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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. To what group is Penelope assigned as a volunteer during the war?

2. How valuable are Lawrence Stern's sketches?

3. Who will be staying with Penelope for a little while?

4. Why is Penelope depressed with her volunteer duties?

5. Where does Penelope ask Olivia to go with her on a little trip?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the author reveal which one of Penelope's children is closest to her?

2. What importance do Noel and Nancy place on the Lawrence Stern paintings?

3. How does the author show the respectful relationship between Olivia and Penelope?

4. What is Noel's real purpose for visiting his mother's house?

5. How does Penelope meet Ambrose Keeling?

6. What is life like for Penelope's daughter, Nancy?

7. Which sister--Olivia or Nancy--is the one who is able to get things accomplished?

8. How is Noel like his sister, Nancy?

9. What prompts Penelope to volunteer during the war?

10. What is the irony of Olivia's life as opposed to those of her brother and sister?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Ambrose and Robert. Both men want influence over Penelope but have their hold on her in very different ways. Why are their differences classic examples of conflict in literature? What other similarities and dissimilarities are there between the two characters?

Essay Topic 2

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of disappointment. Identify at least two characters who either embody or experience disappointment then cite an example to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Does Pilcher end the story on a note of hope for Olivia or the continuance of her struggle to come to terms with her flawed relationship with her siblings? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

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This section contains 929 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample