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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. How does Tolkien feel when he looks at his work in the revision stages?

2. Where does the conversation about accents take place that Tolkien discusses in his letter to Christopher?

3. Why does Tolkien's new publisher need a summary of the books?

4. Which one of the following best describes Tolkien's recount of the history surrounding his poem in "Publisher Drama"?

5. How do the Hobbits respond to magic in Tolkien's stories?

Short Essay Questions

1. What clarification does Tolkien make about the word, "Elves"?

2. What are the Stages of History that Tolkien describes in Letter #131?

3. How does Tolkien refer to The Hobbit in his early letters to Christopher?

4. What are galleys in literature and how does Tolkien respond to the editing process of The Lord of the Rings?

5. What happened when the Elves and the Dwarves became friends in the past of Tolkien's fictional realm?

6. How does Tolkien characterize Sauron in Letter #131?

7. How can the One Ring of Power be destroyed?

8. How is Tolkien's proficiency in writing displayed in the story he tells to Christopher in his April 3, 1944, letter?

9. What is unique about Tolkien's poem, "Errantry"?

10. How does Tolkien write about being given the position of chairing the English department at the university?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze Tolkien's friendship with C.S. Lewis using his own accounts in the letters he writes about Lewis. Also, explain the controversy surrounding Lewis' work, the way Tolkien deals with his death, and the facts that Tolkien includes in remembering Lewis.

Essay Topic 2

Chronicle Tolkien's fascination with stories from his childhood to his career as an author. Include a description of how he used his skills and abilities to develop his appreciation of stories and languages.

Essay Topic 3

The One Ring of Power is a significant element in The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien's letters.

1) Describe the One Ring, its features, and the effect it has on whoever wears it.

2) Explain the only known way to destroy the Ring.

3) Analyze Tolkien's hypothetical assessment of why Gandalf would be worse while wearing the Ring than Sauron and whether you agree with him.

(see the answer keys)

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