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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. Why is the social setting so different for Salim?

2. Who is the hostess Salim meets at the party?

3. What does Father Huismans do almost immediately after the threat of war is over?

4. What accompanies Salim's paperwork when he goes to get a consignment from customs?

5. Who does Salim go to see at the lycee?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain how the reader understands that Salim is inexperienced with women.

2. What happens to stop the impending threat of war in the area surrounding the town?

3. What happens when Father Huismans is not at the lycee when Salim goes to return the book?

4. In what way is Father Huismans somewhat naive?

5. Describe the rumors about the new complex being built near the town.

6. How do Salim and Metty begin to react with Ferdinand?

7. What makes the trip longer and more complicated?

8. What is the underlying mood of the villagers and what effect does it have on Ferdinand?

9. How do Salim and his friend, Indar, escape the area where their families live?

10. Explain why Zabeth brings Ferdinand to see Salim.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about Yvette as a classic femme fatale. Detail how she is swept off her feet by romantic visions which she later reduces to romantic stupidity. How does she use Raymond's reputation to get what she wants? State your opinion about whether she ultimately gets what she deserves.

Essay Topic 2

The subject of sex is difficult to write about tastefully. However, in many novels such as A BEND IN THE RIVER, it is essential to the story line. Write an essay on how you think Naipaul handled the subject.

Essay Topic 3

Write a paper about means of travel in the novel. Include the advantages and disadvantages of each. What method of travel in the novel seems most reliable? State your reasons for selecting that means as opposed to the others.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 647 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample