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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 topic does Sprague talk about when he takes Kate riding?

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

3. Why does David Herold regret that Lincoln must die?

4. Salmon P. Chase is visited by Henry D. and _________ Cooke to discuss Lincoln and cabinet posts.

5. What do conspirators Annie Surrat and David Herold call Lincoln?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. How does Vidal open the novel?

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

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

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

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

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

9. Whose arrival is anxiously anticipated in Chapter 14 to provide some security in Washington?

10. What are Chase's thoughts on financing a war in Chapter 17?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Create a brief character study of Mary Todd Lincoln. What does she look like? What are her positive personality traits? What are some of her negative characteristics? What are her hopes and fears? What motivates her at this point in her life?

Essay Topic 2

Myths and legends have always surrounded the stories of the Abraham Lincoln. How does Vidal's book dispel or validate any such predisposed thoughts? Cite examples of Lincoln being viewed a little differently after reading this book.

Essay Topic 3

LINCOLN: A NOVEL is a classic historical fiction story. What does that classification entail? Why does this story fit into this category?

(see the answer keys)

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