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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. Which character receives a scholarship to the university?

2. In Book 2, Chapter 1, which relative invites Mr. Biswas for a visit?

3. What author does Mr. Biswas favor during the period of time when working conditions at "The Sentinel" become extremely stressful?

4. Why does Mrs. Tulsi evict everyone from the house in Port of Spain?

5. In the beginning of Book 2, Chapter 3, where does the family plan to relocate?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Mr. Biswas find and purchase his dream house?

2. How does Shama assist with the repairs to the new house?

3. How does the Deserving Destitutes Fund cause hardship for Mr. Biswas?

4. Who is the "Scarlet Pimpernel", and why are the islanders looking for him?

5. What factors contribute to the failure of the farm?

6. Describe the conflict that arises between Owad and Anand.

7. What threatens Mr. Biswas' job at the "Trinidad Sentinel"?

8. Describe Shekhar's life as an adult.

9. How does Mrs. Tulsi's return to Arwacas affect the family left in Port of Spain?

10. How does the Biswas family feel about the purchase of their new home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the influence the farming venture at Shorthills had on the characters in the novel. What influenced the Tulsi family to try farming? What factors lead to the farm's demise? How does the failure of the farm affect the characters?

Essay Topic 2

Irony is evident throughout the book. Cite three examples of irony and how it is used to give the reader insight into Mr. Biswas' struggle for freedom and independence. What is Mr. Biswas' attitude towards the ironic events that affect his life? How do they affect his attitude and actions?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the influence that English literature and education has on the characters in the book. Choose three characters and describe how an English-based curriculum influences their attitudes early in life. How does Mr. Biswas' love of English literature affect his personal philosophy throughout his life? What difficulties do he and other characters experience that can be attributed to the influence of English literature and education?

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