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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 describes Flannery's life in Milledgeville?

2. Who is the publisher with whom Flannery works the most?

3. To which of the following does Flannery NOT send letters in this section?

4. Flannery is excellently educated in regard to which of the following?

5. What does Flannery use for painting?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who writes the introduction for the book and what does she find so intriguing about the letters?

2. Who are some of Flannery's earliest contacts?

3. Why does Flannery say that Catharine Carver's decision to leave Harcourt Brace impacts her life?

4. What information about writing fundamentals does Flannery share in the first letters in this section?

5. The writings will show Flannery's growth in what areas of her life?

6. What does Flannery write about the Ku Klux Klan and racism in a letter in this section?

7. What is Flannery's lifestyle after she leaves Yaddo?

8. How can a photo of Flannery falling with a bottle of liquor in her hand be misconstrued?

9. What is revealed about Flannery's lifestyle in this section?

10. What is the purpose of the Editorial Note?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Flannery is very forthcoming about being an unmarried woman long past the time that most women have settled comfortably in marriages. Do you think Flannery longed for a personal commitment? Or was writing her only true love? What about Flannery's geographical location and personal health inhibited any chances for grand romance in her life? Was this something Flannery could live without or did she simply resign herself to that fact? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

O'Connor uses some instances of flashbacks in the letters in the form of memories and past experiences. Explain what a flashback is and cite at least two instances from the letters making sure to explain what makes each a flashback.

Essay Topic 3

Several of Flannery's stories are classic stories of the search for love. What does that classification entail? Why would this powerful drive seem to elude Flannery in her own life? Was this by design? Or was Flannery simply unlucky in her pursuit of love and romance in her life?

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This section contains 786 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample