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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Styron agrees with what literary guide's belief?
(a) Man's alienation from other men.
(b) All men suffer from deep depression.
(c) Depression never causes suicide.
(d) Depression always leads to suicide.

2. What does Styron call the DSM?
(a) A guide to treatment.
(b) A good manual.
(c) The psychiatrist's bible.
(d) Very inaccurate guide.

3. Though Styron feels alone, who is always with him?
(a) His friend, Gary.
(b) His psychiatrist.
(c) His wife, Rose.
(d) His children.

4. Though Styron admits all professions are susceptible to depression, which profession is the most susceptible?
(a) Doctors.
(b) Artistic types.
(c) School teacherrs.
(d) Lawyers.

5. How old was Styron when he published his first novel?
(a) 35.
(b) 15.
(c) 40.
(d) Mid-20's.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Styron believe about a depressed colleague's decision to ride with a reckless driver?

2. According to Styron, what often leads depressed people to commit suicide?

3. How old was Levi when he committed his suicide?

4. Sir Walter Scott and the Brontes linked what two illnesses interchangeably?

5. What Camus novel has a profound impact on Styron?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Styron say about the causes of depression?

2. How did Styron begin preparing for his death?

3. What did Styron say was his most difficult piece of writing, and how did he describe it?

4. Why was depression such a hard thing for Styron in 1985?

5. For the most part, the people Styron list as suffering from depression are artistic types or philosophers. Discuss why this may be so?

6. What statistics did Styron give about depression and suicide?

7. What role does Styron say friends and family play for the person with depression?

8. What did Styron say about his physical condition after he got released from the hospital?

9. As Styron contemplated and planned for his suicide, what two feelings did he describe?

10. Why did Styron say he believes he lost the award check?

(see the answer keys)

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