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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. Who supplies White House gossip to those at Thompson's Drug Store?

2. Which female abolition opponent is introduced in Chapter 2?

3. Who is known for drifting off during important discussions?

4. How can Mrs. Lincoln's personality best be described?

5. What is the main event in Part 1, Chapter 8?

Short Essay Questions

1. How are the beginnings of a conspiracy against Lincoln introduced in Chapter 2?

2. What does Lincoln accidentally lose and who will take advantage of this?

3. How does Vidal open the novel?

4. How does the White House respond to Col. Ellsworth's death?

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

6. Why is Lincoln forced to hold Cabinet meetings in the Naval Department?

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

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

9. How is David Herold shaken when he sees the result of a coded message he had carried but had not been able to deliver?

10. What is Lincoln's plan to attack the Confederacy as discussed in Chapter 18?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln had four children. They are Robert, Eddie, Willie and Tad. Eddie died as a small boy and Willie dies while living in the White House. Tad will die a few years later leaving Robert the only living descendant. Describe the Lincolns' relationships with each of their children. Is it evident that one is the favorite? Who is the black sheep? Cite examples.

Essay Topic 2

Vidal uses more than one instance of irony in the book. Cite at least two examples you can identify in the story and note why they are examples of irony.

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?

(see the answer keys)

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