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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 industry in England is pushing to recognize the Confederacy?

2. Who is Emilie Helm?

3. Who is Salmon P. Chase's daughter?

4. What does Lincoln ask John Hay to research?

5. Where is the body of Col. Ellsworth taken after he is killed?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Lincoln's position on blacks at the beginning of the novel and how does that change as the story evolves?

2. What is the Peace Conference and what is the nature of their visit with Lincoln?

3. What perspectives do Chase and Seward hold as the war talk ramps up?

4. What is the nature of Chase's talks with Jay Cooke?

5. Explain the premise of Part 1, Chapters 1-7.

6. What is the mood in Washington as Chapter 15 begins and what is on Seward's mind regarding Lincoln's presidency?

7. What is the issue regarding Lincoln's Kentucky relatives during this time?

8. What is David Herold's first mission as a rebel courier and what is he told to focus on going forward?

9. What are David Herold's surprising views as he watches Lincoln walk to church?

10. How does Vidal describe Lincoln in the early part of the novel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In addition to war on their homeland, people in mid-19th century America were also very vulnerable to the threat of serious illnesses such as typhoid fever. Cite some examples from the book in which people die or are in serious danger of their lives due to diseases that can be better managed today.

Essay Topic 2

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the role of religion in Lincoln's life. Was he public with his faith? How did he deal with those who did not hold his same beliefs? How did his religious beliefs guide him as he guided the country?

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This section contains 805 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample