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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. How is liquor handled in the barbershop?

2. When Webb and Buddy lived together, what did Webb collect?

3. When Nora's mother visits, how does she die?

4. When does Nora report Buddy missing?

5. When does Buddy step out of the marching band?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Ondaatje use the historical references of Bricktop Jackson, "One-Legged Duffy," Rich, Olivia the Oyster Dancer, and French Emma?

2. How does Webb feel about Buddy's music?

3. Is Buddy predictable? How so?

4. What kind of performer is Buddy?

5. Does Buddy know or care about how his actions affect people?

6. What do Buddy and Webb have in common? In what ways do they approach life similarly?

7. What is the significance of Buddy's hands in Chapter 1?

8. Why does Buddy return to the Brewitts at the end of Chapter 1?

9. How do Buddy and Webb approach life differently?

10. Why do smart customers come to Buddy early?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Bellocq is a complex character whom many hold personally responsible for Buddy's breakdown. He openly admits the influence he has over Buddy. Discuss who Bellocq is to Buddy and the narrative. What is this man meant to represent?

Essay Topic 2

Truth in "Coming Through Slaughter" is at times obscured by characters' egos and self-perception. Discuss what impact the reader's discovery of truth plays on the experience of the book and the characters.

Essay Topic 3

The setting for Buddy's life in New Orleans is surrounded by dilapidation and depravity, although he doesn't necessarily see it this way. Discuss Buddy's evolving perception of his surroundings and what the setting adds to or reflects in the narrative.

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This section contains 702 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample