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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 impresses Steinbeck about the Oregon coast?

2. Where does Steinbeck head after Bismarck?

3. What crime does the U.S. Customs Officer accuse Steinbeck of committing?

4. What national park does Steinbeck visit while in Montana?

5. What prevents Steinbeck from moving to the answer to #126?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain how the Badlands are a study in opposites.

2. Explain the irony in the scene where Steinbeck and Charley explore a sequoia grove.

3. What does Steinbeck admire most about Texans?

4. What is the irony of the situation Steinbeck encounters at the Canadian border?

5. What is the purpose of Steinbeck's stop in Texas?

6. What has Steinbeck noticed about America so far on his trip?

7. Why does Steinbeck fall in love with Montana?

8. What does Steinbeck encounter in New Orleans that sickens him?

9. Describe Lonesome Harry.

10. What two national attractions does Steinbeck visit before leaving Montana?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Give some examples of humor in the book. Do you think Steinbeck appreciates slapstick humor or wit of a more sophisticated nature? Or both? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Envision the encounter between Steinbeck and the Shakespearean performer. How do you envision the performer to look? How does he behave? Based on Steinbeck's low-key, unassuming nature, do you think Steinbeck enjoys the theatrics of this man? Or is he annoyed by the overuse of drama? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Why does Steinbeck push past the hesitancy he feels about making the trip? Why does he make the trip even though he will be leaving the comforts of home in place of desolation and loneliness? What is it about people like Steinbeck whose curiosity trumps comfort?

(see the answer keys)

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