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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Ralph express his longing for Catherine?
(a) He writes poetry.
(b) He buys her things.
(c) He sings to her.
(d) He gropes her.

2. Who was Ralph's brother?
(a) Andrew.
(b) Michael.
(c) Charles.
(d) Edward.

3. What makes Ralph anxious as he waits for the train?
(a) There is a thunderstorm moving in.
(b) He is feeling nauseous.
(c) The train is late.
(d) People are firing questions at him.

4. Who tends to Ralph during his illness?
(a) Mr. and Mrs. Larsen.
(b) Catherine and the doctor.
(c) Catherine and Mrs. Larsen.
(d) The doctor.

5. Catherine has studied which language?
(a) German.
(b) Russian.
(c) French.
(d) Italian.

Short Answer Questions

1. What had tormented Ralph for his entire life?

2. What does Antonio say is his mother's name?

3. How did Ralph's daughter die?

4. Why is Ralph surprised by Catherine's appearance?

5. What topic does Catherine research in the library in St. Louis?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Ralph described by the emotions he wears on his face as well as his obsession with sex?

2. What significance does the loss of Catherine's jewelry serve symbolically and as an element of foreshadowing?

3. How is the theme of isolation repeated as Catherine takes note of her new surroundings?

4. In what way does Ralph and Catherine's relationship begin with a lie?

5. What is Ralph Truitt doing as the novel begins?

6. Why is the author's description of the weather so critical to the book?

7. What tragedy did Ralph suffer twenty years ago and why does he try to maintain his composure at the train station?

8. What is the significance of the canary that Catherine purchases?

9. What role does deception play in the relationship between Catherine and Truitt?

10. What lie does Catherine tell about about her father as she is tending to Ralph's head wound?

(see the answer keys)

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