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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 sets Frank apart from the other male Cleary children?

2. Why is Stuart able to leave school?

3. What is Father Ralph's new role since the death of Mary Carson?

4. Which character says that Frank is no better than the one who fathered him?

5. What does Ralph stop just short of explaining to Meggie?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Mary Carson find it more advantageous to remain a widow and not remarry?

2. Describe what Meggie wears to Mary Carson's birthday party.

3. What does Mary Carson's new will say?

4. What is the role of farm women in this time period?

5. What does the family think of Paddy's disappearance?

6. How has Fiona changed after Frank leaves home?

7. Describe Father Ralph's relationship with the Cleary family after Mary's death and the unveiling of her will.

8. Describe the head stockman's house and Drogheda in general?

9. What happens to Meggie's friendship with Teresa Annunzio?

10. What causes disagreements between Frank and Paddy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Who do you think is the most tragic character in the book? Why would you pick this particular character? Give examples from the book that highlight what makes this character particularly tragic.

Essay Topic 2

There are several dissatisfied characters in this book who cannot seem to find contentment. On the other end of the spectrum, are there any characters that are content with their lives? Who are these characters? Describe their situations and their reactions to the events that unfold around them.

Essay Topic 3

Dane is Meggie's pride and joy. However, she cannot bring herself to attend his ordination. Why? What do you think of her decision? Does this put Meggie in the role of a "selfish" mother? Why or why not? How do some of her actions mirror what Fiona did when raising her family? Is her decision justified? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 961 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample