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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 Ambassador Skrapinov can get no information on Chance's background from the Special Section, what is his reaction?

2. When EE compares Chance to European men, what image does that evoke for him?

3. Why is EE so upset with herself and Chance's reaction to her statements of love?

4. What does Chance say to Mrs. Aubrey when she tells him about all of the people who want interviews with him?

5. What does EE tell Chance before she leaves his room?

Short Essay Questions

1. Sulkin submits a tape of Gardiner's appearance on THIS EVENING for psychiatric, neurological and linguistic analysis. What is discovered?

2. Mr. Rand tells Chance that he admires his peacefulness. What is it about Chance that makes him appear so at ease?

3. In what way does the President incorporate Chance's words on gardening into his speech at the Financial Institute?

4. What was one of Grunmann's concerns about what Gardiner might be up to? Why is it discounted?

5. In Chapter 6 we learn that Skrapinov is also trying get information on Chauncey Gardiner. Why is Skrapinov so intent on getting this information?

6. At this point in Chapter 6, the President is frustrated that none of the top government agencies can find information about a wealthy man living in New York City. What are his thoughts before he turns on the TV and falls asleep?

7. What is the bad joke that Grunmann begins to make when speaking to the President in Chapter 6?

8. In what way does Chance inadvertently stun the journalists interviewing him after the U.N. gala?

9. What assumption does the French depute, Gaufridi, make about Chance's future?

10. At what point in Chapter 5 does EE's character make it clear to the reader that she has a crush on Chance?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

If a person such as Chauncey Gardiner were to exist today, how would he be received by the public and the media? Would people today be just as taken with him as they are in the book? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

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.

Essay Topic 3

What are the political ramifications included in the book? What political era do the scenes with the Soviets evoke? Why? Are the parts of the book involving the Soviets and the President relevant in today's political world? How or how not?

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