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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 Dolly's son?

2. Who is Milton talking to when Dolly finds him?

3. What drink do Milton and Dolly have at the bar?

4. On whose money was Milton essentially living?

5. Whose body arrives at the train station?

Short Essay Questions

1. How can Dolly best be characterized?

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

3. For what reasons do Helen and Milton blame each other for their collapsing marriage?

4. Explain the narrative structure of LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS.

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

6. Describe the activity surrounding Daddy Faith.

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

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

9. How does the author indicate the importance of Milton's father's words?

10. How does LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS begin?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Even though they are both important in Milton's life, Helen and Dolly are very different. Compare and contrast Helen and Dolly. What similarities do they share? How are they different?

Essay Topic 2

Styron uses more than one instance of irony in the book. Cite at least two examples you can identify in the novel and note why they are examples of irony.

Essay Topic 3

Hate takes on an almost human persona in this story. What is this literary technique called? Cite examples that support this position.

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