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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. Where does Stevens go for help?

3. What does Stevens fear will belie his true feelings about Lord Darlington?

4. Stevens' behavior indicates that he is haunted by ______________________.

5. What question does Stevens ponder as he drives?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the scene at the pond indicate Stevens' state of mind during his road trip?

2. Describe what happens when Stevens parks the car to view an unfamiliar spot on his trip.

3. Why does Stevens return again and again in his mind to his reluctance to admit to being employed by Lord Darlington?

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

5. When does Stevens first get a glimpse of Lord Darlington's Nazi sympathies?

6. Explain the symbolism of the polished silver.

7. How has the elder Mr. Stevens affected Stevens and the relationship the two ultimately share?

8. In addition to his mental state, the pond scene also symbolizes Stevens' life as a whole. Explain.

9. Describe Miss Kenton's situation.

10. What occasion does Stevens recall where the silver altered the apprehensive nature of a guest?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the symbolism of Stevens' sighting of the Giffen Silver Polish sign. What does silver polish signify for him? What did properly polished silver represent to important households? To Stevens?

Essay Topic 2

Explain why the resignation of Lisa is so wounding to Miss Kenton. How did Lisa betray Miss Kenton's trust? Why does Miss Kenton think Lisa is foolish? Why is Miss Kenton secretly jealous of Lisa?

Essay Topic 3

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.

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This section contains 986 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample