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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. Nick agrees to give permission for Poirot's ____ to enter End House.

2. Where was Nick's wrap made?

3. Who calls the police?

4. Freddie admits that she was not visiting friends as she had claimed. Instead she was in _____ with Lazarus.

5. How long has it been since Nick met Michael?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Poirot's explanation regarding Nick's opportunity to gain from Seton's death? What was the purpose behind Nick's "accidents?"

2. Examine the conversation regarding Michael Seton.

3. Under what circumstances does Poirot meet Nick?

4. Discuss the fireworks display and setting.

5. Explain the relationships between the people Poirot saw lunching with Nick.

6. Who is suggested as being a suitable companion for Nick during this time of crisis?

7. How did Nick come by her unusual moniker?

8. At this point who are the two main suspects in the attempted murder against Nick?

9. What caused Poirot to make a new deduction about Nick's secret? What telltale thing did Nick say to tip off Poirot?

10. How does Poirot begin to separate the suspects? What is Poirot's biggest obstacle at this point?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write your own murder mystery outline based on "Peril at End House." Use Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings as recurring characters in the story. Supply complete storyboards. Include character information, plot, synopsis, etc. Explain your inspiration.

Essay Topic 2

Hercule Poirot is a well known detective. Examine Poirot's experience and credibility. Why do people listen to Poirot over local police? How did Poirot gain his reputation? What does Poirot get out of helping to solve cases? Is there a chance of accolades, awards or monetary compensation? Explain. Why do you think Poirot is reluctant to come out of retirement? What type of job was offered to Poirot shortly before he and Hastings traveled to St. Loo? What would you do in Poirot's shoes - accept the prestigious assignment or stay retired? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

From the beginning of the story, Ellen's husband and son are viewed as strange and perhaps even mentally ill. Explain the father and son's mannerisms that cause the others to think they are unstable. Is either truly mentally ill or unstable? How can one tell? What is the strangest fact about the father and son in your opinion? Explain. Does Poirot relate any of their behaviors to the death of Maggie or the mysterious accidents? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 950 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample