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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. Who does Newland discover is visiting Ellen?

2. What is the law firm's position on the divorce?

3. Who has filed a petition for divorce in Chapter 11?

4. Who sends a telegram to Ellen?

5. What does Newland caution Ellen about regarding the divorce?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Newland's sudden change of plans betray his feelings for Ellen?

2. What is the setting for the story and the first chapter in particular?

3. Explain Newland and May's betrothal visits.

4. How does Newland perceive his role as May's future husband?

5. What does Ellen do to create some drama in her relationship with Newland?

6. What legal case is Newland asked to handle in which he feels a conflict of interest?

7. Explain why Newland is both baffled and pleased by a visit to Ellen's home.

8. What does Newland do after the awkward meeting with Ellen at Skuytercliff?

9. On what issue does Newland ask May to violate social norms?

10. How does Newland maintain a flirtation with Ellen?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

During the story, Newland sends flowers to both May and Ellen. What flowers does he send to May? What is their significance? What flowers does he send to Ellen? What is their significance?

Essay Topic 2

Why is Ellen's arrival into the scene so controversial? Why does she make the others so uncomfortable?

Essay Topic 3

What is the van der Lydens' role in New York society? Where do they fit on the class pyramid? Why do they wield so much power?

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