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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 13, Letters of the 1960s.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In describing the power of the pen, what aspect of fiction writing does Tolkien refer to when explaining his own writing process and the way he invents characters?
(a) The extensive reading of other fiction done before writing.
(b) The extensive research done before writing.
(c) The unpredictability of it.
(d) The predictability of it.

2. What will the alteration mean for the book Tolkien is writing in Letter #128?
(a) It will be designed to have a sequel.
(b) It will be meant to be read by children.
(c) It will be meant not to be read by children.
(d) It will be designed not to have a sequel.

3. What book has Tolkien recently completed when he writes a letter to W.H. Auden that is included in "To Anne Barrett of Houghton Mifflin Co."?
(a) The Lord of the Rings.
(b) Unfinished Tales.
(c) The Return of the King.
(d) The Silmarillion.

4. What words does Tolkien use to replace "Elves"?
(a) Elf, Elfen, and Elven.
(b) Elfen and Elven.
(c) Elf and Elfen.
(d) Elf and Elven.

5. With whom does Tolkien work in order to avoid the responsibilities of chairing the English department?
(a) Students.
(b) The dean.
(c) Colleagues.
(d) The department supervisor.

Short Answer Questions

1. As mentioned in Letter #66, why does Tolkien think that he will have to move some of the sections of his book?

2. Which one of Tolkien's books explains the history of Elvenkind?

3. What aspect of fiction is detailed in Letter #199?

4. Under what conditions is Tolkien asked to chair an English department in "The Professor"?

5. In general, why do Tolkien and C.S. Lewis meet several times?

(see the answer key)

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