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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 John state is one of the best traits of good people?

2. How does John hope to die?

3. What holiday does John say his grandfather was asked to say a few words during?

4. How did Lila respond when he asks her how he could repay her for tending to his garden?

5. According to John, what does light seem to be a metaphor for?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is John's point on preaching on Hagar and Ishmael?

2. What moves John to tears during his conversation at the church with Jack?

3. What is John's response to the possibility that there may be something approaching love between Lila and Jack?

4. How does John describe the responsibility that comes from encountering another person?

5. What is the nature of the discussion John and Jack have about predestination?

6. Describe Della's family situation.

7. How does John give Lila instruction prior to her baptism, and what is the nature of this instruction?

8. How does John recall Boughton's parents?

9. Describe the nature of the letters Edward is sending home to his father and brother.

10. What are two memories of pranks that John and Boughton share on Boughton's porch?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Several important truths about Jack Boughton are revealed on pages 217 - 233. Identify these truths, and discuss how it is shown that Jack might be developing some sense of character.

Essay Topic 2

C. S. Lewis wrote a partial autobiography, "Surprised by Joy," in 1955. This same concept, of being surprised by feelings of joy, elation, or even peace, is a common thread in "Gilead." Describe evidences in John's life that show that many times he was "surprised by joy," and how this gives understanding into both his character and how he responds to various situations in the book.

Essay Topic 3

It is conceivable that Jack Boughton and John's wife Lila have common traits. While John's descriptions of Lila are admittedly sketchy, discuss any parallels between these two characters, but also any significant differences.

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