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This test consists of 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The story takes place as America is in the throes of World War II. Explain the significance of the war on America in general and in Ithaca in particular. What impact did the war have on the choices that the characters make? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Create a brief character study on Mrs. Macauley. What does she look like? What are her positive personality traits? What are some of her negative characteristics? What are her hopes and fears? What motivates her--if anything--at this point in her life?

Essay Topic 3

The role of a melting pot of characters is an important element in this story. Why is the concept of America and patriotism important in the story? What message is Saroyan trying to convey by incorporating people of different ethnicities into the work?

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This section contains 135 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample