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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. Where do two types of organisms meet and engage in drug deals in Chapter 6?

2. According to William, what is lost during both the using of drugs and the forced rehabilitation of a person?

3. What do the freed addicts raid once they are freed from the psychiatric hospital?

4. Who wrote “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”?

5. The Vigilante is described as though he were located where in Chapter 2?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is symbolized by in Annexia and Freeland?

2. How is Dr. Benway viewed by those around him?

3. How does the narrative style and plot structure change in “Hassan’s Rumpus Room”?

4. What is symbolized by the disease Bang-utot in the narrative?

5. How is the plot structure of “And Start West” different from the plot structures of the other vignettes in the novel?

6. Why do the Sailor and “Fats” Terminal meet in “The Black Meat”? What takes place in their meeting?

7. How is Joselito described? Where is he in the beginning of the chapter named for him?

8. What is the significance of Vigilante’s character in the novel? How does the Vigilante change?

9. What is symbolized by the Professor’s lecture in “Campus of Interzone University”?

10. Why is Willy at Hassan’s Hospital in “Hospital”? How is his situation described?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the character of Joselito and the history of tuberculosis and its treatment. What are the principle two options for Joselito’s medical treatment in the narrative? What are the pros and cons of each form of treatment?

Essay Topic 2

William’s character is based upon the real life and experiences of author William S. Burroughs. How does the book mirror William S. Burroughs' real life experiences, including running from the law, traveling to exotic locations, and becoming involved in underground drug and homosexual cultures?

Essay Topic 3

Consider the place of the medical establishments in the novel, particularly in the case of Dr. Benway and Dr. Schafer. How do they compare? In what ways are Dr. Benway and Dr. Schafer different in their ideals?

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