View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What has enhanced Nostromo's reputation?

2. For whom are the town leaders waiting?

3. Who does Nostromo meet in the Custom House?

4. What does Sotillo want to find out from Mitchell?

5. What does Hirsch think has happened to Nostromo and Decoud?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the silver corrupting the characters?

2. What does Decoud write in his letter to his sister?

3. What do the town leaders show is their true worry in Part 3, Chapter 2?

4. In what way can Pedro be seen as a weak character?

5. How does the news of Nostromo and Decoud's supposed deaths prove their peers' real opinion of them?

6. How does Nostromo's role as a servant help him to take the silver?

7. What does Mrs. Viola tell Nostromo on her deathbed?

8. Why is Nostromo so angry in Part 3, Chapter 8?

9. How has the town changed when Mr. Gould arrives back in town?

10. In what does Gould still hold power over Pedro in Part 3, Chapter 7?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Examine the novel's chronological setting.

1) What were the main concerns during the early 20th century. How does Conrad express these concerns?

2) In what ways do you think the novel's meaning would change if it were set in today's society?

Essay Topic 2

Examine South American culture. What influence has it had on the world as a whole? What is Conrad's view on South America? What does this say about Conrad's political views? Does he disagree with foreigners like Charles Gould having so much influence?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the responsibility that comes with power. How much self restraint does, for example, a president have to have? Is it possible for him always to implement his own ideas? Does a strong societal structure create good leaders?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 807 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample