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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 did the invaders build Utopia?
2. Why does Professor Sullivan build a decoy whale?
3. What is causing grief to people all over the world?
4. Why is Karellen sad for his race?
5. What is the name of George Greggson's daughter?
Short Essay Questions
1. What does Karellen tell Professor Sullivan about the whale display upon seeing it for the first time, and what is the significance of what he says ?
2. What does Karellen reveal during his weekly press conference in Chapter 14, and how does he justify the Overlords' actions based on their revelation during the conference?
3. What events are foreshadowed when the Inspector shares his report with Karellen after meeting with the New Athens council?
4. What is ironic about Jan Rodricks' return to Earth?
5. According to Karellen, why did the Overlords build Utopia, and what is his desire for mankind?
6. How does Karellen explain to Jan Rodricks mankind's ancient fear of the satanic appearance of the Overlords?
7. Why do the Overlords watch George Greggson's children?
8. In his radio address in Chapter 20, what does Karellen explain is his reason for occupying the planet?
9. Why are George Greggson and Jean Morrel spending more time with their children in Chapter 19?
10. How does Jan Rodricks respond when approaching Earth on his return, and why?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
George Greggson and Jan Rodricks seem to be kindred spirits. While they are alike in many ways, there are some significant differences, especially in how they respond to the Overlords' rule. Identify several differences and explain how they affect the outcome of their lives. Discuss how those differences are employed by Clarke to provide different perspectives for the reader.
Essay Topic 2
The Overlord "inspector," Thanthalteresco, is sent to observe activities on New Athens. Thanthalteresco, along with Karellen and Rashaverak, become the central Overlord characters of the novel, each with distinctive roles. Compare and contrast the work and relationships of these three Overlords with humans, noting their unique roles. Thanthalteresco seems especially interested in George Greggson's son, Jeffrey. Describe the relationship, emphasizing its positive or negative aspects. Karellen's attitude toward humans seems to change over the course of the novel. Describe that attitude, and explain why it may have changed entirely during the arc of the story.
Essay Topic 3
"Childhood's End" was written by Arthur C. Clarke well before mankind actually began space exploration. Imagine that Clarke were writing the book in 2009. Describe what differences might be found in the plot of the book, what impact current technology might have in the writing of the book, and how the current world condition might impact the book. Select pivotal plot points from the book and describe how those points might be different should the book have been written this year.
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This section contains 1,005 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) |
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