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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. How did Mason describe Tarwater's sister?

2. Why does the schoolteacher use the help of a welfare office worker?

3. Why does Tarwater say he went to the church?

4. What does Meeks do every time Tarwater mentions Mason?

5. Who shoots the schoolteacher?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Rayber suddenly duck his head and hide when he is watching Lucette?

2. Why does Tarwater eat so much at lunch before fishing?

3. Why does Rayber feel he can read Tarwater like a book?

4. Why does Rayber follow Tarwater quietly when he leaves the house?

5. How is it obvious that Tarwater is unfamiliar with telephones?

6. How does Rayber define "another child exploited"?

7. What does Tarwater tell the truck driver who asks him why his pants are wet?

8. Why is Tarwater concerned for his own soul while burying Mason?

9. What two histories does Tarwater say he knows "completely"?

10. Why does Tarwater balk at Mason's directions for burying him?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

This novel is set in the American South. Describe the setting, culture, and ways of the American South and how it impacted the novel and characters.

Essay Topic 2

"The Violent Bear It Away" is considered to be written in the Southern Gothic tradition which includes a setting in the south and the supernatural, among other elements. Find a definition of Southern Gothic tradition and reflect on how this novel fits or does not fit the definition.

Essay Topic 3

The three sections of "The Violent Bear It Away" feature Tarwater in three different settings and under the "care" of different family members, including himself. Compare and contrast the ways that each section helps develop Tarwater and reflects Tarwater as a character.

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This section contains 580 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample