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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. What is the tone of the writing Lelia leaves for Henry?

2. How long is Lelia in Europe for?

3. Why are the members of John Kwang's staff taught Korean phrases?

4. Does Henry support the idea of adoption?

5. How does Henry get to Flushing?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happened to Lelia while she was in Europe?

2. Describe Janice's disposition and way of dress.

3. What did Henry's father think of Lelia when he was alive?

4. Describe Henry.

5. What does Flushing look like?

6. Describe the tapes Henry listens to.

7. How do Kwang's closest employees treat him?

8. List five of the things Leila wrote on the list she gave to Henry before she left for Europe.

9. Describe Eduardo.

10. Why is Henry's father never given a name?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Lelia is plagued by doubts and problems at the beginning of Native Speaker. She flees to Europe in search of some sort of comfort. While she is there she has an affair with a man she never names. Write an essay that explores the problems Lelia faces at the beginning of the story. What is the state of her relationship with Henry at this point? Why does she hand him the list before she leaves? Why does she not return to Henry after getting back? What other issues does she face?

Essay Topic 2

John Kwang is one of the antagonists of Native Speaker. He is a complex man who on the surface seems perfect. However, as the plot of Native Speaker plays out his facade begins to slowly come apart. Write an essay that delves into the psyche of John Kwang. What kind of man is Kwang? Is he prestigious, strong, and intelligent? Or is he in fact weak and easily subjected to the influence of others? In what ways does his character evolve over the course of the story?

Essay Topic 3

Henry spends a great deal of time remembering things from his childhood. In most cases he recalls something his father did or said. Write an essay that explores Henry's childhood. Did Henry have a "normal" childhood? What are some of the happier moments? What are some of the sadder moments? How old was he when his mother died and what impact did her death have on his life?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 758 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample