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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 new job does the Bishop take on?

2. What reason is given to Mr. Slope for his firing?

3. Why are the tenant farmers angry with the Lookalofts?

4. In Chapter 33, who is Eleanor anxious to forgive?

5. Who says: "You are not destined to be son-in-law to a dean"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What things does Mr. Arabin do when he goes to London in Chapter 34?

2. What factors make Mr. Arabin an agreeable candidate for Eleanor according to Dr. Harding?

3. What role does Dr. Harding play in helping Mr. Arabin become Dean?

4. In Chapter 45, why do Bertie and his father argue and what is the result?

5. What does Bertie do instead of proposing marriage to Eleanor?

6. What happens in Chapter 39 when the Lookalofts join the upper class party?

7. Why does Dr. Harding visit Hiram's Hospital in Chapter 52?

8. What role does the Prime Minister play in the position of Dean of Barchester Cathedral?

9. What happens to Mr. Slope in London after being fired in Barchester?

10. Why does Mr. Arabin talk to the signora at the Thorne's party?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At the end of "Barchester Towers" it appears that all the characters have happy endings. What is significant about the ending of this novel? How does this close the conflict between the conservative and liberal factions of the church? What has been resolved in regards to the church vs. the government? How is it possible for all the characters to have happy endings?

Essay Topic 2

The wardenship of Hiram's Hospital was a point of debate between the two factions of the church. What is the wardenship? Why is it so hotly debated? What is symbolic about this position and the hospital? Who would you say is a "casualty" of the wardenship debate, and why? Who wins the debate and what exactly do they win?

Essay Topic 3

Several of the characters in "Barchester Towers" are described as being scholars. What does education mean in this novel? Who is well-educated? What kinds of education do the characters receive? How is education reflected on by the author? How do you think education fits in the society of "Barchester Towers"? Be sure to use evidence from the text to support your opinion.

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