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. Gibbsville lies in the _____________________ region.

2. Why does Lute decide to not take too much liquor to the party?

3. What does Al observe about the driver in the car ahead of him?

4. When is the Englishs' party scheduled?

5. Gibbsville is a stronghold of ______________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What comment does Lute make that is foreshadowing for an upcoming event?

2. How do the Englishes behave toward Julian and Caroline at Christmas dinner?

3. How does Julian's father react to Julian's death?

4. What was the fate of Julian's grandfather?

5. What is the irony of Julian's reaching out to Monsignor Creedon?

6. How does the author address the topic of alcoholism?

7. What happens when Julian goes to Harry's house?

8. How does the author show that Lute and Irma have a good relationship?

9. What are Al Greco's living arrangements?

10. What does Al do with his life after leaving prison?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the nature of Julian's guilt related to World War I? Why is Julian so volatile when he encounters Froggy? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

What was the author's purpose for establishing the story at the Christmas holiday? Is there any significance to his choosing this holiday? What is particularly poignant or painful about this choice for his characters? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Alcoholism is a big theme in this story. What part does it play in the financial health of the city? Cite some examples of its destructive nature especially as it applies to Julian English.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 784 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample