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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Richard has now decided to pursue ___________.
(a) A voyage abroad.
(b) A career in dentistry.
(c) A wife and marriage.
(d) A career as a surgeon.

2. What is notable about the children at Tom's All-alone?
(a) Their origins are unknown.
(b) Their parents are Jenny and Liz's husband.
(c) They are talented pianists.
(d) They are all cousins.

3. Bringing flowers to Esther, Caddy implies ___________.
(a) That the nosegay is a hint of spring.
(b) That the flowers are a warning.
(c) That the flowers are a second set from Prince.
(d) That the flowers were left by someone for Esther.

4. Mrs. Rouncewell is ___________.
(a) Mr. Dedlock's housekeeper.
(b) A mother of daughters.
(c) A guest of Tony Jobling.
(d) Mr. Skimpole's housekeeper.

5. Phil Squod has had ___________.
(a) A life of ease.
(b) The life of an average man.
(c) A full and happy life.
(d) An unfortunate life.

Short Answer Questions

1. Nemo is ___________.

2. It becomes obvious to Jo that Lady Dedlock ___________.

3. Richard feels certain that he will ultimately make his fortune ___________.

4. Nemo's death is caused by ___________.

5. Mr. Jarndyce wants Richard to ___________.

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the purpose of the Ghost Walk?

2. Who is Mr. Vholes in this story? What is his role in Richard's life?

3. What makes Lady Dedlock's past such a dreaded secret? Why do they go to such lengths to hide it and why is it threatening to have it revealed by Tulkinghorn?

4. What is discovered at Krook's that may change the course of the Jarndyce suit, and how does it affect the main characters?

5. It seems curious that Dickens' characters tend to go to certain places for no apparent reason, such as Jarndyce agreeing to visit Neckett's place. In any case, a curious theme that seems to resurface is the neglect of children. Discuss your ideas about why Dickens continues to bring up this theme.

6. What is the point of Esther, Ada, and Richard spending a night at the Jellybys'? What does Dickens accomplish with this break in their journey toward Bleak House?

7. Discuss the ending of the story. What is Dickens' intention when he allows Esther to live on happily after all that has taken place?

8. Describe Mrs. Jellyby's compassion for humanity. Is she a rational person?

9. What is Mr. Guppy's interest in revealing the connection between Esther and Lady Dedlock? Why does he persist in getting involved?

10. What foreshadows a relationship between Woodcourt and Esther in this chapter?

(see the answer keys)

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