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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. Who is Milton Loftis' older daughter?

2. Why did Peyton go to the city mentioned in #70?

3. Who is the funeral director?

4. What item is mentioned in the letter to Milton?

5. What type of relationship did Milton have with his father?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are some of the things Milton remembers as he waits for the train bearing Peyton's body?

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

3. How does Helen feel about Dolly and her husband and when does she know there is something going on between Dolly and Milton?

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

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

6. How does LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS begin?

7. Describe Dolly's feelings about Peyton.

8. Describe the activity surrounding Daddy Faith.

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

10. What is significant about the letter that Milton reads while waiting for the train?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of love. Identify at least two themes about love in the book. Then cite an example to support each theme you name.

Essay Topic 2

Describe the overall setting for the novel. Why does Styron use the setting he does? What is the time period of the story? How important is the time period to the attitudes and issues of the characters?

Essay Topic 3

Explain the ongoing conflict between Helen and Peyton. What is the source of the conflict? Why does it perpetuate? Is it really possible for a mother and daughter to hate each other to the degree that Helen and Peyton seem to hate? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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