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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. Who is the unknown person that may be involved in the murder?

2. Someone comments that it is unusual for Nick to wear ____.

3. What is the girl's unusual nickname?

4. What is the name of the town?

5. What is the name of the woman having lunch with Nick?

Short Essay Questions

1. What questions does Poirot pose to Hastings the next morning?

2. What does Poirot say when he approaches Freddie? What is Freddie's reply?

3. Explain the scene shortly after the discovery of Maggie's body.

4. What is Poirot's reaction to Freddie's story?

5. Explain the opening scene with Poirot and Hastings at the hotel.

6. What confession does Freddie make to Poirot?

7. Discuss Nick Buckley, the woman Poirot meets in the beginning of the story.

8. Explain Poirot's initial thoughts about the people residing at End House.

9. Explain Poirot's interaction with Mrs. Croft.

10. Explain the arrival and introduction of Maggie.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Christie's brilliant use of foreshadowing throughout the book. Give at least three examples of foreshadowing. Give details and the purpose of using the technique. How else could the reader learn about the important information? What other technique might have been used?

Foreshadowing also applies to the characters, not just events. Name at least one instance pertaining to each character in the story. Explain the significance of the method in regards to the character as well as the story. Also point out if Poirot is able to pick up on the clues and how they shape his opinion and investigation.

Essay Topic 2

Examine Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series. How many books are there? Write a character profile of Hercule Poirot. Include his work with the British law enforcement system as well as work as a private detective. Discuss how the character has progressed and evolved throughout the series. Where might Poirot go next? How might Poirot's adventures change in future books? Has Poirot ever failed to solve a case? Has Poirot ever worked with other detectives, e.g, Miss Jane Marple? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Examine Nick's situation at End House. If Nick is broke as she claims, how is it possible to pay the mortgage on End House? How does Nick afford to keep the house staff? Where does Nick get her money? Does Nick work? Is there any type of financial inheritance or trust?

(see the answer keys)

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