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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. What does Kit not know about her son Jack?

2. What is Simon's response when Nan says they should marry?

3. Why is Lilly concerned for Benny?

4. Who is coming to Eve's cottage party after first declining the invitation?

5. What does Jack not know when he arranges for Nan to meet him at the cottage?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do Heather and Benny do when Benny finds her at the cottage?

2. What does Nan do when she is sure she is pregnant?

3. What is the meeting like at the cafe when Kit and Joseph are there?

4. What is Jacks suggestion to Benny when they can go around together in Dublin?

5. What advice does Dr. Johnson give Annabel when Eddie dies and why does he give it?

6. What foils Nan's plans to tell Jack she is pregnant at Eve's cottage?

7. What is the resolution for Benny at the end of the novel?

8. How does Sean manipulate an invitation to the Hogan's house for Christmas?

9. How does Jack show his naivety after being at the cottage three times with Nan?

10. What happens when Fonzie and Clodagh try to enter the bar at Healy Hotel?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on Dealing With Death in Circle of Friends. First, describe how Kit needs Mother Francis' help to deal with the death of her son, Frank; and next, describe how Benny and Annabel deal with Eddie's death by depending on each other. Conclude with the part good friendships play during times of tragedy.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on The Psychology of Sean. First, contrast how Sean ingratiates himself with Eddie but the young Benny and Eve instinctively dislike him; Next, discuss his lack of conscience as he systematically embezzles money from Eddie; Finally, show his opportunistic marriage to Mrs. Healy. Conclude with your evaluation of how Binchy deals with his character.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on Benny as an Unlikely Heroine. (1) Define her strengths and weaknesses. (2) Explain why you think

Maeve Binchy chose a girl like Benny to be the central character of the novel. (3) How do you see Benny as the epitome of a good friend? (4) Discuss Benny as

an overprotected young lady who acquiesces to her parents' rules.

(see the answer keys)

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