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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 5.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why is it hard for Styron to recognize depression in his friend, Gary?
(a) Because Gary was so good at hiding his feelings.
(b) Because Gary always had a melancholy typical of Europeans.
(c) Because he rarely talked to Gary.
(d) Because he didn't know what depression looked like.

2. What does Styron think of these two people, who were close literary friends?
(a) He doesn't think their writing was very good.
(b) He thinks they should have won the award.
(c) He thinks they both had depression.
(d) He thinks they should move to America where they would be more recognized.

3. What starts Styron's downward spiral into depression?
(a) Trouble with his wife.
(b) He begins to suffer nausea when drinking alcohol, which he had depended upon.
(c) Being isolated in Connecticut in the winter.
(d) The loss of several friends to suicide.

4. After Primo Levi's suicide, what causes Styron to question the common view that those who commit suicide are weak and inept?
(a) Levi was such a good writer.
(b) Levi had survived the Auschwitz and cared for his paralyzed mother.
(c) Levi was involved in so many good causes.
(d) Levi worked out all the time and was very strong.

5. What is the second stage of psychological development in depression?
(a) Suicide.
(b) Euphoria.
(c) Physical pain.
(d) Dependency.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Styron do to try and stop the hopeless feelings?

2. What effect does Styron's op-ed piece have on the general public?

3. During one sleepless episode, what does Styron realize about his illness?

4. According to Styron, what often leads depressed people to commit suicide?

5. Why is Styron not worried about the loss?

(see the answer key)

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