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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Styron do to try and stop the hopeless feelings?

2. What does Styron say about people who survive a depressive episode?

3. What reaction does Styron have to group therapy?

4. What is so frustrating about depression for artists, musicians, and scientists?

5. What does Styron call the condition of the person suffering unrelenting depression?

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

Discuss Styron's thoughts about human resiliency and social report and provide examples from the book. How important are each of these to an individual's recovery and survival?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the possible meaning Camus had when he talked about man's alienation for other men. What does this perspective mean, given his diagnosis of depression? Would he have seen the world the same way if he had not suffered depression? Do you think Styron agreed with him? Why or why not?

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This section contains 318 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample