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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 is Catherine's cousin's name?

2. How did Ralph's daughter die?

3. What does Ralph expect of Catherine?

4. Where does the carriage end up as Catherine tries to rein in the horses?

5. Catherine recognizes Ralph right away because of his apparent wealth and ___________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Truitt tell Catherine about his life with Emilia and the house he built for her?

2. How does Mrs. Larsen show Catherine that she will not stand by and let anyone else hurt Truitt?

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

4. What internal conflict does a youthful Truitt experience during his days of debauchery in Europe?

5. What do Malloy and Fisk report to Catherine regarding Antonio and to what do they reluctantly agree to do for Catherine?

6. What is the significance of Truitt's mother stabbing him with a needle and then the resulting scar that reminds him of the act?

7. How does Catherine spend her time in St. Louis?

8. What is the significance of the phrases, "It happens," or, "These things happen" which appear throughout the novel?

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

10. Describe the scenario where Catherine observes Antonio in the restaurant.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Truitt and Antonio. How are they different? How are they similar? Why is Catherine so attracted to both of them?

Essay Topic 2

Why did Truitt decide to keep Catherine in spite of the fact that she misrepresented herself? Why did Truitt allow his relationship with Catherine to begin with a lie? What do Truitt's decisions say about his character?

Essay Topic 3

A RELIABLE WIFE is a classic story of good vs. evil. What does that classification entail? Why does this story fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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