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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. How does Merton describe the boys at Ripley Court?

2. How did Merton view his childhood?

3. What author was an enduring influence on Merton?

4. How did Merton's parents foster his love for the monastic life?

5. What keeps Merton from athletic participation?

Short Essay Questions

1. What experiences in England helped Thomas to be more content?

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

3. What does the Baroness do in her life that Merton finds inspiring?

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

5. How does Merton feel about his younger brother?

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

7. What was important for Merton to find in a teacher?

8. How did Merton feel about moving to England?

9. What are some of the internal struggles Merton faces in Part 1, Chapter 3?

10. What is the purpose of the essay in the Epilogue?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As an adult, Merton continues to feel guilty about the way he treated his younger brother when they were children. Describe how this guilt is illustrated in the book. In your opinion, was Merton right to feel guilty?

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's university thesis was called "Nature and Art in William Blake."

1)How does his choice of thesis topic reflect his early childhood experiences?

2) What elements in Blake does Merton find relevant to his spiritual search?

3) How does writing this thesis prepare Merton for his life as a monk?

(see the answer keys)

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