View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who comes in while Major Brutt and Thomas are talking?

2. What is the name of Mrs. Heccomb's beach house?

3. What position does Thomas hold at his work?

4. What possession of Portia's does Anna find in chapter 1?

5. With whom does Anna return home in part 1, chapter 2?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Daphne greet Portia?

2. On what nights does Matchett say goodnight to Portia?

3. Portia tells Lilian she wants to confront Eddie about what?

4. What happens when Matchett finds the letter from Eddie under Portia's pillow?

5. Eddie tells Portia that he will always love her, but under what conditions?

6. Why does Portia have to go stay on the coast in spring?

7. What makes Daphne's friends warm up to Portia?

8. Why did Anna and Thomas decide not to have any children?

9. Why is Portia staying with Anna and Thomas?

10. Why does Daphne feel grumpy around Portia when she first meets her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Portia has many weaknesses; her insecurity, her eerie silence, et cetera. Choose one of these weaknesses, and examine how it might have contributed to her poor relationship with Eddie. After the relationship with Eddie came to an end, was this facet of her character improved, or worsened? Why? Be sure to cite specific examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 2

Bowen utilizes many different literary devices throughout the course of the novel. Choose one of these devices, and examine Bowen's usage throughout the novel. How effective is Bowen's employment of this device? Are there any ways in which her usage of it could have been more effective? If so, how? Be sure to cite specific examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 3

Examine the character of Matchett. What significance does she have in the novel as a whole? What is her influence on Portia? What sort of role does she play in Portia's life? Does she know Portia better simply because she knew her parents, or is there more to their relationship? Be sure to cite specific examples from the text to support your thesis.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 671 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample