View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is "Twilight Sleep"?

2. When does Polly think Lottie should be notified that Betty is in labor?

3. What wedding gift does Sade give to Betty?

4. Who hosts a wedding shower for Betty?

5. How many children does Trudy have in Chapter 12?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Betty feel such a strong desire to leave Milk Farm Road?

2. What does Herman's enthusiasm for going to war show about him?

3. Why are Herman's letters a source of anxiety for Betty?

4. Describe the flurry of pre-wedding activities and plan for Betty and Herman.

5. How does Betty learn that Herman has joined the Navy and what is her reaction?

6. What is Lottie's philosophy on helping people in the community?

7. What does Betty recall about her earliest memories?

8. What lessons does Trudy teach Betty regarding parenting?

9. According to Trudy, what is the best part of being abandoned by her husband?

10. Who is Herman Randolph and what is his relationship to Betty?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one instance of irony in the book. Cite at least two other examples you can identify in the book and note why they are examples of irony.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the role of women in the South in the 20th century when the women in the novel are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century women do not have?

Essay Topic 3

A CURE FOR DREAMS is a classic story of loss and renewal. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 812 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample