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

Short Answer Questions

1. How long does Arroyo wait in La Luna's house without food?

2. Which of the following items does NOT adorn the statue of Jesus hanging on the cross during the Mexican fiesta?

3. How does the old gringo feel when he thinks back on his time in the Civil War?

4. Why does General Arroyo pull his hat down and his serape up?

5. What is the one room that Arroyo does NOT destroy when he burns the hacienda to the ground?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The role of newspaper reporters has a lot of power in this novel. Explain the role that the written word had first in the old gringo's life during the Civil War, and compare and contrast this impact to the role newspaper journalists had in Harriet's life upon returning home to Mexico.

Essay Topic 2

Upon arriving in Mexico, Harriet sets out on a mission to "civilize" the Mexican people. Explain what methods Harriet adopts in her quest for civilization, and then explain what the outcome of her mission is. What does Harriet learn about the Mexican people in the process?

Essay Topic 3

The old gringo is commonly compared to a ghost or an apparition in the novel. Give a detailed description of what the old gringo looks like, and explain how his looks are commonly misconstrued as being ghostly. Finally, choose one example from the text that highlights whether this ghostly appearance proves to be a benefit or a hindrance in the old man's life.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 316 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample