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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. In what way did the Old Man threaten Chance if he didn't do as he was told?

2. Chance basically did two things in the Old Man's house. Those two things were what?

3. The Old Man did not leave something behind before he died. What was it?

4. Who called Chance on the telephone and asked him to come up to the study?

5. When the doctor gets an injection ready to ease Chance's pain, what are Chance's thoughts?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you believe that Chance thinks and feels the way he does as described in Chapter 1?

2. At what point in Chapter 2 does Chance realize things will now change?

3. When Chance goes upstairs to the study in Chapter 2, who is waiting for him there and what do they want?

4. Why is Mr. Rand so impressed at dinner with Chance's description of having a suitable garden?

5. Why does EE change Chance's name when he introduces himself?

6. Why does EE decide to invite Chance to stay at her home?

7. Why does Chance pretend to be able to read the paper that the lawyer gives him to sign?

8. Do you think Chance acted appropriately in response to the Old Man's death in Chapter 1?

9. What do readers learn in Chapter 1 about Chance's father?

10. Why is it that Chance does not appear in any of Mr. Franklin's records?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

EE is in love with Chance. Imagine they become lovers and have a traditional relationship. Would such a relationship last? Why or why not? Who would want to leave the relationship first should it break up? Be sure to include details of both character's personalities, interests and depth of feeling.

Essay Topic 2

One theme of the book may ask the question "what is the point of life?".

A) Has this question been answered for you? Why or why not? How could it have been done better?

B) What is your answer to the point of living? Or is there one?

C) What idea was Kosinski trying to get across? Did he accomplish his goal?

Essay Topic 3

Though religion is never mentioned in the story, there is a spiritual element to the book. Compare and contrast "Being There" to a religious parable.

(see the answer keys)

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