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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 part of Marianne's body does Alan injure during their altercation?

2. What subject does Connell plan to study as a major in college?

3. What story is told frequently at school about Marianne?

4. Marianne tells Connell that she would never take what action?

5. For what transgression does Marianne draw the wrath of Mr. Kerrigan?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Lorraine's appearance and manner.

2. How does Lorraine react to the news that Connell is taking Rachel to the Debs?

3. What event brings Lorraine and Connell to the hospital in April of 2011?

4. How is the theme of self-deception demonstrated within the novel?

5. To what action of Rob's does Connell object and why?

6. What had Connell's sexual experiences been like prior to meeting Marianne?

7. Describe the relationship between Marianne and her brother Alan.

8. Who is Miss Neary?

9. What event occurs just prior to Marianne's decision to quit high school?

10. What comment of Marianne's does Connell repeat to himself and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Rooney’s messages about guilt and responsibility within Normal People. Focus especially on events such as the pain Connell causes Marianne when he asks Rachel to the Debs.

Essay Topic 2

Write a critical essay about Normal People while using the critical power theory lens of feminist theory. Use textual evidence to back up your strong, specific claim regarding the novel's treatment of gender roles, the objectification of women, female empowerment, misogyny's role within society, or any other issues related to feminist theory that can be found in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Trace the characterization arc of Connell’s character throughout the novel Normal People. Discuss whether Connell is a round or flat character and whether Connell is a static or dynamic character.

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