A Grief Observed | Short Essay Assignments

Short Essay Questions

The 60 short essay questions listed in this section require a one to two sentence answer. They ask students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the text. Students must describe what they've read, rather than just recall it.

Short Essay Question - Chapter 1

1. Why does Lewis think that grief is like fear? Describe the ways in which Lewis experiences fear.

2. How does Lewis try to convince himself that he does not mind H.'s death? Provide examples of the things that Lewis tells himself.

3. Lewis is surprised about the way that grief intrudes upon his daily responsibilities. What are some symptoms Lewis experiences about the laziness of grief?

4. Lewis begins to ask a question that becomes central to his reflections. What "disquieting symptom" introduces itself to Lewis in Chapter One?