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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. After he recalls killing Mary Dalton, what did Bigger realize he left in plain sight of his mother and his siblings?

2. What happens when Britten backs Bigger against the wall and grabs his collar asking him about the pamphlets Jan Erlone gave him?

3. After Bigger returns to the Dalton home with Mary's trunk, he again goes to check the furnace. Who interrupts him?

4. Where does Bigger first go after leaving his home the morning after Mary's murder?

5. What does Jan Erlone think when he hears Bigger's lie about him?

Short Essay Questions

1. What kind of power did Bigger have over Bessie that she continued to obey his direction even though she knew it was wrong?

2. What was the argument Bigger had with his family as he tried to pack his things the day after Mary's death?

3. The morning after Mary's killing, as Bigger rode the street car on his way back to the Dalton house, he spent a lot of time reflecting on the plight of black people. Explain what Bigger thought would be a solution to their fear and shame.

4. What is the Loeb and Leopold case that gave Bigger the idea to pretend Mary was kidnapped and collect a ransom?

5. Describe Bigger's treatment when he was finally caught.

6. What things made the Daltons begin to worry about their daughter being gone?

7. Although Bigger was very quick with his deceit and able to think on his feet, so to speak, in what way was he becoming his own worst enemy?

8. What was Bigger's fatal mistake in his plan to dispose of Mary's body?

9. In Book two, what does Bigger do at the drug store?

10. What is the one problem Bigger feels he has to do before he will be okay?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay on the way the author, Richard Wright wrote this story, demonstrates both sides of the "nature versus nurture" theory. This is particularly strong when Max testifies to the court about Bigger's life. In the essay describe various parts of the story and how they reinforce both aspects of the theory.

Essay Topic 2

Use of Actual Historical Events:

The author of this novel, Richard Wright, used actual historical events in the novel to bring more life to the story and to aid in his plot. In particular he mentioned the Scottsboro Boys and the Leob and Leopold Case. Write an essay about these cases and how they fit into the novel. Add any additional points used that were from real historical events.

Essay Topic 3

Symbolism of words "White" and "Black"

The author of this novel, Richard Wright, has used the words "Black" and "White" heavily throughout this novel. Write an essay on the symbolism of these words, using several examples of each from the novel. Include whether or not the words influenced you at all as you read it.

(see the answer keys)

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