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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. Why does Stephen say something has changed between himself and Keiko?

2. What reports does Stephen record about the war in his May 15th, 1938 journal entry?

3. What object does Tomoko ask Matsu to bring to her after she is afflicted with leprosy?

4. How old was Sachi when she became engaged to Kenzo?

5. What did Sachi's father hope would happen after she contracted leprosy?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the tone of Keiko's meeting with Stephen at the shrine?

2. What does Stephen describe as his memories of Keiko?

3. Compare Matsu and Tomoko as teenagers.

4. Who is Sumiko?

5. Why is the fishing knife of great importance to Matsu?

6. How does Sachi incorporate flowers in her garden?

7. Explain how the war is impacting Stephen.

8. How does Sachi change after Michiko's death?

9. Where is the Kerria plant found and what does it mean?

10. What do Stephen's lack of journal entries due to rebuilding in Yamaguchi indicate?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Stephen's budding relationship with Keiko is both exciting and frustrating for him. As their relationship progresses, and Stephen matures, his reaction to Keiko's responses also change. Document the progression of this relationship and explain how Stephen's personal growth and maturity is reflected in his actions and feelings.

Essay Topic 2

Honor is a theme explored in many circumstances and relationships in the Samurai's Garden. In regards to Stephen's parents, their marriage and the way both dealt with the revelation of his father's affair, discuss what it means to be honorable. Give specific examples and explain why you believe that his parents did or did not act honorably in each one. What do you feel they should have, if anything, done differently? What information that you do not have would change your perceptions of them and their actions?

Essay Topic 3

Although Stephen has never met Tomoko, her presence is strongly felt. This is also true of Michiko. Compare and contrast the two characters and analyze their contribution to the story line.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 773 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample