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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. When Arturo feels like "Bandini" with Camilla, he:

2. The escapee, Camilla, asks for money from Arturo through:

3. Arturo feels his novel will serve to:

4. What is the guilt and shame that Arturo feels about having been with Vera?

5. When Arturo returns to Camilla's with a nightgown and reading material:

Short Essay Questions

1. Does maturity has much to do with the constant friction between Arturo and Camilla?

2. Do you consider Arturo pathetic for taking Camilla's hat?

3. Why does Arturo return to the Alta Loma hotel after Camilla disappears?

4. Discuss the emotional "dance" that goes on between Arturo and Camilla. Why are they unable to get along?

5. Why does Arturo swear off the Catholic church in this chapter?

6. Arturo seems invigorated by having experienced the earthquake in Long Beach. Why is he so vocal and full of stories about his heroism?

7. Arturo finally gets a big break with the publishing of his new book about Vera. What happens to Camilla?

8. What is the symbolism of milk in this chapter?

9. What purpose does Willie fill in Camilla's life?

10. Arturo is feeling fairly good until Camilla shows up. What emotions does Camilla bring out in Arturo?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Arturo and Camilla create many dramatic moments between them.

1) What role and purpose does Camilla play in Arturo's life?

2) What does Arturo represent in Camilla's life?

3) Why do the two of them fight and insult one another?

Essay Topic 2

Mrs. Hargraves has a small, but important role in Fante's story.

1) What does Mrs. Hargraves symbolize for Arturo?

2) Why does Arturo finally agree with Mrs. Hargraves that the city of Boulder is in Nebraska?

3) Discuss Arturo's decision to force an extra $5 on Mrs. Hargraves when he pays the rent.

Essay Topic 3

Vera Rivken might seem a revolting, sad character, but her role in Arturo's life is large.

1) Discuss Vera's characteristics, and why she would be attracted to Arturo.

2) What did Arturo accomplish with Vera that he had not been able to do otherwise?

3) Discuss Arturo's response to her probable death.

(see the answer keys)

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