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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 was the name of the school Merton attended in 1929?

2. What political activities does Merton participate in at the university?

3. What revelation did Merton have when attending his first Mass?

4. What did Owen ask Merton to do for him while he was ill?

5. Who came to visit Merton in 1930?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Part 3, Chapter 1, how does the reader know that God is the main focus of Merton's thoughts?

2. What does his teaching job at St. Bonaventure mean to Merton?

3. Describe some of the things that Merton loves about France.

4. What is the significance of Bob Lax in the Epilogue?

5. Why was Merton's participation with student publications so satisfying to him?

6. What are some of the errors Merton finds in the religion of Protestants?

7. What does Merton hope to experience in Olean?

8. Why does Merton attend Zion Church?

9. What is the significance of a book Merton purchased at Scribner's?

10. What prompts Merton to attend his first Mass?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Merton initially decides to join the Franciscans because Dan Walsh recommended the Order, believing it had an "easier" Rule than other religious Orders. Using what you know of Merton's personality from his book, discuss the influence other people have on his decisions. Support your answer with examples.

Essay Topic 2

Merton's relationship with sports is complicated. He participates in them, but doesn't feel that he has the ability to excel. Compare and contrast the benefits and disadvantages Merton receives from playing sports at Columbia. What does his choice of sports tell the reader about his personality?

Essay Topic 3

Merton mentions "love affairs" in his book, but provides few details about the women involved. Why is Merton so secretive about his romantic relationships? How could having more details about the women in his life help the reader have a better understanding of Merton's character?

(see the answer keys)

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