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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. When asked by the Archbishop what effect his theory has on religion, what does Einstein answer?

2. What is ironic about Hitler's attitude toward Einstein in Chapter Twelve?

3. How does the new prestige of the award from Chapter Ten affect Einstein's behavior?

4. When asked by a reporter if he is happy in America, how does Einstein respond?

5. Einstein learns he is awarded what distinction at the end of Chapter Nine?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Einstein's behavior after Elsa's death in Chapter Thirteen tell the reader about him? Is he insensitive?

2. Why does Einstein finally decide to settle in America?

3. With what group of critics does Einstein grow angry in Chapter Eight, and why?

4. Why do some Berlin scientists imply that Einstein is a traitor to his country?

5. The Holocaust is not underway when Einstein elects not to return to Germany. Why does he decide to stay away from his homeland?

6. Explain why the author calls Einstein a false prophet at the beginning of Chapter Eight.

7. Why is Elsa Einstein unhappy in Jerusalem? Explain.

8. Describe and explain Einstein's answer to the reporter who asks about the political climate in Germany. Why is Einstein so careful in answering?

9. Why are the Einsteins happier in California than on other trips? What is different?

10. Why is Einstein happier at Princeton University than he is at previous appointments?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Max Planck and Einstein have an interesting professional relationship that changes and evolves over the years. Planck is an important figure in Einstein's life. Discuss the different stages of their relationship and the reasons it changes.

Essay Topic 2

Albert Einstein is a pacifist. Using supporting material from the book, explain his world view and how it evolves over the course of his life. What are the factors that initially influence him to become a pacifist, and why does he eventually abandon the notion? How does his pacifism affect his scientific career?

Essay Topic 3

Describe Einstein's changing relationship with his religion, from his attitude toward it as a child through young adulthood and finally to old age. In what ways does religion influence him through his life, if at all? How does he reconcile faith with science?

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