The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
  • 1. The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara is a historical novel that delves into the events surrounding the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War, providing a profound and humanizing perspective on the soldiers involved in one of the war's most significant confrontations. Published in 1974, the book is structured around the four days of battle in July 1863, focusing primarily on key figures such as Confederate General Robert E. Lee, his steadfast lieutenant James Longstreet, and Union Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, who leads the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry. Shaara's narrative vividly explores the internal struggles, moral dilemmas, and leadership challenges faced by these men as they grapple with the harsh realities of warfare, loyalty, and their own personal convictions. Through rich character development and intricate dialogues, the author not only captures the strategic maneuvers and chaos of battle but also paints a poignant picture of the sacrifices made for honor and duty. The novel is celebrated for its ability to evoke empathy for both the Union and Confederate sides, portraying the war not just as a conflict over territory and ideology, but as a tragic loss of human life where valor and despair coexist. The Killer Angels has received critical acclaim and has become a staple in American literature, often used to understand the complexities of war and its impact on history.

    What is the primary setting of 'The Killer Angels'?
A) Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
B) Chancellorsville, Virginia
C) Antietam, Maryland
D) Bull Run, Virginia
  • 2. Which battle is the focus of 'The Killer Angels'?
A) Battle of Gettysburg
B) Battle of Vicksburg
C) Battle of Antietam
D) Battle of Shiloh
  • 3. Who is the author of 'The Killer Angels'?
A) James Michener
B) Stephen Crane
C) Michael Shaara
D) Ken Follett
  • 4. Which character is a Confederate general in 'The Killer Angels'?
A) Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain
B) Robert E. Lee
C) William Tecumseh Sherman
D) George Meade
  • 5. What strategic advantage do the Confederates attempt to gain at Gettysburg?
A) Control of the river
B) High ground
C) Railroads
D) Supply lines
  • 6. How does the novel portray the soldier's perspective on death?
A) As an ignoble end
B) As a tragic event only
C) As a part of their duty
D) As a fear to avoid
  • 7. What significant action does Pickett lead on the last day of battle?
A) Pickett's Charge
B) Retreat order
C) Ambush
D) Flanking maneuver
  • 8. What motivates the Confederate soldiers according to the novel?
A) Love for their families
B) Fear of punishment
C) Desire for fame and glory
D) Sense of honor and duty
  • 9. What does Chamberlain struggle with throughout the novel?
A) His leadership skills
B) His personal ambition
C) His relationship with Lee
D) The morality of war
  • 10. After his defeat, what does Lee resolve?
A) To surrender
B) To continue fighting for the cause
C) To seek peace talks
D) To retreat south immediately
  • 11. Who is the character that represents the Union perspective and is a college professor?
A) Joshua Chamberlain
B) John Buford
C) Winfield Scott
D) George G. Meade
  • 12. What significant event happens on the second day of the battle?
A) The retreat from Gettysburg
B) The charge of Pickett
C) The attack on Little Round Top
D) The defense of Cemetery Hill
  • 13. What role does Buford play in the battle?
A) Infantry officer
B) Supply officer
C) Artillery chief
D) Cavalry commander
  • 14. Which army does General Pickett belong to?
A) Union Army
B) National Army
C) Confederate Army
D) Federal Army
Created with That Quiz — a math test site for students of all grade levels.