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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. Who convinces Cuchulaiin to go for more training?

2. Which of Medb's sons is beheaded by Cuchulainn?

3. Who is Daire?

4. Who is the wise judge that Conchobor consults?

5. What is Fedelm?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Emer's father plan to get rid of Cuchulainn? What is the result?

2. Why does Cuchulainn spare Orlam's charioteer, then kill him later?

3. What are the names of the two pig-keepers in the story and what unusual power do both have?

4. Who makes up Medb and Ailill's great army?

5. Why does Macha curse the men of Ulster?

6. What was the prophecy spoken of Derdriu?

7. What does the owner of the prized possession think about the exchange offer and what is the ultimate result of it?

8. Who is Fedelm? What is unique about her and what message does she share with Medb?

9. How do the scholars learn the tale of the Tain in its entirety?

10. Why do the two pig-keepers in the story begin to compete with each other?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is a static character? What is a dynamic character? Identify two static characters and two dynamic characters from the story. Explain what about each one makes it either static or dynamic.

Essay Topic 2

What is the difference between conflict and crisis in a novel? How are they similar? Also relate the differences and similarities specifically to The Tain.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the characteristics Joseph Campbell outlines for the mythical hero archetype. Which character best fits all of these characteristics and why?

(see the answer keys)

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