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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. Which of the following did NOT integrate for Avey during the festivities?

2. In the sermon, the preacher reminds the congregation that Jesus said he would rise from the dead ___________ after his death.

3. What is Avey feeling on the boat at Chapter 6 begins?

4. What is the cause of Avey's husband's death?

5. What holiday does Avey recall spending with one of her daughters?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Lebert Joseph become Avey's guide, in a sense, to her reclaiming her life?

2. In whose care had Avey been during the night of the boat trip to the island?

3. Who is Rosalie Parvay and how does Avey meet her?

4. What does Avey feel her family exchanged for its affluence?

5. How does the present day Avey mirror what the little girl Avey was experiencing in the dream?

6. Describe the awakening Avey, who is subconsciously preparing to reclaim her life, experiences.

7. What is the significance of the preacher's sermon in Avey's dream for her life now?

8. How does Avey compare this boat trip, and the old women sitting beside her, to her childhood days in church?

9. What does Avey reminisce about her father and family trips as she is waiting on the dock?

10. What is the sermon that Avey recalls hearing as a little girl?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses some important instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples, making sure to explain what makes each an example of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

Praisesong for the Widow is a classic story of renewal and rebirth. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Praisesong for the Widow is set in the 1970s during the time of the aftermath of the Civil Rights movement in America. What impact does this factor have on the author? What impact does this factor have on any of the other characters? Explain.

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