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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. Why does Hofmiller initially believe he'll never have to marry Edith?

2. How does Edith commit suicide?

3. At the beginning of the section beginning on page 223, Ferencz comes to take Hofmiller to what event?

4. What does Hofmiller want to do about his lie regarding the new treatment?

5. How does Hofmiller react when Edith tries to walk to him, but falls at his feet?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Dr. Condor think that if Hofmiller runs away from his situation with Edith, he will essentially be committing murder?

2. How do Dr. Condor and Hofmiller decide to handle the situation regarding Hofmiller's lies about the new treatment?

3. What is Edith's suggested solution when Hofmiller convinces her that he cannot afford the trip to the sanitarium?

4. Why does Hofmiller initially refuse Kekesfalva's request that he marry Edith in return for Kekesfalva giving him his entire fortune?

5. How does an unforeseen and unrelated political event lead to Edith's suicide?

6. Why does Hofmiller see suicide as the only solution to his problems?

7. How does Edith use the threat of suicide in an attempt to influence Hofmiller?

8. How does Dr. Condor come to the conclusion that Hofmiller is planning to flee rather than facing up to his situation with Edith and her family?

9. Describe the many changes in Edith's mood during the trip to the horse farm.

10. How does Hofmiller react when Edith first suggests that he kiss her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the role that well-meaning intentions play in "Beware of Pity". Include at least three specific instances in which characters act with good intentions, but whose actions go awry and cause serious consequences. Were they right or wrong to act on their original impulses and good intentions?

Essay Topic 2

What role does personal responsibility play in the novel? What responsibilities does Hofmiller take upon himself and what responsibilities does he avoid?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the balance of power between Hofmiller and Kekesfalva. Who holds the power at the beginning of the story? Who holds it at the end? How and why does it shift back and forth throughout the novel?

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This section contains 1,197 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample