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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapters 6 and 7.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What clues does Gary reveal that Styron later learns was probably signs of deep depression?
(a) Constant weepiness.
(b) Shaky hands and weak, quiet voice.
(c) Lack of cohesive thought.
(d) Withdrawal from friendships.

2. What does Styron say about not returning to France?
(a) He believes one day in the near future he will take his own life.
(b) He had such a miserable time in Paris.
(c) He doesn't like to travel.
(d) It cost so much to go and he was nearly broke.

3. What three factors does Styron name as contributing to depression?
(a) Anger, fear, and desolation.
(b) Chemicals in the brain, behavior, and genetics.
(c) Family trouble, job loss, and financial worries.
(d) Early loss, weak character, and no support.

4. How does Camus's essay about a prisoner on death row impact Styron's writing?
(a) It causes him to stop writing for a while.
(b) It gives him some ideas about stories he wants to write.
(c) It leads to his using a narrator on death row to tell the story in "Confessions of Nat Turner."
(d) It causes him to want to write much better than he felt Camus did.

5. What happens before Styron meets with Camus?
(a) Camus leaves on his honeymoon.
(b) Camus gets upset at Styron for his moods.
(c) Camus dies in a car accident.
(d) Camus leaves Paris.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Camus's essay influence Stryon's philosophy of life?

2. What is a common occurrence in people planning suicide?

3. What happens to Gary's ex-wife?

4. What does Styron believe about a depressed colleague's decision to ride with a reckless driver?

5. What happens to Styron's writing as he descends into depression?

(see the answer key)

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