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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. How does Rose's mother die?

2. In what country is the young couple vacationing?

3. What is Hamish's last name?

4. What does the man in #73 do at the end of the story?

5. Why is Annie mad at her former husband when he comes to see her?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Mr. Brooke in "The Witness" typical of Lessing's characters?

2. What angers George about the way Rose notifies him of her mother's death?

3. How do Mary and Hamish view people differently?

4. What does George learn from his ex-wife about the cause of his divorce?

5. What is the irony of Jimmy calling Rose selfish?

6. How do George's fears about Rose canceling their wedding plans come true?

7. What is the meaning of Rose's obsession with adopting Jill?

8. What is the premise of "Wine"?

9. What does the woman in "How I Finally Lost My Heart" realize she is holding in her hands?

10. What is the significance of the author leaving the heart behind?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Several of Lessing's works are classic stories of loss and renewal. What does that classification entail? Why do some of the stories fit into this category? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

The frustration of unfulfilled affection touches several characters in the stories. Name at least two characters who experience unfulfilled love and the situations that occur as a result.

Essay Topic 3

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the stories. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an instance of foreshadowing.

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This section contains 933 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample