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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. What does Michael begin to do when he discovers he is attracted to older women?

2. What chore does Moran gather the children to do?

3. How old is Michael when his sisters leave home?

4. What does Moran eye during the fight that makes Michael nervous?

5. What does Moran do when he catches Michael coming home late one night?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Maggie's life changed by Rose becoming part of the family?

2. What causes Moran to become more and more morose throughout Section 4?

3. In Section 5, what fills the house with joy?

4. What does Moran do when he finds out Michael quit school?

5. What begins to happen to Moran physically after Maggie brings home her newborn son?

6. As time goes on, what becomes the most important thing in Moran's life?

7. What subject infuriates Moran and sparks a fight between he and Rose?

8. How does Moran respond when he is questioned about threatening Michael with his gun?

9. What bad habits does Michael engage in once all his sisters leave the house?

10. By Section 5, what is Moran losing that he treasures most?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Symbolism is used throughout the novel. The Rosary in particular was a recurring symbol. Define symbolism and give three different examples of what the Rosary may have symbolized. Support each example with evidence from the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Analyze the ending of the novel. Do you think Moran needed to die for the women to feel free? Why or why not. Support your answer with examples and quotes from the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the rural setting of Great Meadows and the urban setting of London and Dublin.

1. What could these two different types of settings represent?

2. Would the story have been as powerful had it taken place outside of Ireland? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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