Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay. 

Scaffolded/Short-Answer Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the below bulleted outlines. Cite details from the story over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Tolstoy presents a dichotomous relationship in Part IV between the older and younger generations of the same household. One of the topics discussed in this Part is the division of households, as well as the concern for the behavior of younger generations. Analyze this conversation, addressing the following questions:

• What are some concerns raised in Part IV regarding the separation of the households? (topic sentence)
• Summarize the different opinions of the family regarding the division of the household.
• What are the responses of Brekhunov and Nikita in this discussion? Do their respective opinions imply anything about each man’s status and/or age? Explain.

2. Throughout the story, Brekhunov reflects with satisfaction upon his possession of material goods and wealth. One of his concerns is the inheritance that he will leave to his heir.

• Why is Brekhunov concerned with this inheritance? (topic sentence)
• Select three instances in which Brekhunov speaks of inheritance within the story.