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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 old is Suzanne when she moves to Paris?

2. What is the reason the author states he is writing the story?

3. What is the only thing Larry says he is interested in doing?

4. Which is the only main character that Maugham says he still sees frequently?

5. What do the characters think has changed Larry?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Maugham's opinion of Larry?

2. Describe the point of view Maugham uses.

3. Describe Isabal's plan to win back Larry in Paris in Chapter 4.

4. How do things change for Elliott in Chapter 6?

5. How is Larry when he meets Isabel and Gray in Chapter 7?

6. Why does Isabel become so lustful in the car?

7. What is Sophie's tragic story?

8. What reason does Maugham give for Elliott helping Isabel?

9. Describe Gray Maturin

10. What reasons does Isabelle give for staying with Gray?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss whether you think this statement is true or false: "The Razor's Edge foreshadows beat literature and Larry is an early example of an American beatnik." Use two examples from the novel to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Examine the novel's dialogue. How does Maugham's dialogue contribute to the following areas:

1) Character

2) Setting

3) Plot

Essay Topic 3

Look at the novel's characterization. How well drawn do you think Maugham's characters are? Select one of the minor characters such as Mrs.Bradley and discuss how much you know about her background. In what ways does Maugham provide the reader with information about that character?

(see the answer keys)

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