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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where is Vivian in this chapter?

2. Who is Mona Grant married to?

3. Why is Cronjager not happy with Marlowe?

4. What is the weather like outside?

5. What does Carmen do when Marlowe takes the gun from her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Chandler's life. In what way do you think his life and personality is reflected in the book?

Essay Topic 2

Look at the structure of the novel:

1) How does Chandler use character and dialogue to drive the narrative.

2) Discuss elements of the narrative structure, including: Exposition, conflict, complication, climax, resolution and conclusion. Do all the elements make for a logical and linear story? How does the story's structure express the novel's themes?

3) Away from the main character examine the way Chandler uses the other characters in the story. When does he introduce and take them away from the story? What effect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 3

Examine Chandler's writing style. How would you describe Chandler's prose style? What kind of vocabulary does he use? Does he use any specific writing techniques? What meaning does Chandler's style give to the story?

(see the answer keys)

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