1. A proverb is a wise saying, passed down over the years, expressed in brief, memorable form. Identify as many of the proverbs presented in the novel as possible. Analyze each in terms of the specific situations in which it is used in the novel and evaluate its validity in the context of modern American experience.

2. The novel presents many examples of tradition (superstition, foot-binding, and artisan-apprentice relationships) and examples of change (attitudes toward medicine, machines, and political revolt). Write a paper dealing with as many instances of tradition and change as you can find in the novel. Are the changes all for the good?

3. Various politicians and political parties are alluded to in the book, including Sun Yat-sen, Chiang Kai-shek, and the Nationalists. Do some research to find out who these people were and what the political situation was in...