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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. After spending time in Europe, what does Henry Adams decide to do with this part of his education?

2. Why does Henry Adams feel that study of the Law is closed to him?

3. Why does Henry Adams return to London in "Chaos"?

4. What does Henry Adams call "the last refuge of the educated poor"?

5. Why does the president of Harvard write Henry Adams a letter?

Short Essay Questions

1. In "Vis Nova", how does Henry Adams describe the "new American" found in the midwest?

2. How does man play into Henry Adams' dynamic theory of history?

3. Why does Henry Adams feel he can no longer work in diplomacy?

4. How does Henry Adams' friend, St. Gaudens, reflect his idea of The Dynamo and The Virgin?

5. How does Henry Adams feel about running into Sumner in Washington, DC in "The Press"?

6. What parts of Henry Adams' trip to Italy left a strong impression?

7. What does Henry Adams say will come of his meeting with Charles and Mrs. Gaskill?

8. Why did Henry Adams take an interest in statistics?

9. What happens at Cambridge House in "Foes and Friends"?

10. What does Henry Adams try to achieve in his working life in "President Grant"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Henry Adams spent much of his life as a writer. How did Henry Adams' articles help develop his theories of the world and life? Which articles contributed most to his personal development? How did writing help/hurt his education?

Essay Topic 2

Henry Adams admits to have a Puritan background and he often reflects on centuries that have past. How does Adams' Puritan background impact his life, education and theories? What about Puritanism and past centuries attracts Henry Adams and how does this help develop his character?

Essay Topic 3

Overall, what drove Henry Adams' education? Where did he receive the most education? How did he apply his education? What did Henry Adams see for the future of education? Explain how education existed throughout the entire novel.

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