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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 does Miss Stapleton tell Watson when she first meets him on the moor?

2. Why is Sir Henry saddened at the thought of losing the Barrymores?

3. Who is following Sir Henry and Dr. Mortimer when they leave Holmes and Watson's rooms?

4. What dangerous place on the moor has claimed the lives of several people and animals?

5. What does Holmes have Watson send up to him?

Short Essay Questions

1. Based on Watson's examination of the walking-stick, how does he describe Dr. Mortimer?

2. What is significant about Holmes's deduction that Sir Charles was actually running?

3. Why does Holmes discount the idea that one of Sir Henry's heirs or relatives wants him dead?

4. What is Hugo's evil act, as relayed in the manuscript?

5. Why did Dr. Mortimer advise Sir Charles to go to London?

6. How did Holmes and Watson lose the cab that was following Sir Henry?

7. Why is Holmes disappointed in Dr. Mortimer?

8. What was wrong with Holmes's deductions of Dr. Mortimer?

9. What is the significance of the strange discovery by Sir Charles's body?

10. Who is Selden and why is he significant to everyone?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the purpose of using Watson as the narrator? In your answer, discuss how he is the everyman, whether his responses are meant to mirror those of the reader, and how the plot unfolds through his eyes.

Essay Topic 2

Laura Lyons, Mrs. Stapleton, and Mrs. Barrymore all have contentious relationships with men in their lives (Stapleton and Selden, respectively). Discuss their relationships and how they reflect upon their characters. Additionally, discuss whether the author is making a statement about the dependability of these women or how they are dependent upon the men.

Essay Topic 3

Images of hell, demons, and death are abundant through this novel. Citing specific examples, discuss why these are the prevalent images from this story and how their use builds up an atmosphere of suspense and tension.

(see the answer keys)

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