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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 does Antonio tell Catherine he has lost when he stops at her table?

2. How many years ago did Ralph lose his wife?

3. Why did Ralph's father send him a large amount of money in Italy?

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

5. How does Ralph express his longing for Catherine?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

5. What is the one expectation that Truitt has of Catherine by sending her to St. Louis?

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

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

8. How does Catherine maintain a low profile in St. Louis even though she is excited by being in the city?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Why does Ralph allow himself to be gradually poisoned by Catherine, even after he's aware of what's happening to him? What does this decision say about his character?

Essay Topic 3

The cold weather takes on an almost human persona in this story. What is this literary technique called? Cite examples that support this position.

(see the answer keys)

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