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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. Which of the following is NOT something that now shows on Ralph's face?

2. Who was Ralph's brother?

3. Ralph's mother could best be described as ________________________.

4. Who was the daughter born to Ralph and Emilia?

5. What does Catherine buy before returning to her hotel room after meeting with Antonio?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Who are the two main characters in A RELIABLE WIFE?

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

5. What are some of Truitt's thoughts during his delirium, especially related to his domineering mother and his own youthful thoughts of lust?

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

7. What do the secret garden and the Italian house symbolize?

8. What does the author reveal about Catherine's true intentions regarding Truitt?

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

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

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of evil. Identify at least two themes about evil in the book. Then cite an example to support each theme you name.

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

Create a brief character study of Catherine. What does she look like? What are her positive personality traits? What are some of her negative characteristics? What are her hopes and fears? What motivates her--if anything--at this point in her life?

(see the answer keys)

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