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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. On what street does Elias' house sit?

2. How long does Tom expect to be gone on this whaling trip?

3. For what does Lydia chastise Dencey regarding the Oriental jars?

4. What color is the town's meeting house?

5. What happens to the baby of the man who died on the ship?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where does the Coffyn family move? Why do they like it, especially Dencey?

2. Why would Lydia be forbidden to marry Tom?

3. How soon after his last letter does Tom return home?

4. What does Tom promise his nieces and nephews as he was not aware of their presence in the home and did not bring any gifts for them?

5. What role does Elias,Tom's father, take on in the household? What does he do that scares Dencey?

6. Why is Lydia so concerned about the strength of Dencey's religious faith?

7. What is the family's response to Tom's homecoming, and what shock is in store for Tom regarding the size of his family now?

8. How do Lydia and Tom greet each other even though Lydia had been almost despondent without her husband?

9. How does Tom Coffyn meet Lydia Severance?

10. How does Sammie react to Dencey and her mission of forgiveness?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of pride. Identify at least two instances about pride in the book and then cite examples to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the significance of the book's title. What does the author mean by calling it simply DOWNRIGHT DENCEY. What is she trying to emphasize with this emphatic style? Suggest three alternate titles for this book with supporting rationale for each one.

Essay Topic 3

Caroline Dale Snedeker is a master at dramatic devices. Choose examples of symbolism, metaphor, and irony. Identify the device used for each and explain the examples.

(see the answer keys)

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