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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. Dr. Traylor held Jude captive in what part of his house?

2. Who nastily mimics Jude's walk, shocking everyone in attendance?

3. Who is Kit?

4. Jude leaned up against what object in order to get some sleep in a truck stop parking lot after leaving the group home?

5. Once Jude and Willem decide to pursue a romantic relationship, what action do they take?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way does Willem depend on Jude?

2. In what way does Jude liken Caleb to Brother Luke?

3. What is the sole source of Willem's envy of Jude?

4. Harold reveals that he had first learned about Jude's rituals of self-harm in what manner?

5. What major turning point in the novel occurs within Part V: The Happy Years, in relation to Jude and Willem?

6. How old is Jude the final time he walks completely unassisted?

7. Who is Dr. Traylor?

8. What methods does Jude use in order to hide the signs that he is being abused?

9. How had Brother Luke treated Jude differently than any of the other priests at the monastery had?

10. What objects solidify Jude and Willem's romantic relationship in the eyes of their friends?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the function of Caleb's character within the novel? Discuss the characterization methods used by Yanagihara in depicting Caleb and include in your discussion the reasons that Yanagihara portrays Caleb in these particular ways.

Essay Topic 2

Trace the characterization arc of Jude’s character throughout the novel A Little Life. Discuss whether Jude is a round or flat character and whether Jude is a static or dynamic character.

Essay Topic 3

Explicate the theme of secrecy within A Little Life. What is Yanagihara’s message regarding secrecy and how do you know?

(see the answer keys)

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