1. Merlin meets Morgause, Uther's illegitimate daughter, after developing a medicine for the ailing Uther. What are Merlin's impressions of Morgause? Does the author give any indication that there is more to Morgause than is being revealed?

2. Four men come to visit Merlin at Bryn Myrddin, claiming they are sent by King Uther. Merlin knows that this is not true. How does he know?

3. What parts of Arthur's upbringing do Merlin and Uther agree on? What parts do they not agree on? What is Merlin's solution to the problem?

4. What plan do Merlin and Ygraine develop for Arthur after his birth? Why?

5. How does Arthur finally meet Merlin? How does Merlin recognize the boy?

6. Why does the hermit at the Chapel of the Green feel comfortable telling Merlin about the story of Macsen's sword?

7. How does Merlin find Macsen's sword?

8. What does the term "Flood Year" refer to? Why is it important to the story?

9. What story does Merlin tell the young goat herd who is caring for him after he injures his hand? Why does he tell him the story?

10. Merlin admits to the reader for the first time since the story began that he is apprehensive about meeting with the queen. Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why is it necessary for Arthur to learn his true heritage when Merlin shares this vital information with Arthur? What impact does it have on Arthur?

Essay Topic 2

What is the truth behind the injury Uther received during a skirmish with the Saxons? Why has it made Uther question his future and Arthur?

Essay Topic 3

How does Merlin solve the problem of Morgause? Does the author give any indication that this problem will come back to haunt Arthur?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,152 words
(approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page)

View a FREE sample

More summaries and resources for teaching or studying The Hollow Hills.

View all Lesson Plans available from BookRags.

Copyrights

BookRags