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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 old was Newt Hoenikker when his father died?

2. What was the name of Dr. Breed's wife?

3. What position does John discover Frank Hoenikker holds in San Lorenzo in Chapter 37?

4. What is the title of Chapter 21?

5. What is the name of the tombstone establishment where John goes with the cab driver in Chapter 31?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is significant about the metaphor of cannonballs in the narrative?

2. What irony can be found in Dr. Breed's discussions of superstition in Chapters 16-18?

3. How does Bokononism influence the language style of the novel?

4. How is Dr. Felix Hoenikker's personality described in Cat's Cradle?

5. Who is Lyman Knowles and what does he represent in the novel?

6. What statement do you think that Vonnegut is making in regards to politics and science in Cat's Cradle?

7. What symbolism can be seen in the graves of Emily and Felix Hoenikker?

8. What information does Newt relate about his siblings in his letter in Chapter 5?

9. How does Newt Hoenikker describe his interaction with his father on the day the atomic bomb was dropped over Hiroshima?

10. How is Bokonon's history and arrival at San Lorenzo described in Chapter 48?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe and discuss the history of Bokonon. How did Bokonon end up on San Lorenzo? Who was he with when he arrived? How did Bokonon gain control of the island? What did he institute once he gained control?

Essay Topic 2

Describe and analyze the character of Franklin Hoenikker in Cat's Cradle. How is Frank described as a child and a young man? What are the impressions of the narrator when he finally meets Frank? What is Frank's main role in the plot of the novel?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and analyze the character of Papa Monzano in the novel. How did Papa Monzano come to power? For how long has he been in power? What characteristics does Papa Monzano exhibit as a character and as a leader?

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