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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 in charge of staffing at Darlington Hall?

2. What does Mr. Faraday call Mr. Stevens when he learns of Mr. Stevens' plans to visit Miss Kenton?

3. What did Mr. Stevens receive from Miss Kenton?

4. What does the car need?

5. What does the elder Mr. Stevens tell Stevens?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Miss Kenton's assertive behavior make Stevens uncomfortable when she enters the butler's pantry one night?

2. What does Stevens learn is the primary point to be accomplished at the conference?

3. What is Stevens' position on whether a man has innate dignity or not.

4. Explain the symbolism of the polished silver.

5. What does Stevens do after finding out that Mr. Cardinal plans to stay the night.

6. What are Stevens' thoughts about being a good butler?

7. Describe Stevens' demeanor and bearing.

8. Why does Miss Kenton not follow through on her threat to resign?

9. Explain the role of flashbacks in the story.

10. What is Miss Kenton's reaction to the dismissal of the Jewish girls?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the technique of symbolism used extensively in this book. Describe some situations that can be considered symbolism. Why are they examples of symbolism? What are the benefits of using symbolism?

Essay Topic 2

What is the action or item that has precipitated Stevens' latest endeavor? How is he affected by this action or item? How is Stevens' response so out of character for his usual rigid demeanor?

Essay Topic 3

Stevens learns his profession from his father who was also a butler. How has the profession defined the relationship between father and son? What good has come of the mutual profession? What sadness has come from it? Explain.

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