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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. Seward and _____________ emerge as the Cabinet's leading figures.

2. What is the mood in Washington as Chapter 14 begins?

3. How can Lincoln's inaugural parade best be characterized?

4. Which of the following is NOT true about the new Congress?

5. What does Mrs. Lincoln hold regularly?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the Albany Plan and how does it set the stage for political machinations throughout the novel?

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

3. What does Lincoln do regarding Salmon P. Chase on the day after his inauguration that angers Chase?

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

5. With whom does John Hay become infatuated the day after Lincoln's inauguration?

6. What is the purpose of Stephen Douglas' visit to the White House?

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

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

9. Who is Salmon P. Chase and what is his role in Lincoln's White House?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the point of view of the story? Why did Vidal choose to write the story from this perspective? What are the benefits and the limitations to this particular point of view?

Essay Topic 2

Mary Todd Lincoln was a fragile woman who loved her husband and family but had a questionable reputation as a First Lady. What was her influence on her husband? What was her position on slavery? How did she alienate people during her time in the White House? How did she avoid some scandal? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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