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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Tarwater say he would baptize as soon as Bishop?

2. Why does Rayber hold Bishop in his lap at the park?

3. How does Tarwater describe Bishop's drowning?

4. What does Tarwater say is "better than the Bread of Life"?

5. Who does Rayber say is "basically very bright"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Tarwater's rejection or acceptance of his role as a prophet is central to "The Violent Bear It Away". How are prophets described and defined in the text and how does this influence Tarwater? Also, consider what prophesying requires according to the novel and how that impacts the other characters.

Essay Topic 2

Analyze the religious imagery in this novel. What are the images, what do they symbolize and how do they relate to the characters and plot?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the motif of death in "The Violent Bear It Away". What does each death represent and reflect? How are characters described through death? How does death drive this novel?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 212 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample