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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. Mr. Farraday's comment makes Mr. Stevens feel __________________.

2. By what is Stevens conflicted?

3. Who is Mr. Stevens' current employer?

4. Stevens watches some people who are doing what?

5. How can Stevens' personality be described?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the symbolism and foreshadowing in this chapter.

2. How has the butler profession changed since the days of Steven's father's time in the job?

3. On what occasion does Stevens lie about his employment with Lord Darlington?

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

5. What is the significance of the March 23 conference hosted by Lord Darlington?

6. Describe the role that integrity and contributions to society contribute toward making a household a great one.

7. Describe Stevens' behavior and thoughts while his father is ill during the conference.

8. What is the significance of the novel's final scene in which Stevens waits for the lights on the pier to come on?

9. Explain Stevens' personal complications during the time of the conference.

10. Why is the meeting between Stevens and Miss Kenton so poignant?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Stevens must have some idea of Lord Darlington's political tendencies given the nature of his guests during this period in history. How does he justify Lord Darlington's actions? Is Stevens smarter than Lord Darlington gives him credit for? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

Stevens defines dignity and professionalism as the two main characteristics of a good butler. What other qualities are necessary to be a good butler. What type of person could never be a good butler? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Explain what you think Stevens will do with the balance of his life. What will he do when he returns to Darlington Hall? Will he continue on as before or will he make an attempt to carve out a little life for himself, too? Can he serve himself and still serve others? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,214 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample