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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why is Mr. Jarndyce unable to end the lawsuit?
(a) He is a party to it.
(b) He is a convicted felon.
(c) He is not really related.
(d) He is not an attorney.

2. Mrs. Jellyby's favorite cause is ___________.
(a) Poverty in Africa.
(b) Hunger in Europe.
(c) Hunger in England.
(d) Poverty in England.

3. The Dedlocks entertain and support several ___________.
(a) Poor cousins.
(b) Disabled people.
(c) Homeless people.
(d) Orphans.

4. Morbury Dedlock's wife will haunt the Dedlock house ___________.
(a) Until Watt and Rosa marry.
(b) Until the Dedlock family leaves the house.
(c) Until the family becomes humble.
(d) Until Mrs. Rouncewell's sons return.

5. Esther is to become a governess to ___________.
(a) Richard.
(b) Ada.
(c) Miss Flite.
(d) Kenge.

Short Answer Questions

1. Tom-all-alone's is a place where ___________.

2. Richard decides to be a lawyer because ___________.

3. Boythorn has property issues with ___________.

4. Jo's money was given to him by a female servant who ___________.

5. Esther's attitude toward Jarndyce is one of ___________.

Short Essay Questions

1. It seems curious that Dickens' characters tend to go to certain places for no apparent reason, such as Jarndyce agreeing to visit Neckett's place. In any case, a curious theme that seems to resurface is the neglect of children. Discuss your ideas about why Dickens continues to bring up this theme.

2. Who is Mr. Vholes in this story? What is his role in Richard's life?

3. What is Lady Dedlock's favorite way to hide? Why does she die?

4. Explain Vholes' philosophy about the English legal system? Is it moral?

5. What is Mr. Guppy's interest in revealing the connection between Esther and Lady Dedlock? Why does he persist in getting involved?

6. How could Esther feel responsible for Mr. Boythorn's sadness? In addition, what does this imply about Esther?

7. With all of his physical and mental deficiencies, why would Grandfather Smallweed make the trip to George's shooting gallery?

8. Richard Carstone has a strange way of seeing money. How does Esther illustrate his propensity to rationalize his spending?

9. Poor Guster, the Snagsbys' maid, is given to seizures. Why does Guster fit in so well with the Snagsbys?

10. What is interesting about Smallweed demanding money for the letters he once had in his possession?

(see the answer keys)

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