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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. How many words does Bendrix vow to write each day?

2. What signals Sarah and Bendrix that Henry has returned home?

3. Which of the following situations involving the investigator is Bendrix NOT concerned about?

4. Why do Sarah and Bendrix choose the Bristol hotel?

5. What does Bendrix think has happened when he and Sarah first hear the air-raid sirens?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Bendrix become suspicious when Sarah uses the word "always" when describing the squeaking stair in her home?

2. What does Parkis say prevents private investigators from becoming famous?

3. Describe Mr. Savage

4. What is the significance of Sarah remembering the scene in Bendrix's book involving onions?

5. What does Bendrix do after reading the letter Parkis got from Sarah's garbage can to prove to himself he is no longer in love with her? Is he successful?

6. Summarize Parkis' letter to Bendrix

7. What ironic fact does Sarah's mother reveal to Bendrix as they having dinner? Why is this ironic?

8. What role does the topic of the body play in this chapter?

9. What is Father Crompton's opinion of Sarah?

10. Describe the setting of this chapter.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Flashbacks are important to the development of the novel. Select two major flashback scenes and discuss:

1) what happens in the flashback

2) how the story is influenced by the presence of this flashback

3) the significance of the flashback in the story

4) why Bendrix chooses to remember this scene.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 2

The inscription at the beginning of the novel is a quote by Leon Bloy which reads "Man has places in his heart which do not yet exist, and into them enters suffering in order that they may have existence."

Discuss the significance of this quote in reference to the novel. How does it fit (or not fit) the novel? Why do you think Graham Greene chose this quote?

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Sarah's character has been described as a modern day saint. Write an essay:

1) agreeing or disagreeing with this characterization

2) proving your position through details from the novel.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

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