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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. How much would Dutch typically profit?

2. What would James Hall do to preach?

3. What was the name of the theater Mazie worked at?

4. What did James Hall believe that he was doing?

5. What are calypsos?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Mitchell interested in the lives of McSorley, O'Connell, and Gordon?

2. How does Ellery's attitude differ from that of other captains?

3. Why did Joe decide to live in New York?

4. What does it mean that Jane has only a limited ability to be happy?

5. What significance does Mr. Cusack place on the full moon?

6. Why is the memory of being hit by a cow significant to Cassell's story?

7. Describe the role of the theme of people being torn by life and heritage in Mitchell's collection of stories.

8. Who is Jane Barnell?

9. What is the message behind the story about Peggy?

10. What message does Mitchell attempt to send about gypsies?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What message about self-acceptance do you think Mitchell tries to send through stories like that of Peggy?

Essay Topic 2

Think about the story about Philippa Schuyler, the musical prodigy with parents who force a strict diet of all raw food on her. Does Mitchell seem more interested in Philippa or her parents? Explain how you know, focusing on specific examples.

Essay Topic 3

How do elements of humor contrast with elements of darkness in Mitchell's collection of short stories? Give three specific examples.

(see the answer keys)

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