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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Dannager refuse to say "Good-bye" to Dagny?
(a) Because he doesn't want her to know his plans.
(b) Because she will join him where he is going one day.
(c) Because she has no idea that he is leaving.
(d) Because he is glad to be getting away from her.

2. Dr. Stadler talks about having known John Galt who he believes is dead. What is his recollection of Galt?
(a) Galt was an early leader of the communist movement.
(b) Galt had the most brilliant mind he had ever encountered.
(c) Galt was an insurrectionist and trouble maker.
(d) Galt was the brains behind the revolutionary motor.

3. A theme that runs throughout ATLAS SHRUGGED is one which shows strength and character outside but emptiness and moral corruption inside. What metaphor does Ayn Rand use to illustrate this idea?
(a) The deteriorization of New York City.
(b) The flaws in Rearden steel.
(c) The old oak tree that was struck by lightning.
(d) The engine of a Taggart train.

4. Because of the Equity of Distribution Law, there is now a Deputy Director of Distribution handling all of Rearden Metal's orders. What is his nickname?
(a) The Wet Nurse
(b) D-three
(c) The Enforcer
(d) The Terminator

5. What is Dagny's reaction to Eugene Lawson's claim that his motives were pure at Twentieth Century Motors because he never made a profit?
(a) She accuses him of lying.
(b) She agrees that the motives were pure.
(c) She praises him for his generosity.
(d) She says the idea is despicable.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Dagny object to about the San Sebastian Line?

2. What is Dagny's reply to Cherryl's comment that she is "the woman in the Taggart family"?

3. How does the organization, Friends of Global Progress, view Rearden Steel?

4. What does Dagny notice before leaving Dannager's office?

5. What is so unusual about the cigarette Dagny gets from Dr. Hugh Akston?

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss the different views from "the top" and "the bottom."

2. The "Immovable Movers" in Rand's novel are the industrialists like Dagny and Rearden who produce because it is in their blood to do so. They produce for the joy of accomplishment and thus provide for the society as a whole. Rand compares them to the mythical Greek god Atlas who purportedly holds up the world on his shoulders. Explain her conclusions.

3. Discuss the significance of the names Rand gives to the businesses in ATLAS SHRUGGED.

4. Why is the idea of "motive" so important in the novel? Explain in detail.

5. Describe how the chain is viewed by Henry Rearden, Lillian Rearden, and Dagny Taggart. Explain its significance to the story.

6. How does the Twentieth Century Motor Company demonstrate the results of the communistic idea of "from each according to his ability, to each according to his need"?

7. At first, Hank Rearden dislikes Francisco d'Anconia. Explain his reasons.

8. Describe the meaning and the purpose of "white blackmail."

9. What is the significance of "the best hamburger" Dagny has ever tasted when she goes to the diner in Wyoming?

10. Discuss the significance of the turnout of Taggart employees and the armed guards every mile along the initial John Galt Line train.

(see the answer keys)

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