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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 choice does Tolkien think each person has?

2. How many Elves does Tolkien think might be able to manage the Ring of Power in Letter #246?

3. Which two characters have a dynamic that Tolkien thinks has a great effect on the events in The Lord of Rings?

4. When is Letter #246, about Gandalf and the Ring, written?

5. What aspect of fiction is detailed in Letter #199?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Tolkien think about Frodo's breakdown at the Cracks of Doom being considered a moral failure?

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

3. What wish does Tolkien have for "well-meaning" editors in Letter #236?

4. In what way does Tolkien think that his story will help both existing parents and future parents?

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

6. As Tolkien explains in his letter to Unwin, why is the work of C.S. Lewis opposed by some?

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

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

9. Who is Tolkien writing to when he predicts what would happen if Gandalf had worn the Ring, and what is his prediction?

10. How does Tolkien disprove the misconception that his success was made overnight in Letter #159?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the difficult situation that Tolkien encounters while having The Lord of the Rings published by Collins, and the events that lead him to work with Unwin & Allen on the trilogy. Also, provide an analysis of the poem, "Errantry," and its significance in the publishing of The Lord of the Rings.

Essay Topic 2

Describe in detail the Stages of History according to Tolkien's explanation of them in his letters. Include the order of his fictional species, the major differences between them, how mankind fits into the development of his world, and Tolkien's reasons for creating each stage a particular way.

Essay Topic 3

Analyze Tolkien's friendship with C.S. Lewis using his own accounts in the letters he writes about Lewis. Also, explain the controversy surrounding Lewis' work, the way Tolkien deals with his death, and the facts that Tolkien includes in remembering Lewis.

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