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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. The story refers to "The Western Star." What is "The Western Star?"

2. What was the first name of the victim?

3. What did the woman think she saw that caused her to be so frightened?

4. Who joins Poirot in investigating the case?

5. The story about the rook rifle took place in which country?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why were the Robinsons considered to be perfect as the new tenants?

2. Even though special precautions were taken, the bonds were stolen. What happened to the bonds?

3. What two occurrences are scheduled to take place on the same day?

4. What disturbing news does Poirot receive regarding a theft? Who is the main suspect?

5. What event traumatizes Mrs. Maltraverse? What happens shortly after the event takes place?

6. What event causes an uproar during the dinner at Marsdon Manor? Who informs the diners of the disturbance?

7. Who is the woman seen on the street by Poirot and his companion? Why is she known to Poirot?

8. What has the woman so upset about one of her possessions? What are the consequences if Marvell does not comply?

9. What item is in the possession of Lady Yardly and how does it relate to Miss Marvell's item?

10. Why is the new tenant anxious about moving into the cheap flat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "The Adventure of the Egyptian Tomb," Poirot is faced with four deaths at an excavation site, supposedly attributable to a curse on the tomb of King Men-her-Ra. Examine in detail the history of the cursed tombs and various related incidents. When was the first death that was allegedly credited to a curse? Where did it take place? Who was involved? What kinds of mishaps have occurred at the scene of various excavations throughout Egypt? How else could the incidents be explained? How many excavations have supposedly been cursed? Whose tombs were they? Explain the tombs in as much detail as possible along with their inhabitants and final outcome.

Essay Topic 2

The author often uses foreshadowing as a way to give the reader clues to the mystery. More obvious clues are given to the reader by Poirot. Examine the use of foreshadowing and why it is an important tool in writing, particularly when it concerns mysteries. Give examples and other ways in which foreshadowing might be used to help the reader solve the crime.

Essay Topic 3

Jewels are often used in mysteries as an item that is stolen. Explain why it is common for jewels to be the choice items for thieves. What types of jewels are most likely to be stolen and from whom? What jewels were stolen throughout "Poirot Investigates?" Were the jewels loose or were they set in some way? Which is the most common setting for loose jewels? How would a thief hide a jewel? How would one sell a stolen jewel? What is the most unusual jewel in the book? Why is it unusual?

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This section contains 843 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample