Lincoln: A Novel | 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 - Part 1, Chapters 1-7

1. Explain the premise of Part 1, Chapters 1-7.

2. How does Vidal open the novel?

3. What is the Albany Plan and how does it set the stage for political machinations throughout the novel?

4. How are the beginnings of a conspiracy against Lincoln introduced in Chapter 2?

5. What role does Mrs. Lincoln play in her husband's presidency?

6. What is Lincoln's position on blacks at the beginning of the novel and how does that change as the story evolves?