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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. In the prologue, why is Mr. Biswas pleased with his wife Shama?

2. What does Sharma use to treat bedbugs?

3. In the prologue, how does Shama attempt to earn money?

4. What happens to the furniture in Mr. Biswas' house while he is ill?

5. Which relatives visit Mr. Biswas while he is ill?

Short Essay Questions

1. What prophecy does the pundit give at Mr. Biswas' birth?

2. Why does Mr. Biswas consider himself a successful man?

3. Why does Pundit Jairam send Mr. Biswas home?

4. What happens to the Biswas children after their father dies?

5. Describe Mr. Biswas' room in Green Vale.

6. How does the Tulsi family care for Mr. Biswas during his illness?

7. Describe the events leading up to the destruction of Savi's dollhouse.

8. What role does Seth play in assisting Mr. Biswas to recover from his illness?

9. How does Mr. Biswas' father die?

10. Describe young Mr. Biswas' second job.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Mr. Biswas suffered from a short period of depression. Describe potential causes for his depression and the effects it has on his character. What factors lead to his depression? How does the depression affect his character? What is the pivotal factor that helps him overcome his depression? What other factors assist him in overcoming his depression?

Essay Topic 2

Symbolism is used throughout the book. Discuss at least three examples of symbolism seen in the novel. What does each symbol represent, and which character(s) does it influence? How are the symbols you chose meant to inspire the reader?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the differences between Eastern and Western standards of success. Which standard does the Tulsi family follow? Which standard does Mr. Biswas follow? How does the conflict with the Tulsi family affect Mr. Biswas' attitude towards success? How might his attitude affect the future of his children and grandchildren?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,043 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample