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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is something H has always wanted to try?

2. Where does Mr. Naito live?

3. Who is Koiso?

4. Who does Nosaka blame Japan's devastation on?

5. Upon H's return to Kobe, what has happened to the Second Middle School?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

War breeds suspicion, paranoia, and distrust. In the novel, we see these concepts exhibited on a global scale as well as within the smaller confines of Kobe. Discuss how these concepts are intensified by:

a) The Japanese military

b) The newspapers

c) Rumors circulating Kobe

Essay Topic 2

The most dire situations can sometimes bring out the best in people. Discuss the theme of compassion as it relates to the story.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the novel, we see numerous examples of "blind faith" - Toshiko's undying belief in God, the Japanese's adoration of the Emperor, and the unquestioned belief that Japan will be victorious in the war. Our protagonist, H, seems to be against the grain, as he questions most everything he hears. Is H faithless? Or does H believe in something other than the power of religion, government, or military?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 246 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample