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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Over whom does Cressida choose Poppas?

2. Why does Julia return to her stateroom?

3. Why do Cressida's sisters believe Poppas remains in Cressida's life?

4. Besides her accompanist, what else is Poppas to Cressida?

5. A second theme apparent in Part 2 might be what?

Short Essay Questions

1. How well does Poppas know and understand Cressida?

2. Why does Cressida go to England and does she accomplish what she wants to there?

3. Does the narrator seem to indicate that Cressida and Poppas understand what the two have given each other?

4. What happens that causes Cressida to become flustered?

5. How does the last paragraphs about the photograph Poppas sends reflect an important theme of this story?

6. Why do you think Cressida would have chosen an accompanist and teacher over her marriage?

7. What makes Carrie speculate about the loyalties of Cressida's traveling companions?

8. How might Cressida's death on the Titanic be symbolic of her life?

9. Discuss the interaction between Horace and Cressida near the end of Part one.

10. Describe the scene when Cressida discovers Bouchalka in a compromising situation. Do you think she was wise to divorce him?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

While Carrie and Cressida are chatting, Cressida says, "'It may mean that I still belong to the future more than to

the past, do you think?'" Knowing that Cressida's future turns out to be a watery grave on the bottom of the ocean, this passage could be considered an example of irony. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Define the word irony and give examples of it from your own life.

2. How does the use of irony enhance this story and literature in general?

3. There is a literary term called "dramatic irony." Define this term and see if you can find any instances of it in this story. Can you name other books or movies where you have encountered a dramatic ironic situation?

Essay Topic 2

For much of Cressida's professional life, she is on top of the game. She is often chosen for a part over other better singers because of her vitality and sureness. In the latter part of her life, her energy flags as does her career. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Why do you think Cressida is more successful when she enjoys her singing as opposed to when she has to sing to earn money when she is married to her last husband?

2. Do personal relationships impact the quality of output by an artist?

3. How can a personal relationship enhance one's artistic production?

4. Is there anything you feel so passionate about that you think a romantic relationship would hinder? Explain your stance.

Essay Topic 3

Cressida is described by various adjectives throughout the story, as well as through her actions. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Name three of Cressida's most outstanding characteristics and give an example of it in the story.

2. Is Cressida presented as a well-rounded character? Why or why not? Give examples to support your stance.

3. Would those characteristics thought to be admirable of Cressida in her era still be considered admirable today? Name the characteristics you consider and explain your stance.

(see the answer keys)

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