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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. Why does Henry refuse to quit his job?

2. Why does Henry become angry with Hoagland?

3. How old is Stew?

4. What is Lelia's occupation?

5. How does Sherrie react when Henry and Kwang show up at her home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why was Helda important to the Kwang family?

2. Why does Kwang start to call Henry "byong-ho" when they are together?

3. Why does Kwang try to get the waitress at the Korean nightclub to service Henry?

4. What does Jack mean by saying that Dennis is not a "doing creature"?

5. Why is Lelia lamb stew important to Henry?

6. What does the Korean restaurant Henry and Kwang go to look like?

7. Describe Lelia's profession.

8. What happens to Eduardo's reputation after he dies?

9. What suspicions does Henry harbor when it comes to Kwang and Sherrie?

10. How do Grace and Pete treat Henry when they see him?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

One of the prevalent themes in Native Speaker is that of immigration. By the end of the novel it is revealed that many of Kwang's supporters are immigrants. As result many of them are exposed and arrested. Write an essay that explores the theme of immigration within the context of the plot. What stance does Henry take on immigration? Does he support the idea of immigrants coming into the country and taking jobs? What are his opinions when it comes to immigrants starting their own businesses in the poorer neighborhoods of New York?

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)

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