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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What year does Tolkien write to his publisher with his thoughts on the original cover designs?
(a) 1953.
(b) 1954.
(c) 1951.
(d) 1952.

2. How many Elves does Tolkien think might be able to manage the Ring of Power in Letter #246?
(a) Two.
(b) One.
(c) Three.
(d) None.

3. What is the main subject of Letters #146, 147, and 148?
(a) Rewriting the endings of the books.
(b) Getting the books into their published form.
(c) Getting enough advance copies of the book available.
(d) Rewriting the beginnings of the books.

4. In Tolkien as "The Old Man," which dictionary does Tolkien reveal he worked for earlier in his life?
(a) Scholastic.
(b) American Heritage.
(c) Oxford.
(d) Merriam-Webster.

5. When is Letter #185 written to Christopher and Faith Tolkien?
(a) June 9.
(b) April 19.
(c) July 9.
(d) March 19.

Short Answer Questions

1. What two months are Letters #146, 147, and 148 written in?

2. How does Tolkien think his writing about the joys of fatherhood will be interpreted by people who are parents?

3. Which versions of The Hobbit earn Tolkien an honorary doctorate, as mentioned in Letter #165?

4. In his letter to D. Auden in "The Lord of the Rings Are Published," why does Tolkien think his work is published?

5. Why does Tolkien think his new position at the university will be better received in Letter #182?

Short Essay Questions

1. When is Tolkien's final letter written and how does he attempt to assemble his work before he passes away?

2. Why, when, and how does Tolkien switch from writing with a pen and paper to using a typewriter?

3. Why is Tolkien honored with a degree from the Belgians and how do they refer to him?

4. How did being a father help Tolkien in writing one of his most well known stories, The Hobbit?

5. Which literary device does Tolkien not appreciate and how does he view the intended audience of fairy tales?

6. What is Tolkien's initial reaction when he is warned about his friendship with C.S. Lewis and what happens to change his mind?

7. What issues is Tolkien having with the cover images for The Lord of the Rings books and how does he handle the situation?

8. What is the mystery of creative writing that Tolkien reveals in Letter #199 to Christopher?

9. Which familiar people does Tolkien continue to write to in the "Later Years," and which recipients are new?

10. Who does Tolkien thank in his letter to D. Auden on 1955?

(see the answer keys)

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