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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. To what two cities does Steinbeck often fly?

2. What kind of dog is Charley?

3. Of what is Steinbeck an avid collector?

4. Where was Charley trained?

5. Who wants to accompany Steinbeck on the trip?

Short Essay Questions

1. What urge has Steinbeck felt all his life?

2. Why does Steinbeck ignore his doctors' advice following an illness the previous year?

3. What is Steinbeck's explanation for the junk yards and garbage dumps surrounding the small towns and villages through which he passes?

4. What is Steinbeck's purpose for taking this trip?

5. Describe Charley.

6. Why does Steinbeck decide not to take a human traveling companion?

7. What is ironic about Steinbeck being an American writer?

8. Why are Steinbeck's friends concerned for his safety on the road?

9. What is so depressing about Steinbeck's stop in Bangor?

10. What is John Steinbeck's view on the journey he is about to take?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is Charley's role on the trip? Why does Steinbeck take a dog instead of a human on such an extended journey? What is the relationship between Steinbeck and Charley? Cite some examples that indicate the nature of their friendship.

Essay Topic 2

Steinbeck is amazed by all the garbage dumps and junk yards he sees along the way. What would Steinbeck's perception be if he were to encounter the waste management system in America today? What would he say about the sheer volume of consumption and waste in America today? Would Steinbeck be a vocal recycling proponent?

Essay Topic 3

Describe Lonesome Harry. How does Steinbeck know Lonesome Harry without ever having met the man? Is Steinbeck envious of Lonesome Harry? Or does he feel pity for him? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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