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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. Who invites Josephine to Jericho's school function in 1924?

2. How old is Grandma Martha when the narrative begins?

3. How many pounds does the hog weigh that Josephine plans to serve at the wedding?

4. What position does Gladys now inhabit for work?

5. Josephine proclaims it impossible to take what action when it comes to her friend Link?

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss two instances when Ava engages in denial regarding Grandma Martha's behaviors.

2. What is the source of Josephine's anger toward her son Major on the day of Jericho's school function?

3. What is the significance of Gladys's visit to the home of Grandma Martha?

4. Which two emotions does Ava note within Josephine's expression in the photograph?

5. How did Jericho come to stay with Josephine for an extended period of time?

6. What circumstances led to Josephine's mother remaining emotionally distant from Josephine?

7. What aspect of Gladys's health worries Ava, though she tries not to think about it?

8. How does the theme of appearance versus reality appear within Ava's worries about her mother Gladys's health?

9. Which aspects of Ava's life cause her humiliation?

10. For what event is Josephine preparing in 1924 when we first meet her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Sexton's choice to tell the story of The Revisioners using the first person accounts of both Ava and Josephine. What elements of the novel's themes lend themselves to this choice and what are Sexton’s intended effects on the reader?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the instances of irony within the narrative of The Revisioners and analyze Sexton’s purpose for including each instance you discuss.

Essay Topic 3

Read a lengthy interview with Sexton. Write an essay explaining the connection between several of Sexton’s answers and a major theme presented within the text of The Revisioners.

(see the answer keys)

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