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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. From what event can ordinary humans not learn how much pain and humiliation to endure before calling an end to everything?

2. Vonnegut believes MIT can set an example by adapting what to its undertakings?

3. For Vonnegut writing books is like what?

4. What tough question does Vonnegut's book "Player Piano" ask?

5. How do the MIT students react to Vonnegut's speech?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Vonnegut believe Alcoholics Anonymous is the U.S.'s most nurturing contribution to planetary culture?

2. Why should many people take offense to privileged Vonnegut?

3. Although the subtitle of SLAUGHTERHOUSE FIVE is "The Children's Crusade," what are the average ages mentioned of those who died in war?

4. Name two things Vonnegut mentions in his letter to the future.

5. What is the Folk Society?

6. What does the "Kilimanjaro Device" give as an alternative to Hemingway's shooting himself in the head?

7. How are ex-hippies more scarred than Vietnam veterans?

8. Why do the MIT graduates applaud politely but not take Vonnegut seriously?

9. Do you think, based on the information given, Rita Rait enjoys winning the limerick contest? Why or why not?

10. What have other cultures done to oppress Germans and those of German descent?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Vonnegut says he does not care if he is remembered when he dies.

Part 1) What examples of authors does he give who do want to be remembered?

Part 2) Compare and contrast the reasons why Vonnegut and other writers may or may not want to be remembered.

Part 3) Do you want to be remembered when you die? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Vonnegut believes all writers grow dated.

Part 1) Give a detailed example of proof that this belief could be true.

Part 2) Explain a similarity between Father's architecture career with this belief.

Part 3) How has this belief affected Vonnegut's own writing?

Essay Topic 3

Today's rulers are doing nothing to Nature's stern but reasonable surrender terms.

Part 1) Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not?

Part 2) What efforts do you make to help the planet?

Part 3) How do you see our planet in 1,000 years?

(see the answer keys)

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