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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapters 6 and 7.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is Styron's diary a symbol of?
(a) His writing goals.
(b) His path through depression.
(c) His self-esteem and self-worth.
(d) His hopelessness in the face of depression.

2. What note does Styron want to copy for his goodbye letter?
(a) "I am sorry for any pain I cause. My pain is greater."
(b) "This is the end. Don't mourn."
(c) "No more words; an act. I'll never write again."
(d) "Life is no longer worth it."

3. Where does Styron spend his summers?
(a) In Paris.
(b) In Florida.
(c) On his farm in Connecticut.
(d) At Martha's Vineyard.

4. What does Styron realize in Paris that helps him understand what is happening to him?
(a) The circadian cycle gives him moments of brief respite from the deep depression, giving clarity of thought.
(b) He can't think clearly anymore.
(c) He can't talk to his wife any more.
(d) He begins to cry incessantly and realizes he is depressed.

5. How does Camus's essay about a prisoner on death row impact Styron's writing?
(a) It leads to his using a narrator on death row to tell the story in "Confessions of Nat Turner."
(b) It causes him to stop writing for a while.
(c) It causes him to want to write much better than he felt Camus did.
(d) It gives him some ideas about stories he wants to write.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the old term for depression?

2. Why does Styron say that physical symptoms accompany depression?

3. During one sleepless episode, what does Styron realize about his illness?

4. What does Gary confess to Styron about Camus's depression?

5. How does Camus's essay influence Stryon's philosophy of life?

(see the answer key)

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