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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. How did Lincoln attempt to vanquish death due to his own hand?

3. How does Styron mange to avoid the recommended shock treatment?

4. How does Styron respond to the experimental approach?

5. Styron compares the theories about depression to the theories about what?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Discuss Styron's opinions about the roles biology (genetics, brain chemicals, and influence of meds and alcohol) and environmental factors have in the development of depression. Use passages from the book to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Even though it is nonfiction, a good memoir develops the characters through description, dialogue, and characterization, much as is done in fiction. Describe and give examples of how Styron develops his characters to make them interesting and insure the audience is sympathetic to them. Did he effectively develop his characters? Why or why not?

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