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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why doesn't Senora Valencia name her son immediately?

2. Who stays with Senora Valencia the night after the children are born?

3. What position does Pico hope to hold one day?

4. How long has Sebastien been working as sugar cane worker?

5. Why is Senora Valencia concerned about having Dr. Javier deliver her baby?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the themes The Farming of Bones explores is the impact of nationalism. Discuss what the novel has to say about this theme. Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 2

The Farming of Bones looks at the relationship between the personal (i.e., love, friendships, family) and the political (i.e., government, military, nationalism). Discuss what the novel says about:

1) The relationship between the two. Are they always the same or different? Why?

2) What influences the personal? What else influences the political?

3) What impact do the two have on each other? Is it positive or negative? Why? Can the two co-exist happily? Why or why not?

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Then comment on the novel's view points. Do you agree or disagree with what the novel says about the relationship between the personal and the political? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Edwidge Danticat is a Haitian immigrant who came to the U.S. in 1969 when she was 12 years old. Knowing this piece of information:

1) Discuss how you think her background influenced the creation of this novel.

2) Discuss the viewpoints she likely brings to the novel.

3) Critique the novel's point of view. Is it more or less trustworthy? Is it more or less biased? Why?

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 384 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample