group that Everhard says is the only group that counter using force through a little known law in Chapter 8?

4. The tension between what two opposing interests is the driving force behind the plot of the Iron Heel?

5. What does Avis call Everhard?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Everhard's effect on Avis.

2. Describe Everhard's argument that causes the Bishop to protest.

3. Describe Cunningham.

4. What does the contemporary author H. Bruce Franklin describe about London?

5. What does Everhard argue effectively about at the dinner party?

6. Describe the men in the room at Avis' father's dinner party apart from Everhard.

7. Describe Avis' ongoing investigation of Jackson's life circumstances.

8. Why does Avis call Everhard an eagle?

9. Why is it important to be vigilant in society in the Introduction?

10. Why does Wickhard offer Everhard a job?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Politics are also referred to in the book. London refers to the politics of the society of Iron Heel compared to that of Americans of his time (1900s.) Discuss the use of politics in the novel. Do you think politics are an important part of the book? Explain. How else could London incorporate politics into the book? Also examine the use of politics in relationships.

Essay Topic 2

Love is a recurring theme in Iron Heel. How does Avis's feelings about love change from the beginning of the novel to its end? In what ways has she expanded her awareness and beliefs? Is sexuality connected to love for Avis? How does her feelings for Everhard develop and change and how does her relationship with him contrast with that of other men that she has had romantic or an idealized relationship with? Describe.

Essay Topic 3

One of the main themes in the book is ethical and social responsibility. List at least four examples where the author employs this specific theme. Is the battle between making ethical choices obvious or subtle? What characters are involved in this kind of battle? Do you think the right person or group won? Does good always triumph over evil in the case of Iron Heel ethics? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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