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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. According to Doc, who will the authorities soon be looking for?

2. Relative to the appointed time, when does Pat arrive at Eggleston's office?

3. What did Lila do for Doc in the past?

4. What was Madeline's assignment in Doc's scheme?

5. What does Pat say that he's known for some time in Chapter 28?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Lila insist on a ride from Pat in Chapter 27?

2. What does the loss of Pat's job mean for Doc?

3. What does Pat discover when he goes to Doc's apartment after the meeting?

4. What would Senator Burkman's loss in the election mean?

5. Why should Henry be troubled?

6. Does Doc have a happy ending?

7. Why isn't Madeline arrested in Chapter 29?

8. What is Doc's plan for Pat?

9. As of Chapter 26, are Pat and Lila in similar situations? Use evidence from the story to support your argument.

10. Does Pat have a happy ending?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are a number of violent episodes in the novel, often including the protagonist. Discuss the concept of violence in "Recoil".

Essay Topic 2

How is the theme of justice utilized in the story? What are some examples in the novel of when justice prevailed? What are some examples of when justice was not served?

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the characters who are morally upstanding and those characters who are morally corrupt.

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