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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. How does Philip feel about the comedy he takes Mildred to on their first date?

2. What does Griffiths do when he learns Philip is unhappy?

3. Who does Philip move in with while studying art in Paris?

4. How long does Philip care for Mildred before she has the baby?

5. Where does Philip plan to travel when he finishes school?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Philip raise in the ranks in the department store?

2. How does Philip lose all of his money?

3. What news does Norah have when Philip goes to visit her?

4. Why does Mildred come back to Philip's rooms?

5. How does Philip feel about his first taste of medical school?

6. How does William react when he hears that Philip is changing his profession again?

7. Why does Philip want Mildred to meet Griffiths?

8. What surprises Philip when he returns to Blackstable for his aunt's funeral?

9. Where does Philip take Mildred on their first date, and how does he enjoy it?

10. Why does Mildred go to Brighton after she gives birth?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Many different characters in this book are persuaded to do things that they would not have done of their own accord. What are some of these instances, and how does persuasion affect the course of the plot?

Essay Topic 2

Shame and propriety are common themes throughout this book shown a number of times by the women in Philip's life. What are some of the instances where these themes are present, and why are they so important to the characters involved?

Essay Topic 3

This book takes place in a few different settings. Describe some of these settings and how they affected the course of the plot. Why might Maugham have chosen these particular places for this plot to take place?

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