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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does his diary represent his mental state?

2. According to Styron, what is a frequent theme in his novels?

3. What does Styron's psychiatrist do that sends him into a deep depression?

4. What piece of music moves Styron to his breakthrough and hospitalization?

5. What happens to Styron's speech as he becomes more depressed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Styron's comments and thoughts about the stigma associated with mental illness. Include his recommendations for how to overcome that stigma. Give examples from the book showing both his thoughts and his recommendations.

Essay Topic 2

Critics have indicated that Styron left much of his personal journey out of the book. As a memoir of madness, we might expect, and deserve, to read more of Styron's journey through madness. Yet, he didn't include it. Why might this be? Would the book have been better or worse if more detail of the struggle had been included? Do you think leaving out the information was by plan or by accident? Why?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Styron' s quote from his book, "A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted. You should live several lives while reading it." If this statement is indeed true, did Styron fulfill that quote? Explain why or why not. Do you agree with this quote? Give examples pinpointing the point from the book.

(see the answer keys)

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