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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. In whose room does Persse hide in a wardrobe?

2. What author was Morris Zapp's specialty?

3. What item does Philip Swallow always pack too many of when traveling?

4. What does Persse go into town to buy?

5. What does Robin Dempsey tell Frobisher is his most-used word?

Short Essay Questions

1. What two letters from London are awaiting Persse McGarrigle when he returns to Limerick?

2. How does Philip Swallow's first day in Turkey go?

3. Why is Dr. Akbil Borak reading the entire "Collected Works of William Hazlitt"?

4. What is the minor argument between Michel Tardieu and Albert about?

5. Describe the atmosphere Philip sets to tell his story about Joy.

6. How does Cheryl Summerbee keep from getting bored at work?

7. What does Morris Zapp see as the beauty of academic life?

8. What is Morris' advice to Philip regarding his conference?

9. How did Persse get his current job in Limerick?

10. Describe Akira Sakazaki's home.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast three of the different literary theories espoused by the academic characters in the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the meaning of the title of this novel: how is the world small? Which world? What is an academic romance? Is there such a thing?

Essay Topic 3

How does David Lodge use the legend of the Holy Grail in the novel "Small World"? Use at least three examples to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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