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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 14, JRR Tolkien as The Old Man.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which of the following is the main focal point of The Silmarillion?
(a) Hobbits.
(b) Elves.
(c) Magic.
(d) Dwarves.

2. What book inspired a schoolboy to write to Tolkien, prompting his response in Letter #114?
(a) The Hobbit.
(b) The Lord of the Rings.
(c) The Silmarillion.
(d) Beowulf: The Monsters and the Critics.

3. How often does Tolkien write to Edith during the time they are separated?
(a) Once a month.
(b) Once a week.
(c) Never.
(d) Once a day.

4. How many improvements does Tolkien indicate he has made to the manuscript for Farmer Giles of Ham?
(a) Only a few.
(b) Numerous.
(c) None.
(d) Too many to count.

5. What aspect of fiction is detailed in Letter #199?
(a) Improvisation.
(b) Publishing.
(c) Inspiration.
(d) Rewriting.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who does Tolkien say are the only people interested in reading his literary works in Letter #115?

2. In Letter #227, how does Tolkien explain the name, Numenor?

3. In Tolkien as "The Old Man," which dictionary does Tolkien reveal he worked for earlier in his life?

4. What does Tolkien think children can become for their parents?

5. According to Tolkien in Letter #246, what would have happened if Gandalf wore the ring?

(see the answer key)

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