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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. The trash and poverty makes Philadelphia feel like more of a ______ to Bryson.

2. Why are the waiters in the restaurant in Cooperstown eager for Bryson to leave?

3. Why is Bryson concerned about Detroit?

4. Why did Bryson's father choose to walk through the park at Gettysburg?

5. Where does Bryson find "real New England"?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Bryson have a problem with the Vanderbilts?

2. How does Bryson know how to socially categorize Hal and Lucia?

3. How does Bryson feel after visiting Gettysburg? Why?

4. Are the people of Roanoke, VA amiable to discussing the Melungeons? Why or why not?

5. In Bryson's opinion, how is poverty relative?

6. What does Bryson feel about Philadelphia having the affect of a big city?

7. Why is Bryson concerned about Detroit?

8. What has always been Bryson's reaction to inequality?

9. How is Bryson similar to the pilgrims?

10. What did Bryson realize on a family trip when he witnessed a shooting?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Much of Bryson's observations are steered by his personal opinion rather than his objectivism. Discuss how Bryson's personal objectives cause him to manipulate facts--how does this affect him as a writer and the reader's perception?

Essay Topic 2

Bryson expressed his objective of returning to the land of his youth at the beginning of the book. Discuss Bryson's successes or failures in his objective.

Essay Topic 3

Bryson becomes very afraid in several cities and towns in America, thinking he is in imminent danger. Discuss the source of Bryson's fear, what about his background encourages it, and how it affects his travels and our journey with him.

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This section contains 796 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample