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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. The difference between the desert and other geographic areas is its

2. Abbey's decision to take a shortcut in the Havasu Canyon

3. Abbey likes the word, "Tukuhnikivats," which means

4. The man who has initiated the search is the deceased man's

5. All creatures in the desert at this time of year

Short Essay Questions

1. Try to explain Abbey's rambling about naming things.

2. Why do you think Abbey wants to own Moon-Eye?

3. Why does Abbey persist in pursuing Moon-Eye when the heat and conditions have become quite uncomfortable for him?

4. How does Abbey feel about leaving the desert and returning to the city?

5. Why does Abbey refer to himself as a true patriot?

6. What is the difference between Abbey's heat waves and a mirage?

7. Where is the heart of the desert, according to Abbey?

8. What influences Abbey's final decision to abandon his quest for Moon-Eye?

9. Why do the men make jokes about the dead man?

10. Abbey mentions thinking the unthinkable as he drives through the desert past the Arches headquarters. To what is he referring?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the time(s) in history that this book was written. By the time of the last printing of this story, what had happened that had exposed, particularly to Americans, the true nature of the rat race we had created? Would this book have been more important if it had been written during another era? Would it have been given more attention by reviewers and critics if it had been written in this decade? Be sure to read Abbey's Preface to learn about how the book was received.

Essay Topic 2

In his chapter on exploring the "maze," Abbey encourages his friend, Bob Waterman, to hide from the draft board out in this country where no other human resides. Why is it ironic, or not, that this particular interaction takes place in the maze? Do a close reading of this chapter and determine whether Abbey has layered it with additional meaning and symbolism, and provide examples. Is Abbey a true patriot, as he claims?

Essay Topic 3

Edward Abbey is a reporter and narrator, explaining what he sees, hears, feels and experiences. However, he does not necessarily let the reader into his heart and soul regarding his personal life. He chooses this reclusive job, and makes journeys into wilderness areas where there are no people. Is Abbey a recluse by nature? Why does he seem to prefer this solitude? Are there hints in the story about his personal life? If so, describe and interpret them.

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