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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 did Pop allow the 15-year-old Merton to do that really impressed him?

2. What was the name of the school Merton attended in 1929?

3. What error does Merton think Protestants commit?

4. What language is Merton required to learn in England?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Merton want to enter the monastery early?

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

3. How does looking at frescoes in Rome impact Merton?

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

5. How does his father set an example for Merton's later life?

6. How does the death of Merton's mother affect him?

7. What significant event in Merton's monastic life forms part of the Epilogue?

8. What does Merton do while waiting to enter the monastery?

9. What are some examples of Merton's impatience in Part 3, Chapter 1?

10. What does Merton view as a cure for his sinfulness?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Merton had much better school experiences at Ripley Court in England than at the Lycee in France. Using examples from the book, compare and contrast Merton's schooling in the two countries and discuss what impact his family may or may not have had on his school years.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Early on in his spiritual quest Merton believes Catholicism to be mysterious and secretive, and he also believes that Protestants commit many "errors" in their religious observance. Compare and contrast these beliefs and discuss the ways Merton's criticism of these two major religions moves him further on the path toward becoming a monk.

(see the answer keys)

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