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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. Which of the following is not a reason why strip mining is so popular?

2. Miriam's father and uncle are both gifted amateur __________________.

3. What allows man to think he is master of the universe?

4. Who becomes the spokesman for the Kentucky residents affected by strip mining?

5. What is Conrad Richter's first novel?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the subject of "South of Kankakee?"

2. What is the scope of David Plowden's work?

3. What closing words does McCullough offer the graduates?

4. What is the purpose of McCullough's words in "Recommended Itinerary?"

5. What is Miriams' affinity to fleas?

6. Who is Miriam Rothschild as described in this chapter?

7. Describe Miriam Rothschild.

8. What is the subject of "Long Distance Vision?"

9. Which aviators does McCullough include in this chapter?

10. In what areas is life indelibly altered during this period?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

McCullough has friends in both the writer, Conrad Richter, and the photographer, David Plowden. What similarities do Richter and Plowden share in their personal philosophies? In their work? Why would McCullough be drawn to both these men and their work? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

David Plowden considers himself to be more of an historian than photographer which is why he is driven to capture people and places before they disappear. Explain the ultimate futility of Plowden's work since history is always on the heels of the last moment.

Essay Topic 3

David Plowden is fascinated by trains and takes his first picture of one when he is ten years old. How can you explain Plowden's fascination with trains? What do trains signify to people? What is the allure of the concept of leaving and the loneliness of the one left behind?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 872 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample