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

Short Answer Questions

1. What happens to persons in physical pain that is not experienced with mental pain?

2. What does Styron say is the most important consideration in depression?

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

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

5. What new approach does Styron's psychiatrist use?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

Styron repeatedly mentions about how much a strong social support of family and friends is important to a person's recovery. He makes a slight mention of his wife as support, and a couple of friends, yet he leaves out but little of the discussion of family support. Was he trying to protect his family? What is the relationship between private and public lives? What kind of support system do you feel he had?

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This section contains 321 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample