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

Short Answer Questions

1. What happens when Merton goes to confession after being told to withdraw his application for the priesthood?

2. What was Merton hoping to gain at his country cottage?

3. Who is Dan Walsh?

4. How does Merton imagine a monastery to be?

5. What does Merton see as his vocation while he is in Olean?

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 experienced times of unhappiness during his childhood. What experiences described in the book show that Merton was sometimes unhappy as a child? Discuss the impact of these childhood experiences on Merton's later life.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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