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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. Who delivers the request from the Secretary of War to Lee?

2. What does Houston tell Lee when they first meet?

3. Who finally relieves McClellan of command for the last time?

4. Where does Jackson teach when he is first introduced in "Gods and Generals"?

5. What kind of teacher is Jackson portrayed as?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens at Mina's party?

2. What kind of expectations are made clear when Lee is given command of Virginia's provisional army?

3. How do Hancock and his men end up attacking Richmond?

4. Why is Colonel Ames's message from McClellan about how victorious their battle is received poorly?

5. What do Chamberlain and Sergeant Kilrain discuss during their first march to Washington?

6. What is tricky about Hancock's arrive in Yorktown before the first battle over Richmond?

7. How did Lee win the first battle over Richmond?

8. What responsibility does Lee give Jackson when Jackson comes to him seeking an assignment in Virginia's forces?

9. Why is the Confederacy energized by the Battle of Bull Run?

10. Who is Mr. Hamilton?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Historical fiction, and "Gods and Generals" in particular, are an especially popular type of novel. Discuss at least 4 aspects of Shaara's writing style that resonates so strongly with such a large audience, citing specific examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 2

Present a well-reasoned paper arguing whether the reader is supposed to find Lee a likable (patriotic, dedicated, intelligent) character OR an unlikable (fighting for slavery, morose, rigid) character. Make sure to use specific examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 3

Analyze at least 3 literary techniques Shaara uses to make one character of your choosing from "Gods and Generals" very likable OR very unlikable to the reader.

(see the answer keys)

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