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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 did Jack steal from John that made him "as angry as I have been in my life"?

2. How does John hope to die?

3. What church holiday does Lila first come to church on?

4. What was Boughton watching his children, Jack and Glory, do?

5. What were Jack Boughton's first words to John after he met him in church the first time?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does John recall about how his grandfather was invited to speak at a town picnic?

2. John states that he doesn't forgive Jack, writing "I wouldn't know were to begin." What provokes this statement?

3. Describe Della's family situation.

4. What are Jack's reasons for coming home to Gilead?

5. How does John recall Boughton's parents?

6. John writes an extensive contemplation of the Ten Commandments, focusing on the Fifth Commandment. What are some of his thoughts?

7. What are John's thoughts on "The Trail of the Lonesome Pine"?

8. Contrast how John felt about Lila when first becoming acquainted with her to how he felt about his first wife, Louisa.

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

10. Describe the relationship Jack had with a lower-class, uneducated girl.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses dialogue as a narrative technique very rarely. Discuss the author's possible reasons for using dialogue in this fashion, and why it is employed in the parts of the story it is.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Christianity and interpretations of the bible play an important role in the book's actions and themes. Discuss whether or not unfamiliarity with the bible is a handicap in understanding Gilead. Consider whether or not this is a "religious" book, and defend your answer. Discuss whether the book would appeal to or be a turn-off to someone with little or no interest in religion, and why.

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