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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. Which of the following does NOT describe Granda's behavior with Jamie?

2. After talking to Karen, what does Jamie determine?

3. What does Karen tell Jamie about his accent?

4. What does Jamie note about Gran's friends?

5. Where does Jamie meet his mother while in Glasgow?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Jamie's last personal encounter with Granda Hugh.

2. How have Jamie's thoughts changed regarding becoming a father?

3. What event precipitates Jamie's contacting his estranged mother?

4. Describe Jamie's visits with Granda Hugh.

5. What are some of the things that Jamie loves about his girlfriend, Karen?

6. How is Jamie torn between the past and the present regarding Granda Hugh's reputation?

7. What is the opinion of Granda Hugh regarding the accusations from those who know him well?

8. What do Jamie and Karen talk about when he calls her from a phone booth?

9. What is Jamie's mother's condition when he meets her?

10. How does Granda Hugh put up a front regarding his physical state and the work he knows he will never accomplish?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

OUR FATHERS is a classic story of coming to terms with your past. What does that classification entail? Why does this book fit into this category? Explain

Essay Topic 2

Explain O'Hagan's use of symbolism and imagery in the story as related to the decaying buildings. What do the decaying buildings represent? Which characters are especially affected by the buildings and what do they mean to them?

Essay Topic 3

Create a character study of Gran Margie. What are her physical characteristics? What are her motivations? What are her fears? What are her dreams? What else can you say about Gran Margie?

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