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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 are the two terms spoken by the young woman referred to as "Queenie" (5) that the narrator linguistically analyzes?

2. What verb does Sammy use when describing his removal of his apron?

3. Sammy says that once a person uses the cash register enough, "it begins to make a little" (21) what?

4. What does the sign on Lengel's office door read?

5. Who asks Sammy if he has rung up the purchase of the three young women?

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss a possible reason for Lengel's request for Sammy to repeat his words "I quit" (22).

2. How does Updike show the childlike and whimsical nature of Sammy's personality in the story?

3. What unique form of imagery does Updike create to depict Queenie's anger at Lengel's words?

4. In what way do food similes enter the story and for what purpose does Updike use them?

5. Of what crime does Sammy accuse Lengel when he quits?

6. Discuss the socioeconomic status from which Sammy's family stems.

7. What is ironic about Sammy's claim that Lengel is the most nervous person involved?

8. How does Updike demonstrate Sammy's lack of experience with girls and women?

9. In what way does Sammy react to Lengel's mention of policy?

10. Which comment of Lengel's causes the young woman dubbed "Queenie" (5) to get angry rather than embarrassed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the reasons why “A and P” uses a first-person narrator and a plot that unfolds in real time. What elements of the story's themes lend themselves to these choices and what are Updike’s intended effects on the reader?

Essay Topic 2

Analyze Sammy’s fascination with the bodies of the three young women who enter the store in their bathing suits. Conduct an online inquiry that will allow you to understand the context of Updike’s possible messages more fully. Consider the fact that the story was first in 1961 as you conduct your research. Then combine your research with your analysis of the story and answer the prompt.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the instances of irony within the narrative of “A and P” and analyze Updike's purpose for including each instance you discuss.

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