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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. In "The Killers," what advice does the cook give to Nick about getting involved with the killers?

2. What had caused Guy and his friend's license plate to get dirty in the story "Che Ti Dice La Patria?"

3. What are the two killers names in "The Killers"?

4. In "Fifty Grand," what is the name of the place where Jack has been training for his fights?

5. What kind of portraits do they see in the restaurant in Spezia in the story "Che Ti Dice La Patria?"

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Guy proud to be taken for when he is traveling through Italy in “Che Ti Dice La Patria”?

2. How does the author describe the scenery at the start of “Che Ti Dice La Patria”?

3. What theme is the girl in "Hills Like White Elephants" suggesting by saying that they can never get their life back, once she has had the operation?

4. How does Ole Andreson react when he hears from Nick that two killers are after him?

5. Why is Retana reluctant to have Manuel fight again?

6. What do you think the author is suggesting about honesty in "A Simple Enquiry"?

7. What causes Guy and his friend's car “number” to get dirty, resulting in a facist giving them a ticket?

8. Why does Jack bet against himself in the fight in "Fifty Grand"?

9. Why does the major think that Pinn is lying to him about being corrupt to his girlfriend in "A Single Enquiry"?

10. What does Jack ask Jerry to do with him, to keep him company in "Fifty Grand"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay arguing which of the short stories contains the most literary merit. Describe the story and explain what literary aspects deem the story excellent.

Essay Topic 2

Alcohol plays a vital role in many of the short stories. Itis often used as a coping device, when everything else feels futile. Write an essay explaining how certain characters use alcohol to cope with difficult life circumstances. Include a few healthier alternatives in the essay.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay explaining the author’s development and use of the theme of loneliness and detachment from war. What suggestion does the author make about war and its repercussions? How does he use people to strengthen this theme?

(see the answer keys)

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