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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 does Mr. Biswas read in bed while living at Green Vale?

2. How does Mr. Biswas attempt to collect the money owed to the store?

3. While at school, what talent does Mr. Biswas discover he has?

4. What comment does the midwife make about the newborn Mr. Biswas?

5. What is eventually discovered on Bipti's property after it is sold?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. Describe the first house Mr. Biswas builds for his family.

3. What must Mr. Biswas and Shama do to reopen their shop and house in The Chase?

4. Describe the circumstances surrounding the birth of Shama's first child.

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

6. How does Mr. Biswas attempt to improve the store's financial situation?

7. How does Mr. Biswas express his displeasure with his in-laws and his communal living situation?

8. What explanation does Shama give for the store's financial problems?

9. Why do the Tulsis consider Mr. Biswas a rebel?

10. How does Mr. Biswas' father die?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The entire world changed after World War II. Discuss the influence World War II had on the lives of the characters in the novel. What were the financial and social repercussions for Trinidad? What difficulties does the war impose on the characters? What advantages did the characters gain due to the war?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss how the characters in the novel express their displeasure or anger. What differences exist between the manner in which the men and women vent their frustrations? What cultural influences affect the manner in which the characters express themselves? How does this cultural influence affect the relationships among family members?

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

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