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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. From whom do Sundiata's ancestors seek advise at the opening of the story?

2. From which direction does the hunter promise a "great light" will come from?

3. After what event does Sundiata promise to stand up and walk?

4. To which family member is young Djata most attached?

5. How is Kanty related to Fakoli?

Short Essay Questions

1. When Sundiata travels to Niani, what differences does he note in the land now that he has come to power?

2. What demands does Kanty make of the African nations, and what is Dankaran's response?

3. How does Sundiata treat the people of Sosso when he arrives there?

4. How does Sassouma treat Sologon once Dankaran rises to power?

5. What is the reaction when Sogolon goes into labor?

6. According to the griot, what parts of Sundiata's legacy are still standing in present-day Mali?

7. Who were the early kings of Mali?

8. Why are the griots considered "vessels of the past?"

9. How does Djata learn to walk?

10. Who is Manding Bory, and what role does he play in Sundiata'slife?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When Sundiata was born, he was given two formal names and one very important nickname. Briefly explain where each of Sundiata's three names came from, and what part of his personality each name represented. Finally, explain whether or not you think Sundiata's name were a good fit for him, and why.

Essay Topic 2

There are many instances throughout the text when the king is advised not to judge a person by their appearance. First, explain what the relationship between King Maghan and his advisers was, and give three examples of people the king first judged for being weak. If the king had not changed his opinion of these "weak" people, how would the storyline of the book be different?

Essay Topic 3

"Sundiata" is often heralded as changing the face of heroism. Describe what it means to be a hero in Sundiata's day, and what Sundiata did to fulfill this role for his people. Finally, explain whether or not you agree with the assertion that Sundiata is not a typical hero, and why.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 816 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample