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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 happens when Salim introduces Indar to Shoba and Mahesh?

2. In what way is Raymond like Salim's family?

3. What amazes Salim about Raymond?

4. Why do Yvette and Raymond cease being invited to the President's functions?

5. What do Salim and Yvette enjoy at the restaurant?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the changes that took place with Salim's shop while he was away in London.

2. Explain Zabeth's concern for her son Ferdinand.

3. How does Salim begin to compare himself with Mahesh?

4. How does Salim get away from the local situation for a while?

5. What is a clear sign that the President is now taking charge of his own destiny?

6. Explain Salim's obsession with Yvette.

7. Explain who initiates the affair between Salim and Yvette.

8. Describe the beginning of the relationship between Salim and Yvette.

9. How does Salim learn more about Raymond?

10. What indicates the end to the boom times in the town?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Using examples of ethnic food mentioned in the novel, write an essay about how different food is important to different people. Include foods that you would miss if you suddenly were denied access to them. Also discuss to what extent you would try different foods if you visit another country.

Essay Topic 2

Take the old saying, "It takes one to know one," and compare it to the meeting of Indar and Mahesh and his wife, Shoba. In Chapter 6, Metty recognizes a slave girl when she keeps coming to the store looking for him. Write an essay about how people can spot the faults in others that they have in themselves.

Essay Topic 3

Write a paper on the development of Ferdinand from the time he was sixteen-years-old until last seen in the novel as a young government official. Explain how Naipaul makes those changes and give your opinion as to how accurate he is in doing so.

(see the answer keys)

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