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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. Why does Norman accept the invitation?

2. What does Norman fear about an encounter with Jim?

3. How is Jim built?

4. How does Norman feel about Jim after the affair?

5. What form is the final communication Norman receives from Jim?

Short Essay Questions

1. What question does Jim not ask Norman at dinner?

2. How does Norman come to feel about Jim?

3. Why is Norman especially annoyed when Jim has an affair with a local woman?

4. Who does Norman meet one summer while logging in the woods?

5. How does Norman regain some composure after his trying days with Jim?

6. What does Jim do while the prostitutes are working?

7. What is Jim's complaint about the cooks?

8. How does Norman perceive Jim?

9. How does Norman perceive Jim's letters?

10. What happens when Jim invites Norman to his home for dinner?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why does Norman find Jim Grierson to be such a repugnant character? What is known about Jim and Norman's backgrounds which may indicate the huge conflict in their personalities? Jim is probably intelligent because he reads all the time and he is crafty enough to make extra money, so where is the disconnect for Norman as far as Jim is concerned? Support your answer with examples.

Essay Topic 2

In spite of their differences, Norman and Paul have learned to respect each other. Name some of the qualities and behaviors that differentiate the two brothers. How are the brothers alike? Why does Mrs. Maclean seem to favor Paul over Norman? Is it because Paul is the baby of the family? Or does Mrs. Maclean know that Paul is especially vulnerable?

Essay Topic 3

Explain the symbolism of Norman's ritual of bathing in the river each night after the days spent with Jim. How do you think Norman's days begin? Do you think he can almost feel the grime of Jim's lifestyle rubbing off on him as he spends time with him each day? As far as Norman is concerned, does the river have enough water to wash away the residue of being near Jim Grierson?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 704 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample