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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. When does "Gods and Generals" begin?

2. In the first battle over Richmond, how many men does Jackson have?

3. How is John Brown executed?

4. How long does it take Lee and his army to defeat the army that threatened Richmond from the east?

5. Where is John Brown from?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What does Armistead tell Hancock at Mina's party?

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

4. How does Jackson win the Second Battle of Bull Run?

5. What happens at Mina's party?

6. How does Chamberlain's wife respond to the news that he has joined the army?

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

8. What happens after Lincoln comes to visit McClellan on the battlefield?

9. What happens to Lee's belongings while he is in Texas after the election?

10. What happens to Lee and Longstreet on their way to meet up with Jackson before the Second Battle of Bull Run?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe at least 4 ways that the novel is changed -- either positively or negatively -- by having such detailed battle scenes. Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Discuss at least 3 literary devices that Shaara uses to help the reader better understand at least one character of your choosing. Use direct quotations and/or examples from the text to support your position.

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