View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Sir Leicester is overwhelmed and suffers from ___________.

2. After a friendly dinner at the Bagnets', Mr. Bucket ___________.

3. Esther's illness has resulted in ___________.

4. Tulkinghorn tells a story that reveals ___________.

5. Sadly, Esther learns that Ada ___________.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The issue of suicide is raised several times in Bleak House. Dickens makes it seem almost a common topic of discussion, if not a common occurrence. Try to find some research that sheds light on the suicide rate in England during the 1800s, and see if you can draw any parallels with the economic condition of the country at that time.

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 22 of Bleak House, Mr. Bucket makes reference to the "fever houses" in London. Research the epidemics of typhus and smallpox that swept through England in the 1800s. What was the statistical impact, how were the diseases treated, and how were they brought under control?

Essay Topic 3

The story of Bleak House includes mistreated, abandoned, ill, homeless, and neglected children. In an essay, address each of these instances. Are they all associated with poverty? What is the point of making unfortunate children such a prominent part of this story?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 263 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample