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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. What does Gary learn during his last interview - "Says it's illegal to use _______ to shoot me."

2. Who is the famous journalist/reporter that is in town trying to learn more about the Gary Gilmore case?

3. The night before his execution, Gary and his friends enjoy "A Night of Dancing and Light ____________."

4. Why does Gary have a temper tantrum which leads to his being forced to spend Christmas in solitary?

5. What does Nicole entrust Tamara with, although she asks for them back?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where are Gary's ashes spread after his death, suitably illegally spread?

2. Describe the Mormon vision Peter Galovan has about Gary.

3. What does Earl Dorius find out in a phone call the night before Gary's execution?

4. Why does Jeff Newman try to push his way into Nicole's house?

5. What are the refreshments provided to Gary on his last night before the execution?

6. What gives Schiller a leg up in the competition to get the rights to Gary's story?

7. Why are Sam Smith, the Warden, and other officials looking over the laws?

8. Why can't Gary eat pizza along with the other friends of his when they visit in the prison?

9. What does the signal of rubbing his chin mean Schiller wants Gary to do during an interview with the media?

10. What does Gary do in response to his new execution date of January 17?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The idea of nature versus nurture is an obvious theme in this story. One might suppose that Gary was the product of his upbringing, while others might suggest he was simply an evil person.

Part 1: Cite at least two examples of supporting evidence that the environment was the cause of Gary's behavior.

Part 2: Cite at least two examples of supporting evidence that suggests Gary is simply an evil person.

Part 3: What do you think? Do you think Gary's environment or his biology led to his actions?

Essay Topic 2

Grace, Gary's apologist, continues to believe he does not deserve to die, that there were other reasons for his actions.

Part 1: Describe the two reasons why Grace thinks Gary may not deserve to be punished.

Part 2: Why would someone like Grace stick up for Gary?

Part 3: If you were in a similar position as Grace, would you have stuck up for Gary? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The theme of religion is one that presents itself again and again in this book. The Mormon Church lurks in the background throughout the events of this story.

Part 1: Does Gary seem to be a religious person? Support your answer.

Part 2: Why do you think Campbell thinks it's okay for Gary to be killed by the state?

Part 3: How does the Mormon Church affect Gary's case? If not, why not?

(see the answer keys)

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