Stoner by John Williams - Test
  • 1. Stoner, a novel by John Williams published in 1963, tells the poignant and often tragic story of William Stoner, an unassuming professor of English at the University of Missouri. The narrative follows Stoner's life from his humble beginnings on a farm in rural Missouri, where he discovers a passion for literature and academia, to his struggles with love, ambition, and the challenges of his profession. Despite his dedication to teaching and his commitment to fostering a love for literature in his students, Stoner faces persistent obstacles: a tumultuous marriage to Edith, who undermines his happiness; a professional rivalry with a colleague that threatens his career; and a general sense of isolation in a world that seems indifferent to his intellectual contributions. The novel captures the quiet dignity of an ordinary man's life, exploring themes of resilience, the search for meaning, and the impact of individual choices against the backdrop of societal expectations. Through its lyrical prose and deep character exploration, Stoner ultimately emerges as a profound meditation on the complexities of the human experience, highlighting the beauty and tragedy embedded in the mundane unfoldings of life.

    Where does William Stoner receive his education?
A) Yale University
B) University of Missouri
C) Harvard University
D) Stanford University
  • 2. Who is Stoner's primary antagonist in the academic environment?
A) Hollis Lomax
B) David Stoner
C) George W. Davis
D) Charles E. Morrow
  • 3. What subject does Stoner teach?
A) Mathematics
B) English
C) Philosophy
D) History
  • 4. What ultimately happens to Stoner's career?
A) He is fired
B) He remains a professor despite challenges
C) He retires early
D) He becomes a university president
  • 5. Who does Stoner have an affair with?
A) Grace
B) Katherine
C) Ellen
D) Joan
  • 6. Who is William Stoner's daughter?
A) Sarah
B) Alice
C) Grace
D) Paula
  • 7. How does the novel 'Stoner' end?
A) With Stoner leaving the university
B) With Stoner dying in battle
C) With Stoner achieving fame
D) With Stoner reflecting on his life
  • 8. What does Stoner struggle with regarding his father?
A) Conflict over career choice
B) Financial support
C) Approval and understanding
D) Education
  • 9. What personal struggle does Stoner face throughout his life?
A) Alcoholism
B) Illness
C) Financial difficulties
D) Loneliness and isolation
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