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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. Before they part in "Mistakes Were Made (Conclusion)," Richard advises Patty do do what?

2. A few days after Walter returns home in "2004," what does he find on his doorstep?

3. In "2004," Walter wants Richard to host what?

4. The reader is told that Richard's solo album was nominated for what award?

5. When Joey goes for awhile without speaking with Connie, Joey receives an irate call from whom?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Patty's relationship with her children in the years following her father's death.

2. What does Patty do after leaving Richard? What causes her to leave there?

3. What happens when Patty confronts her mother about her basketball years?

4. What happens to Patty after Walter evicts her?

5. In "The Fiend of Athens," what happens when Walter delivers a speech?

6. How does Patty feel upon learning of the death of Lalitha?

7. What is Free Space?

8. What does Patty realize about herself and her siblings?

9. What is the outcome of Patty's relationship with Richard?

10. What questionable business dealings is Joey involved with?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the novel's epigraph, which is taken from The Winter's Tale. How does this quote reflect the novel's plot and themes?

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay analyzing how the author uses characters and behaviors to develop and strengthen the theme of love.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the issue of parenthood in the novel. What makes a good parent? Are there any good parents in the novel? What, in your opinion, is Franzen trying to say about being a parent?

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