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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 does Robert plan to not buy?

2. What is the name of the steamboat which takes the group to Albany?

3. Danjel notes that he fully expected God to destroy __________________.

4. Who is Karl's younger brother who is also on the trip?

5. Why will Karl and Kristina not allow their children to eat the food on the ship?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Ulrika hope for a better life in America?

2. Describe the story Robert tells Elin about his and Arvid's adventure in New York and why does he feel the need to embellish?

3. When does the group encounter Anders and why is Fina-Kajsa upset with him?

4. Who are some of the other important characters in the book?

5. Why will Karl and Kristina not allow their children to eat the food on the ship?

6. What are two major obstacles that the immigrants must face as they leave the steamboat at Stillwater?

7. How does Robert's misunderstanding of the English language create a problem between Ulrika and Karl?

8. How does the nature of Kristina's fears change as the journey progresses through the forest?

9. What suffers in Karl and Kristina's marriage due to Karl's ambition?

10. Why does the group feel compelled to take Fina-Kajsa with them on the rest of the journey?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the concept of loneliness as it exhibits in the story. Which of the characters are lonely? Are they all lonely in some way? Explain the loneliness and the methods and attempts to overcome it.

Essay Topic 2

Karl spends some alone time throughout the novel to contemplate his life. What does he think about? What conclusions does he arrive at? Explain why he is in a contemplative mood at this point in time.

Essay Topic 3

Moberg is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony. Briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

(see the answer keys)

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