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

Short Answer Questions

1. Where is Kidd finally dropped off?

2. Why is Kidd upset while on the job?

3. What is the first line of the novel Dhalgren by Samuel R. Delany?

4. What is the name of the Bellona newspaper?

5. Did the Richards ever have any intention of paying Kidd?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do the scorpions begin to trust Kidd?

2. What is odd about the people who stay in Bellona after the event?

3. The next day, why does Kidd take a job from Madame Brown?

4. What event does Kidd hope changes Mrs Richards and forces her to see reality?

5. How do the scorpions tempt Kidd?

6. Why does Kidd expect to be given answers concerning his identity from the woman in the cave?

7. Who does Kidd meet in the first chapter of the book?

8. Why does Kidd agree to stay at the Richards' place until Mr. Richards gets home?

9. Does the reader know what is very curious about Bellona?

10. What does Lanya believe in?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

1. How is the rape of June Richards glorified throughout the novel?

2. Why is making her rape public important to the rest of the population in Bellona?

3. What are ways for June Richards to stand up for herself and get help after the rape?

Essay Topic 2

Although Kidd seems to be fearless of people in Bellona, he fears himself and his mind.

1. Describe and discuss why this fear could be more damaging than a fear of physical danger.

2. Why does Kidd break down towards the end of the book? Is it because of the fear he has felt concerning his mind and himself.

Essay Topic 3

As a science fiction writer, symbolism is extremely important to Delany.

What does the supernova symbolize?

Analyze the symbol and discuss its role in the novel.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 636 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample