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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. How long after Penelope's death did Michael disappear altogether from his family?

2. How old was Matthew when his mother began getting sick?

3. What book did Michael realize Clay was referencing when he mentioned the town where Michelangelo learned about sculpting?

4. Where did Michael buy the radio in "Arkansas"?

5. How long did Penelope suffer from her illness before she died?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the bridge signify in the novel?

2. Who is Claudia Kirkby and what is her importance in the novel?

3. How is Ted Novac described?

4. Why is Henry beaten up when he arrives home after Clay's return in Part 5?

5. How did Penelope respond when Matthew refused to practice piano in his youth?

6. What is the symbolic significance of the mattress at The Surrounds?

7. How did the Dunbar boys feel about playing piano? Why?

8. How did Carey ultimately begin training as a jockey?

9. What role did Clay play in Penelope's death?

10. What does the clothing peg carried by Clay represent?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Identify and discuss three examples of foreshadowing or red herrings in Bridge of Clay. What is the clue and what is foreshadowed? Does this example serve to create tension? Does it serve to develop humor?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the literary and mythological allusions in Bridge of Clay. What classical works are frequently referred to? What is their significance? How do these works connect to the overall themes of the novel?

Essay Topic 3

Identify and discuss three examples of irony in Bridge of Clay. What is an example of verbal irony related through character dialogue? How does situational irony apply in the story? What is an example of dramatic irony and to what purpose is it used?

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This section contains 680 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample