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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. In book 1, chapter 14, what makes Gerty realize that Lawrence Selden is not in love with her?

2. What is the result of Gus's violence toward Lily?

3. In book 1, chapter 10, where does Simon Rosedale invite Lily to go?

4. What is Gerty's financial situation at the beginning of the story?

5. In book 1, chapter 9, what is happening at the place Lily goes after her cousin's wedding?

Short Essay Questions

1. In book 1, chapter 11, what does Lily's aunt do after Grace Stepney talks to her about Lily?

2. In book 1, chapter 12, what is the status of the relationship between Lily and Lawrence Selden?

3. What will Lily's marriage to Simon Rosedale mean to Lily's self-perception?

4. What does Gerty Farish think will happen between her and Lawrence Selden because of their friendship for Lily?

5. In book 1, chapter 4, how does the author use the gossip of Judy Trenor?

6. What does Lawrence Selden realize about his relationship with Lily after he finds she has died?

7. In book 2, chapter 9, how does Lawrence Selden react when Lily reprimands him for not visiting her sooner than he did?

8. Why does Lily believe it would be better to marry Simon Rosedale instead of George Dorset?

9. In book 2, chapter 11, what does Lily decide to do when she wakes up the morning after Simon Rosedale makes his offer to her?

10. Why does Lily turn down Carry Fischer's offer to care for the Welly Brys?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write about one of the following concepts as it relates to The House of Mirth. Give examples from the story that explain your choice.

1) love

2) trust

3) morals

4) logic

5) truth

Essay Topic 2

List the main events from The House of Mirth. Could you change the order of the main events or leave out any main events? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Lawrence Selden and Percy Gryce symbolize a variety of ideas throughout The House of Mirth. Explain what each character symbolizes and how the symbolism applies to Lily's character. Give examples from the story.

(see the answer keys)

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