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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 does Ben respond to Scarpetta's numerous accusations?

2. Why was Jennifer Deighton writing to Waddell?

3. Why is Scarpetta not looking forward to her meeting with Grueman after her meeting with the bird expert?

4. While talking to Grimes in the doorway, Scarpetta thinks that she sees ____________________.

5. Where is Scarpetta called to testify about the murders?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Benton not believe that Waddell would be capable of the recent murders?

2. What do Benton and Scarpetta find when they darken Robyn's old house?

3. Why does Scarpetta request that Benton put an article in the paper about the theft of jackets?

4. Why does Jennifer's ex-husband like Scarpetta so much?

5. What question does Grueman have about Scarpetta's finances?

6. Why does Scarpetta head to Robyn's old house to get fingerprints?

7. Why does Waddell's decision to give up appealing his case surprise Scarpetta?

8. What does Scarpetta hypothesize about the killer from the information she learns from the bird expert?

9. How does Scarpetta explain away the incriminating evidence found in Susan's home?

10. Over dinner at the ski lodge, what do Benton and Scarpetta decide is an unlikely hypothesis of Waddell?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Dr. Scarpetta is a highly educated woman in a position of great power. Some might argue, however, that her character is unbelievable. Write a well-written argument discussing whether or not Scarpetta is a believable character and, if so, what three literary devices Cornwell uses to make her believable (or, in contrast, what literary devices Cornwell uses that makes her, in fact, unbelievable).

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast 2 female characters from "Cruel and Unusual" (like Lucy and Scarpetta or Susan and Scarpetta).

Essay Topic 3

Some critics have noted that Benton Wesley is a boring character. Write a well-written argument that discusses whether or not this is a fair criticism. Use specific evidence from the text to support your position.

(see the answer keys)

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