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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. Why were Bobby and his father named after Robert E. Lee?

2. What condition are Ogre and Baby Cakes in when they are found?

3. Chapter 8 How does Senator's friend, John Grimsley, get out of going to Vietnam?

4. Chapter 10 What is available to the men at Liberty Bridge?

5. What is Cannonball's reaction to Homicide's comments about fighting a white man's war?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Snake argue with Austin's order to send a platoon on the other side of the wire at the tree line for LP?

2. How do Senator's college friends find ways to avoid the draft?

3. What are the villagers carrying as they approach Hodges and his men?

4. How does Gilliland reach Pismo Beach to meet his wife after being discharged from the Marines?

5. Who is wounded during enemy fire in An Hoa?

6. Why is Bobby proud to enlist in the Marines?

7. Explain the circumstances when Bagger enlists in the Marines.

8. What is the Black Shack used for?

9. What does Bobby Hodges awaken to his first night in Vietnam?

10. What does Gilliland tell Hodges about the attitude of the civilians back in the States?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1) Interpret examples of human weakness and heroism depicted in the novel.

2) Cite examples of how each is valid with regard to the fear and danger each character encounters.

3) How realistic is Webb in his descriptions of these human qualities?

Essay Topic 2

Goodrich is one of the main constants throughout the novel. He is mentioned in all parts of the story and everyone's life seems to revolve around him.

1) Explain how Goodrich and the characters intertwine as the book progresses.

2) What relationship does he have with Hodges, Snake, Bagger, Phony, Mark, and his parents?

Essay Topic 3

1) Analyze how Webb depicts the soldiers during the final battle of the novel.

2) What role does fate plays in their lives?

3) How does Webb make use of figurative language during the battle?

4) How do each of these things relate to Snake, Senator, and Hodges?

(see the answer keys)

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