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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 was James Jefferson Davis Hall's occupation?

2. How old is Philippa Duke Schuyler?

3. What is the name of the story about Commodore Dutch?

4. Which person was known as Houdini in Harlem?

5. Who is "Professor Sea Gull"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the significance of the rats in the street at night?

2. Which subject is the biggest supporter of the idea that things are always getting worse?

3. Why does Mitchell include a personal anecdote in Cassell's story, and is it an effective technique?

4. Who is Philippa Schuyler?

5. What do you think about "Santa Clause Smith"? Is he benevolent or malicious?

6. Who is Joe Gould?

7. Who is Andrew Zimmer?

8. What kind of relationship did Jane have with her parents?

9. Why did Peggy lie to the little girl?

10. How does technology affect Mr. Flood and Mr. Cusack?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Poole is one character who seems quite sure that everything is always getting worse. Explore this concept in terms of other short stories and subjects in these stories to argue for or against Poole's point. What does Mitchell seem to think about this idea?

Essay Topic 2

In many of Mitchell's stories, characters are torn between heritage and life. Describe at least three examples of ways in which Mitchell develops this theme in more than one story in the collection. Also, explain what Mitchell's intent is in sharing stories with this particular theme.

Essay Topic 3

Is Mitchell a reliable narrator? Why or why not? What are some possible roadblocks for Mitchell to be a reliable narrator?

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