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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. Who are two relatives accompanying the famous singer?

2. How does Cressida explain her sister's presence?

3. How might one characterize Poppas?

4. Cressida's relationship with Poppas had potential for _______________.

5. What is the narrator's name?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is an indication that Cressida is not so star struck over her own fame that she pays attention to others, when those who are poor and not well known?

2. What are some facts which Cressida learns about Bouchalka on her Sunday gathering? Is there anything in what Cressida relates to Carrie about Bouchalka that seems to foreshadow the eventual failure of his marriage to Cressida?

3. How does the last paragraphs about the photograph Poppas sends reflect an important theme of this story?

4. Describe how the conversation between Cressida and Carrie lapses into a bit of melancholy.

5. What makes Carrie speculate about the loyalties of Cressida's traveling companions?

6. Describe Cressida's initial impression of the violin player (Bouchalka) at the little restaurant where Carrie and she are eating.

7. When Carrie mentions Cressida's engagement, what is Cressida's response?

8. Who is the main character featured at the opening of the novel and what is her situation?

9. Give some examples that show how generous Cressida is with her time and money to those around her. Is generosity always a good thing?

10. How do Cressida's sisters act about what they receive?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Flashbacks are used several times in this story. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Explain the technique of flashback used in this story.

2. Describe some situations that can be considered flashbacks. Why are they flashbacks?

3. What are the benefits of using flashbacks?

4. How can flashbacks be confusing? Does this happen in this story?

Essay Topic 2

The story opens with Cressida on an ocean voyage and ends with her death also while on an ocean voyage. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Why do you think Ms Cather chooses to frame or book end the story with ocean voyages?

2. Compare and contrast the two ocean voyages and possible symbolic meanings of each.

3. Do you think it appropriate that Cressida dies on the Titanic? Why or Why not?

Essay Topic 3

Cressida is described by various adjectives throughout the story, as well as through her actions. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Name three of Cressida's most outstanding characteristics and give an example of it in the story.

2. Is Cressida presented as a well-rounded character? Why or why not? Give examples to support your stance.

3. Would those characteristics thought to be admirable of Cressida in her era still be considered admirable today? Name the characteristics you consider and explain your stance.

(see the answer keys)

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