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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 is the English translation for the names of the swords (Orcrist and Glamdring) that Thorin and Gandalf now own?

2. Which of the following does not happen when one of the adventurers steps into the ring of lights surrounding the elves' feast?

3. What does Bilbo see at nightfall as they travel towards Mirkwood?

4. What is the name of Gandalf's cousin?

5. How does the forest catch on fire in Chapter 6?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do the Wood Elves imprison the dwarves?

2. How many ways can Gandalf find of interpreting Bilbo's use of the phrase "Good Morning" and what are the different possible meanings?

3. Why do the adventurers take shelter in the cave in Chapter 4?

4. What strategy does Bilbo use to try to win the riddle contest (not including his final "What have I got in my pocket?" question)?

5. How does Gandalf manage to save the dwarves from being eaten by the trolls?

6. Describe in your own words how the riddle contest between Bilbo and Gollum was played and what the winner of the contest would win.

7. What do the adventurers take from the trolls' treasure hoard?

8. Why are the wargs (wolves) in the woods that night in Chapter 6?

9. Explain in your own words the history behind the the dwarves' quest for the dragon's treasure. Use details from the dwarves' song and Thorin's story in your answer.

10. What advice do Beorn and Gandalf give to Bilbo and the dwarves about the journey through Mirkwood?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Hobbit contains a lot of "author talking," where the author addresses the listener or reader directly (often referring to "you and me"). Sometimes, this can be effective, but at other times it can be irritating.

Part 1: Find an example of effective "author talking" and explain why it is effective.

Part 2: Find an example of irritating or distracting "author talking" and explain why this technique should not have been used.

Essay Topic 2

In building his fantasy world, Tolkien has used fantastic or imaginary elements as well as familiar and real-world elements in order to make his world believable.

Part 1. List and describe some familiar and real-world elements that appear within The Hobbit.

Part 2. List and describe the fantastic or imaginary (magical) elements that appear within this book.

Part 3. Evaluate whether Tolkien has managed to integrate the fantastic with the everyday successfully or not.

Essay Topic 3

Are any stereotypes or cliches used in The Hobbit? If so, what are they? If not, what are some things that make The Hobbit fresh and original?

(see the answer keys)

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