3. 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?

4. Describe Carrie's trip to the docks to hear the reading of the names of the survivors from the Titanic.

5. Why does Cressida wait to travel alone on the Titanic instead of leaving London a week earlier with Horace and Poppas?

6. Discuss the interaction between Horace and Cressida near the end of Part one.

7. How does Poppas's relationship influence Cressida's relationship with her second husband?

8. What could be a possible explanation for the reactions to the engagement by Cressida's family?

9. What happens that causes Cressida to become flustered?

10. Why do you think Cressida would have chosen an accompanist and teacher over her marriage?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the first characters encountered in the story is a man by the name of Miletus Poppas. Poppas plays a significant role in Cressida's life. In fact, Cressida attributes her success solely to this man. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your life experience:

1. Briefly describe both the physical and emotional characteristics of Poppas.

2. Give examples from the story as to whether you believe Poppas was sincere in his love and admiration for Cressida.

3. After Cressida's death, Poppas receives a bequest of $50,000. Do you believe Poppas deserves this bequest? What does it say about the family in that they contest this bequest?

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

Characters are many and varied, especially for a short story. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Which character did you find most likable? Why? Which one is least likable? Why?

2. If you were to pick one character with whom you would form a friendship, who would it be? Why?

3. Which character is most like you? Explain the similarities.

4. Which character is least like you? Explain the similarities.

(see the answer keys)

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