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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. How many years did Robbie spend in jail for his crimes, according to the narrative?

2. Where does Briony know the twins are not, as they are too frightened to go there?

3. Who treats the inspectors in a condescending manner?

4. Where does Cecilia lead Robbie when he begins to apologize for the note?

5. According to Briony, "Writing is a form of _____."

Short Essay Questions

1. What has happened to Lola, according to Briony?

2. How does Briony escape Cecelia's questioning?

3. What does Briony think Cecilia is telling Leon when Briony sees them walking together a distance away?

4. Who approaches Cecilia as she is changing for dinner?

5. How does Cecilia react to Robbie's apology to her about the note?

6. What does Leon have to say about England in hot weather?

7. What does Robbie have to say about the letter that he wrote to Cecilia?

8. What is Cecilia doing in response to the attack?

9. When Cecilia puts on the pink dress, who does she think she looks like?

10. How does Briony reveal her true self within this section?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The ending of Atonement is one that can be confusing to the reader, as Briony is the one telling the tale.

Part 1: What are the two endings to the story of Atonement?

Part 2: Which ending seems to be "real" in terms of the storytelling? Which one is more believable?

Part 3: What do you think happens to Cecilia and Robbie at the end of this story?

Essay Topic 2

The men of the story seem to play more of a background role, even though they are an integral part of the action.

Part 1: Describe the role of Leon. Who is he and what does he provide for the story?

Part 2: Describe the character of Paul Marshall. Who is he and what does he bring to the story?

Part 3: Describe the character of Robbie. Who is he and what does he bring to the story?

Essay Topic 3

Briony sticks to her story about Robbie and Lola, even though it's clear to the reader this might not be the right story.

Part 1: What does Briony think happened between Lola and Robbie?

Part 2: What does Lola think happened during this event?

Part 3: Why does Briony stick to her story? What might her motivations be? What might Briony gain from telling the story she tells to the police?

(see the answer keys)

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