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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 old was Enfield's founder when he died?

2. What is the name of the group that Marathe is actually giving information to?

3. What is the name of the magazine that Helen Steeply publishes an article in?

4. How did Hal's father die?

5. In preparation for the woman's arrival with his delivery in Chapter 2, Ken has thrown out which item?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the Ennet House parallel Enfield?

2. Which of the Incandenza brothers is the most stable?

3. Why does the separatist group want the Entertainment?

4. Who is Orin Incandenza?

5. What kind of relationship did Joelle and Orin have?

6. What advice do the older tennis students have for the younger students and what purpose does it serve?

7. What kind of relationship did James seem to have with his sons?

8. What significant event happens in Chapter 5, Year of the Depend Adult Undergarment?

9. What role does Lyle play?

10. What indicates that the medical attache is obsessed with the tape?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What does the title Infinite Jest suggest about the novel? Why do you think Wallace chose this title?

Essay Topic 2

Does each part of Infinite Jest serve a specific purpose? Are there any elements to the story that are pointless? If so, why are these elements still included?

Essay Topic 3

How does Wallace create a dramatic opening sequence in the beginning of Infinite Jest? What is the purpose of opening so dramatically?

(see the answer keys)

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