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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. How does Philip feel when he learns that Ambrose and Rachel have decided to stay in Italy for the summer?

2. Before meeting her, why does Louise suspect that Rachel will be very quick-tempered?

3. What is the weather like when Philip arrives in Italy?

4. Why does Philip not help the men harvest the fields after Ambrose's death?

5. What does Seecombe bring to Rachel's room on her first night that amuses Philip?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Philip find striking about the portrait he sees hanging in Aunt Phoebe's rooms before Rachel comes?

2. Why does Rachel wear only one color of gown?

3. How did Ambrose say that Rachel is related to the Ashley family?

4. Why was Rachel jealous of Philip when Ambrose was alive?

5. Why does Louise say that Philip must have the house cleaned up before Rachel visits?

6. Why does Philip feel ashamed of his feelings when Ambrose wrote to say he was engaged?

7. What does the servant at the villa tell Philip was Ambrose's and Rachel's normal routine in the summer?

8. What reason does Philip give Rachel for not hating her now that he has met her?

9. What makes Philip think that Ambrose may have had a premonition of his death?

10. Why do the servants address Philip differently when he returns home from Italy?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of du Maurier’s central themes is the nature of women. Write an essay discussing the theme. How does the author use Rachel and Louise to demonstrate the nature of women? What idea is the author trying to convey? How does she deliver her message?

Essay Topic 2

During Philip’s illness, he is delusional. Write an essay analyzing the dreams and delusions that Philip has. How do they relate to the story? How do they influence his view of Rachel?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss how Philip’s views of marriage change from the beginning of the book until the end. What causes him to change his mind about getting married? Are his expectations of marriage realistic? What is his opinion of marriage after his time with Rachel has concluded?

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This section contains 692 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample