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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. For what does Maugham apologize to the reader?

2. To whom does Elliott leave his house, his apartment, his paintings and his furniture?

3. What does Elliott miss while he is bedridden?

4. Of what nationality is Edna?

5. Why does Maugham say Isabel kills Sophie?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Larry say he has had trouble believing in Christianity?

2. In what way does Maugham criticize the church?

3. How does Maugham obtain an invitation?

4. How does Suzanne become a successful artist?

5. What is Maugham's opinion of Isabel's character?

6. Do you think there is anything suspicious about the incident with the vodka?

7. What does the Indian say is significant about the sculptures in the cave?

8. How does Sophie give in to temptation?

9. In what way does Sophie embody the book's theme of good and evil?

10. What does Maugham imagine about Isabel and Gray's life in Texas?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Look at the novel's characterization. How well drawn do you think Maugham's characters are? Select one of the minor characters such as Mrs.Bradley and discuss how much you know about her background. In what ways does Maugham provide the reader with information about that character?

Essay Topic 2

The Razor's Edge is a famous book which has greatly influenced modern literature. Choose a book written after The Razor's Edge that you think was influenced by the novel and discuss there similarities in terms of

a) plot

b) character

c) themes

Essay Topic 3

Examine the novel's chronological setting.

1) What were the main concerns during the 1920's. How does Maugham express these concerns?

2) In what ways do you think the novel's meaning would change if it were set in today's society?

(see the answer keys)

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