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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who does the tall man in Spade's office ask for?

2. What was the falcon made from?

3. Who does Spade have to keep an appointment with in this chapter?

4. Who does Sam send Iva to see?

5. Why does the District attorney think gangsters killed Thursby?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare the characters of Sam Spade and Brigid.

1) In what way are their morals different?

2) What is their relationship to each other?

3) Do you think they are the perfect match?

Essay Topic 2

Hammett lived in San Francisco and worked in a detective agency, adhering to the rule, writers should always write about what they know. Do you think it is obvious that Hammett knows his subject? What difference do you think it makes to the story? Are there any moments where you think Hammett does not portray a character or setting so well? What affect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 3

Look at the novel's characterization. How well drawn do you think Hammett's characters are? Select one of the minor characters such as Dundy and discuss how much you know about his background. In what ways does Hammett provide the reader with information about that character?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 236 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample