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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Merton register his draft papers?

2. Where does John Paul die?

3. Who does Merton blame for the war, besides Hitler?

4. What makes Merton unhappy while he is teaching?

5. What does Merton think his motive should be for writing?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Merton speaks of his parents' dislike of "spooky prejudices that devour people." What, in your opinion, are some examples of these "spooky prejudices" and does the rejection of these things by Merton's father and mother make them better or worse as parents? Do you think that Merton carried on the legacy of his parents in his adult life?

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

Merton's mother died during the early formative years of his life. Merton's father was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1929 and died during Merton's adolescence. Using examples from the book, compare and contrast the impact on Merton's life of each of these deaths.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 322 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample