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

Short Answer Questions

1. Where are Marietta and CJ?

2. Who seems smitten with Marietta?

3. About what does Laura complain?

4. Who visits Essie in jail?

5. What does Birdie Lee say about generosity?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The theme of morality is woven throughout this novel and is an integral part of understanding both the characters and the plot. Answer the following questions and write a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. How would you define morality as it is used in this novel?

2. Do all the characters have the same definition of morality? How do the characters differ in the way they perceive morality and in how they perceive themselves as moral people?

3. How important is it to Essie, Laura and Buddy that they are perceived as moral people? Give examples to illustrate each person's belief. How important is it to each of those characters that they are actually moral people? Is there a discrepancy? Why do you think this is?

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 14, "Enter Buddy," a new character is introduced and one who has great influence on the events of the rest of the book. Choose one of the following questions and write a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. Write an in-depth character analysis of Buddy. Include a physical description, personality traits, and what beliefs motivate him. What do you like and dislike about this character? Why? Give specific examples.

2. Describe the process whereby Buddy gradually takes over much of the way the church is managed. How is he able to do this? What could Essie have done to stop him?

3. How could Buddy be likened to the serpent in the garden of Eden (unlike being compared to Adam as Buddy does so himself)?

4. Do you think Buddy deserves what he receives in the end? Explain fully with examples.

Essay Topic 3

There are a number of themes that run as a thread throughout the novel. Choose one of the following questions and write a well-developed, cohesive essay using examples from the text and your research or personal experience:

1. Trace the development of the redemption theme. Use specific examples to illustrate how this theme is expressed. Analyze the examples and offer an analysis of how this theme impacts the lives of two characters.

2. Trace the development of the theme of addiction. Use specific examples to illustrate how this theme is expressed. Analyze the examples and offer an analysis of the how addiction manifests in character personalities and in the physical setting.

3. Trace the development of the theme of violence. Use specific examples to illustrate how this theme is expressed. Analyze the examples and offer an analysis as to why this theme is important to the novel's plot.

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