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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is a street name for the drug that causes people to want to start fires?

2. What does Harry call Lauren's wound?

3. Why does the old man say he wants to join the group's fire?

4. What does Curtis want Lauren to do?

5. Where is the Douglas family headed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Lauren has a dream in the first chapter about flying and facing a major obstacle. Describe this dream, and then explain its symbolism in the context of the novel. What themes does this dream foreshadow?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the Robledo neighborhood that Lauren leaves with the plan for Acorn. Explain the similarities and differences regarding the following:

a. How dissent is handled.

b. The racial/ethnic composition of the community.

c. Security.

d. Food/supplies.

e. People's ability to work.

f. Education.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the Biblical parable of the sower and describe how it is an allegory for what happens in the novel.

a. How does the message of the Parable relate to Lauren's efforts to convert others to her Earthseed philosophy?

b. Why do you think Butler chooses this as the title for the book?

c. In general, how is organized religion portrayed in the lives of characters in the book? Does it seem to have more of a negative or positive influence on people's lives?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 271 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample