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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 were Mary's last words?

2. Why does Thomas fly to New York in Part 4, Chapter 7?

3. To what city is Rudolph headed in Part 4, Chapter 6?

4. On what board does Rudolph serve?

5. Why is Thomas intent on making a living at sea?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the symbolism of the name Thomas chooses for his boat?

2. What is the nature of Gretchen's struggles in Part 3, Chapter 4?

3. What are Gretchen's concerns for Billy at this point in time?

4. What seems to be the next step in Rudolph's career?

5. What important help is Rudolph able to give Thomas in Part 4, Chapter 4?

6. Explain how Thomas' selflessness in protecting Jean shows him to be the most fully evolved character in the book.

7. How does Rudolph' help for Professor Denton come full circle from many years ago?

8. What are the significant changes visible in Mary now?

9. What is ironic about Thomas' love for the sea?

10. What is the sad irony of Mary's life right now?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain how Rudolph's role as protagonist evolves as the plot extends. How does Rudolph change from the hard-working boy in a bakery to a manipulative businessman and politician? What are Rudolph's motivators? Is Rudolph the typical protagonist hero?

Essay Topic 2

Create a character study of Rudolph Jordache. What are his physical characteristics? What are his motivations? What are his fears? What are his dreams? What else can you say about Rudolph?

Essay Topic 3

What is Teddy Boylan's role in the story? What is his background? Why is he interested in Gretchen? What is his relationship with Rudolph? Is he the quintessential "rich man?"

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