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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Rayber think a fishing trip is a good idea?

2. What does Rayber say his "violent self" makes him see Tarwater as?

3. Where does Rayber decide to take Tarwater and Bishop the night after Tarwater left the house?

4. What does Tarwater do to the forked tree by the burned cabin?

5. How do Tarwater's eyes look when he hitches a ride?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Tarwater embarks on a spiritual journey in this novel. Analyze the use of symbolism, roads and cars for example, in the construction of his journey. How does his journey end and what does this mean to mankind?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the relationship between Mason and Tarwater. Consider Mason's influence on Tarwater, Tarwater's acceptance/resistance toward Mason, and how this relationship drives Tarwater's actions/the plot of the novel.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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