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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. Back in Africa, why does Salim feel sympathy for the President?

2. What happens when Salim introduces Indar to Shoba and Mahesh?

3. What has become of Kareisha, Nazruddin's daughter whom Salim feared he might have to marry?

4. What does Indar say his goal is now?

5. Why is Ferdinand leaving the Domain?

Short Essay Questions

1. What encouragement did a woman lecturer give Indar in England?

2. What was the social gaffe that got Yvette excluded for the President's social events?

3. What do Salim and Metty observe from the President's radio broadcast?

4. Although already captivated by Yvette, why does Salim think he might not have become involved with her?

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

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

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

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

9. How does Salim react to Nazruddin's letter from Uganda?

10. What does Indar tell Salim about his plans for his future?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write a paper on the way Naipaul develops the character of Indar. Start with his early optimism about a European education. Discuss why you think he was never really successful. Explain how Naipaul creates Indar as a person who over values his own importance. Trace his arrival at the Domain with his chance meeting of the American and running into Raymond at the American millionaire's house.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Using the Domain and the houses occupied by Indar and Raymond and Yvette, write an essay about the shallowness of appearances. Using Salim's shame at showing his store and flat to Indar, discuss how putting on airs by rich appearances is ultimately not authentic.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 764 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample