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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 is the title of Flannery's second novel?

2. Which of the following does Flannery share information about the editorial process?

3. How did Flannery deal with her illness in her letters?

4. Which god does Flannery write about in this section?

5. Who wins the National Book Award in this section?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the title of this Part and why is it significant?

2. How does Flannery use humor in the incident involving the discovery of body parts?

3. How does Flannery integrate formal and regional writing in her letters?

4. How does Flannery use sarcasm to congratulate a friend on winning a major book award?

5. What pattern begins to emerge in the letters regarding the addressees?

6. Which are the main topics Flannery consistently addresses in her letters?

7. How does Flannery describe her writing process?

8. To which person does Flannery write both the first and last letters in this section?

9. What information does Flannery share about the god, Thor, in one of her letters to John Hawkes?

10. What is unusual about Flannery's friend, Louise's, visit to a doctor for the flu?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Explain the significance of the book's title. What does the editor mean by "The Habit of Being?" Suggest three alternate titles for this book with supporting text for each one.

Essay Topic 3

Flannery O'Connor is famous for her use of terrifying or shocking situations for her characters. Based on what you know about her from her letters, why do you think O'Connor chose shocking and frightening situations for her characters? Are you surprised that this type of characterization could come from such a seemingly demure Southern woman? Explain.

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This section contains 873 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample