Print
Word
PDF
|
| Name: _________________________ | Period: ___________________ |
This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.
Short Answer Questions
1. What does Gregory think that In the American Grain is meant to do for the American national identity?
2. What does the narrator admire about the Pilgrims?
3. What adjective does Williams use to describe Champlain?
4. Why does Williams criticize historian A. C. Adams at the beginning of "The May-Pole at Merry Mount"?
5. What kind of woman is Freydis?
Short Essay Questions
1. Gregory says that In the American Grain is not a historical textbook or book of essays. What is it?
2. In his letter to Benjamin Franklin, why does John Paul Jones keep bringing up the conduct of Captain Landais?
3. Why did De Soto's men try to keep the Indians from finding out about his death?
4. How does Williams explain the fact that Aaron Burr was never made ambassador to France, even though he was recommended three times for the appointment, and that he was never made Brigadier General, even though he was ready for the post?
5. Why does Gregory not fully appreciate the chapter on Cotton Mather?
6. What proof does Cotton Mather offer to show that witches can make themselves invisible?
7. How is Morton treated by his captors?
8. What is Champlain's reaction to hearing that there will be an attempt on his life?
9. What is the one moral failing that Williams mentions that George Washington has? How does this failing affect Washington?
10. Why did Ponce de Leon travel around the Caribbean? What was his business there?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
Why do you think Williams chooses to tell the stories of Eric the Red and Freydis? What makes these tales part of the American grain? Use evidence from the narratives to support your answer.
Essay Topic 2
William Carlos Williams includes, as part of In the American Grain, several essays about historical figures who served in the military: George Washington, John Paul Jones, Aaron Burr, Alexander Hamilton. How does military life fit into the American Grain? Does military life only affect those who serve in the military, or is it also a part of being American for those who never do any military service? Write an essay responding to this question in which you cite the experiences of these four men as they are depicted in Williams' essays, and also draw upon your own experiences and values in contemporary America.
Essay Topic 3
At the end of "Poor Richard," Williams states, "...almost nothing remains of the great American New World but a memory of the Indian." What do you think Williams means by this? Write an essay explaining the connection of the Indian to the American Grain. Support your answer with evidence from the book.
|
This section contains 850 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) |
|
