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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 makes Murugan glow with enthusiasm?

2. What is a Rakshasi?

3. What did Will's teachers try to do about people's differences?

4. Who is meeting Will and Vijaya upon their arrival at the school?

5. Who calls Will while he is reading?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the most dangerous element to recognize in children and why is it the most dangerous?

2. Why do the Palanese accept the use of symbolism in religion, though don't encourage it?

3. What is the idea behind repetition in a religious nature?

4. What are the differences between what Will remembers about the Oedipus play and what Mary recounts?

5. How does AI contribute to a better destiny for the people of Pala?

6. Why does Murugan view the ceremony at the temple with open contempt?

7. How does Murugan's interest in consumer goods benefit Colonel Dipa?

8. Describe how Dr. Robert deals with Lakshmi's death.

9. Why does Mrs. Rao believe that Pala is the place for stupid people?

10. What does Moksha-medicine do for the Palanese?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare the average viewpoint of the rest of the world over those who live in Pala. How do they differ medicinally, in world outlook, in the way children are brought up, etc? In what ways are the viewpoints most dramatic?

Essay Topic 2

Compare the social benefits and possible downfalls of a MAC family over a dysfunctional family of our world. What are the similarities and differences? What are the pro's and con's?

Essay Topic 3

What is the significance of the title of the book Murugan is reading in Chapter 10? How does this title juxtapose Murugan's beliefs against those of the citizens of Pala? Can you make a similar juxtaposition in our culture? How is this relevant to the story?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 904 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample