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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. What comment does Zooey make about his fish in the tank?

2. How does Zooey describe Jesus?

3. Zooey tells Franny that she should stop her behavior for what reason?

4. What is Bessie admiring that makes Zooey angry?

5. What has Zooey been saying at every meal for years?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the phone call redeem Zooey?

2. How did Zooey and Franny become freaks in Zooey's eyes?

3. Explain in detail the significance of the Fat Lady.

4. What metaphor does Salinger use to show how badly Franny received what Zooey had to say concerning the Jesus prayer?

5. How would you interpret Franny's dream?

6. How is it ironic that Franny tells Zooey that he is the most unsympathetic person that she has ever known?

7. Once Zooey arrives at Buddy's phone, he puts himself in "the ready position." What is he readying himself for?

8. Why is it so odd that the curtains have been removed from the living room?

9. How does Franny react when Zooey tells her that she is a hypocrite because she too is seeking treasure?

10. Why does Salinger include Bloomberg in the scene between Franny and Zooey?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Salinger continually interrupts the plot with the idea of the apartment being painted. The painting of the apartment is a symbol. In a well-organized essay using examples from the novel, explain what the painting is a symbol of, how it is used and why it is used.

Essay Topic 2

Seymour has taught Franny and Zooey about the Fat Lady. Who is she and what is it that Seymour was teaching them? In a well-written essay, explain the symbolism of the Fat Lady and how she affects the theme of the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Fitting in and being accepted are strong and natural desires of humans. What does Zooey mean when he says that he and Franny are freaks, and how does this idea create conflict for them in their desire to fit in? Explain how this idea affects the work as a whole in a well-organized essay. Avoid plot summary. Use quotes and examples.

(see the answer keys)

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