View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Whose birthplace is Steinbeck anxious to visit?

2. Why is Steinbeck shocked by Seattle?

3. What does the park ranger warn Steinbeck about as he enters the answer to #130?

4. Who is Steinbeck drawn to at the rest stops?

5. What does Steinbeck notice that have sprung up near urban centers?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Lonesome Harry.

2. Explain how the Badlands are a study in opposites.

3. What two national attractions does Steinbeck visit before leaving Montana?

4. Explain the irony in the scene where Steinbeck and Charley explore a sequoia grove.

5. Why is the rock with the mica in it so important to Steinbeck?

6. What effect is the Cold War having on average Americans?

7. How does Steinbeck justify his opinion that the river crossing at Bismarck is the true demarcation between east and west?

8. What philosophical thoughts does Steinbeck have when he passes into Idaho?

9. Why does Steinbeck fall in love with Montana?

10. What has Steinbeck learned about America so far?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Steinbeck is amazed by all the garbage dumps and junk yards he sees along the way. What would Steinbeck's perception be if he were to encounter the waste management system in America today? What would he say about the sheer volume of consumption and waste in America today? Would Steinbeck be a vocal recycling proponent?

Essay Topic 2

Explain how Steinbeck was able to diffuse a family fight between a gruff man in Idaho and the man's 20-year-old son who wanted to be a hairdresser in a big city. It is not stated, but there is the possibility that the young man was gay and the father could not accept this part of his son. Do you think this is the position Steinbeck was able to ascertain quickly? Explain why the topic of homosexuality was even more taboo in 1960 than it is today.

Essay Topic 3

What is Charley's role on the trip? Why does Steinbeck take a dog instead of a human on such an extended journey? What is the relationship between Steinbeck and Charley? Cite some examples that indicate the nature of their friendship.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 844 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample