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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 is the event that ends Arturo's friendship with Hellfrick?

2. Hellfrick helps Arturo:

3. Whose poetry does Vera quote to Arturo?

4. When Arturo does something nice, he is often:

5. How does Arturo try to help Vera?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. What is it that draws Camilla to the abusive Sammy?

4. Discuss what happens to Arturo's relationship with Hellfrick.

5. Discuss Arturo's response to seeing Camilla laughing over his telegram by going dancing. Is his response predictable?

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

7. Why does Arturo send the escaped Camilla money, after all of her unkindness toward him?

8. What is Arturo's intention when he waits in Camilla's car for her?

9. Discuss Arturo's response to his sexual success with Vera.

10. What does the sad character, Vera's presence in this chapter represent to Arturo?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Camilla is a very complex character, whose condition deteriorates over the course of this story.

1) Did Arturo's involvement in her life contribute to her demise?

2) Did her relationship with Arturo lead to her mental breakdown?

3) At what points in the story do we really like Camilla?

Essay Topic 2

Pets are known to have a soothing effect on humans. Discuss Willie and his role in Camilla's life.

1) What did Willie bring to Camilla besides comfort?

2) What was Arturo's intent when he got Willie for Camilla?

3) Why didn't Camilla leave Willie with Sammy where he would be safe?

Essay Topic 3

Arturo has some profound revelations as he searches in vain for Camilla in the vast desert.

1) Discuss what Arturo deduces about nature as it relates to humans.

2) What is the symbolism of searching in the desert for a person like Camilla?

3) How does Arturo make peace with losing Camilla for good? Is it a healthy way to say goodbye to her? Why, or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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