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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 important position did Hugh take after the war?

2. Who are Granda Hugh and Gran Margaret?

3. As a child, what did Hugh prefer to do rather than play with the other children?

4. Granda tells tales of __________________ to Jamie.

5. Which of the following does NOT describe Gran's home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe how Famie became a political figure and advocate for a rent strikes movement.

2. Why does Jamie feel the need to protect his mother from his father?

3. What is Jamie doing as Part 1, Chapter 2 begins?

4. Where is Jamie Bawn going with his parents as Part 1, Chapter 1 begins?

5. Describe Gran Margie as Jamie sees her for the first time in ten years.

6. How does the author use weather as a literary device to convey mood?

7. How did Hugh earn the name of "Mr. Housing?"

8. What are Jamie's thoughts as he returns to his childhood home in Scotland on the train?

9. Why does the author provide such detail about Gran Margie's bedroom?

10. Why is Jamie so sad to be leaving Mrs. Drake?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Explain O'Hagan's use of symbolism and imagery in the story as related to the decaying buildings. What do the decaying buildings represent? Which characters are especially affected by the buildings and what do they mean to them?

Essay Topic 3

Explain the role of married women in Scotland in the mid-20th century. Why was Alice not given the freedom to leave her abusive marriage? What precedents was she forced to follow? Explain why her lack of choice affected her marriage, life and child.

(see the answer keys)

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