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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. How many sticks of incense does Wang Lung burn at the temple of the earth after his son is born in Chapter 4?

2. What does Wang Lung purchase to burn on the eve of the new year in Chapter 5?

3. How many young lords are described at the House of Hwang in Chapter 5?

4. Why does Wang Lung go to confront his uncle's wife in Chapter 7?

5. How many eggs does Wang Lung purchase in town in Chapter 4?

Short Essay Questions

1. What actions are taken after O-lan gives birth to a son in Chapter 4? Why?

2. What does Wang Lung vow to do in regards to his land in Chapter 6?

3. What about Wang Lung's uncle's family vexes Wang Lung in Chapter 7?

4. What do Wang Lung and his family witness as they pass the House of Hwang in Chapter 10?

5. How does Wang Lung perceive the city of Kiangsu in Chapter 12?

6. How has the atmosphere of the city changed in Chapter 14? What has led to the changes?

7. How do Wang Lung's circumstances during the winter differ from those of his uncle in Chapter 4?

8. Why did Wang Lung's father choose a slave for Wang Lung's wife?

9. Describe O-lan's actions when she comes to Wang Lung's home. How does Wang Lung perceive his wife?

10. How does Wang Lung perceive his wedding day when he awakens in Chapter 1?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the themes of superstition, faith, and luck in The Good Earth. What symbolism relates to these themes? What color is symbolic for fortune and luck to Wang Lung? How are these themes developed through character and setting in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the meaning of and the role of family in The Good Earth. What does “family” mean to Wang Lung? How do you think the concept of family is different in the novel from within your own culture? Why do you think it is different?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and discuss the Great House of Hwang in The Good Earth. Where is the house located? How is its architecture described? Where do the Old Master and Old Mistress live? Why does Wang Lung visit and revisit the House of Hwang in the novel?

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