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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. Why is Antonio's grandfather's house special?

2. What happens to Antonio once he eats one of Narcisco's carrots?

3. Why does Antonio's mother agree to bring la Grande Ultima into her home?

4. What makes Antonio sick to his stomach in Chapter 1?

5. Which brother is considered most like Antonio's mother?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the ultimatum between Tenorio, his men, Narcisco and Anotnio's father.

2. Describe the scenery as Antonio and his family drive to El Puerto.

3. What did Antonio's parents decide in Chapter 22 that Antonio would be doing the rest of the summer?

4. What happens to Florence while swimming at Blue Lake?

5. Why is Sunday a polarizing day of the week for the Marez family?

6. Describe the events surrounding Lupito's death.

7. Describe the sights and sounds of harvest time in El Puerto.

8. Describe the events which occurred when it was announced the war was over.

9. Describe how Antonio becomes one of the gang?

10. What are the advantages for Antonio being the youngest in his family?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Rudolfo Anaya, the author, believes the supernatural and ordinary reality exist side by side. What are some examples of the supernatural in the novel? What are examples of ordinary reality in the novel? Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Explain why or why not.

Essay Topic 2

Bless Me Ultima has been compared to James Joyce's Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. How does Catholicism influence Bless Me, Ultima? Does one have to be Catholic to understand Bless Me, Ultima? Why or why not? What other religion could be substituted in place of Catholic icons, images and people?

Essay Topic 3

Maria, Antonio's mother, is a deeply pious woman raised in a family with a strong attachment to the land. Ultima is la curandera who is blessed with supernatural healing powers. Which of these two women has a stronger relationship with Tony? How do these women compliment each other? How do these two women play conflicting roles for Antonio?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,057 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample