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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Where are Milton and Dolly as they talk over drinks?
(a) The country club.
(b) A cookout.
(c) A bar.
(d) A fundraiser.

2. How long has Milton been having an affair with Dolly at this point?
(a) Two years.
(b) One year.
(c) Ten years.
(d) Six years.

3. On whom did Milton continually lavish attention?
(a) Helen.
(b) Maudie.
(c) Ellea.
(d) Peyton.

4. Who is the funeral director's assistant?
(a) Billings.
(b) Barclay.
(c) Bowman.
(d) Buddy.

5. Who is Mrs. La Farge's son?
(a) Matthew.
(b) Charles.
(c) Stephen.
(d) Evan.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Helen get mad at Milton at the birthday party?

2. What did Milton learn to do in college?

3. How can Dolly best be characterized?

4. When the narrative shifts to Peyton's birthday, what year is it?

5. What does Helen recollect about Milton in this chapter?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the symbolism of the hearse that keeps breaking down on the way to the cemetery?

2. How do Dolly and Helen differ in their views on motherhood?

3. Why is Dolly disheartened by Milton's behavior when they're having drinks at the country club?

4. What are Milton's feelings toward Dolly at this point and why has she accompanied him to the train station?

5. Describe Peyton's interactions with men and what value they have for her.

6. How does Helen use Maudie's physical afflictions as a tool?

7. Who are the main characters in LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS?

8. What are some of Helen's recollections in Chapter 1?

9. Describe the activity surrounding Daddy Faith.

10. How do thoughts of Peyton lead Milton to think about his own father and what does he recall about that relationship?

(see the answer keys)

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