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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. What did Helen think of Dolly and her ex-husband?

2. Who is Milton Loftis' younger daughter?

3. How did Dolly always think of Peyton?

4. How old is Peyton on her birthday in Chapter 3?

5. Where does Dolly find Milton?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the narrative structure of LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS.

2. How does Helen use Maudie's physical afflictions as a tool?

3. How does the author indicate the importance of Milton's father's words?

4. Describe Peyton's interactions with men and what value they have for her.

5. What did Peyton and Buster do to Maudie that ends in Helen's slapping Peyton in front of people?

6. What is the symbolism of the hearse that keeps breaking down on the way to the cemetery?

7. What are some of Helen's recollections in Chapter 1?

8. For what reasons do Helen and Milton blame each other for their collapsing marriage?

9. What is the premise of LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS?

10. Why is Dolly disheartened by Milton's behavior when they're having drinks at the country club?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the significance of the funeral hearse that keeps breaking down. What did Styron want the reader to take away from this recurring incident? What symbolism does the hearse have for the main characters? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Hate takes on an almost human persona in this story. What is this literary technique called? Cite examples that support this position.

Essay Topic 3

LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS is a classic story of betrayal. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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