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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What flaw does Roy think Memo has?

2. What happens to the Pirates' starting pitcher that pits Roy against a new pitcher?

3. What does Roy wish for when the team gets into a major slump?

4. What does Roy say about Iris's appearance?

5. Who does Roy think is trying to throw the game because he plays so poorly?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Age is a recurring theme in The Natural. Discuss how age enters into both the story and into the probable author's purpose. Use examples from the novel to prove your point. Include how Roy is alike/different at age fifteen and thirty-four.

Essay Topic 2

The Natural is divided into two parts, Pre-Game and Batter Up! Discuss why Malamud divided the story this way. What has occurred in the fifteen years between the two parts? Use examples from the book to support your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Heroism is a recurring theme throughout the novel. We are never given a direct definition of a hero, but are shown what one is and isn't, mostly what one isn't. Using the examples from the book, write a detailed definition of hero as Malamud might have written it. Include examples from the book to support your definition. After defining how Malamud might define a hero, briefly discuss how you would define it. How does it compare/contrast with Malamud's views?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 365 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample