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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. As Jack encounters Rose the second time, what is the town's attitude towards her?

2. When does the accident occur that changes Jack's feelings about Rose?

3. What made Clara not feel at home in Port William any more?

4. How did the townspeople find out about the change in relationship between Jack and Rose?

5. Where would Jack see her during the second time that he noticed her?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Mat finds that Jack has not shown up for his normal routine?

2. How did the townspeople feel about Rose McInnis and her husband?

3. Why is Mat annoyed with the preacher during Jack's funeral?

4. What was Jack's relationship with Glad like?

5. After Wheeler gives Elton the news about the farm, what does Wheeler do?

6. How does Mat feel about Jack's death?

7. What was Ruth's reaction when she discovered her husband's infidelities?

8. What was the result of Jack's plans for Glad and Clara to take over the farm?

9. What does Margaret Feltner tell Andy before he leaves?

10. What happens to Jack after he has to rent out the farm?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The novel seems to use both exposition and flashbacks in the characters' memories to provide information about the past. Explain the difference between exposition and flashback and provide two examples of each literary element. Then explain whether or not you think this method of providing the reader with information about the past is effective.

Essay Topic 2

Wendell Berry uses symbolism throughout The Memory of Old Jack. There is symbolism in the book title, in the chapter titles, and in the events that Jack remembers. Write an essay that focuses on three specific incidences of symbolism in the novel. Summarize the symbolism elements you have chosen to write about and explain what each element represents.

Essay Topic 3

Most of the novel shows that Jack is fraught with regret about things in this life. As he reflects on his life, it is apparent that he is not particularly happy with it, though perhaps he is content. The climax of the novel involves Jack's death. This combination does not necessarily make for a cheerful uplifting, novel. Write an essay that addresses the entire mood of the novel. Was the mood intended to be depressing? Did you find the mood inspiring? How effective was the mood in proving the author's point?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 888 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample