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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. After leaving Bodie's office, Hank crosses campus and sees the television crew is there again. Who does he see with them?

2. What state is Railton College in?

3. What does Hank find on a shelf in Pope's office?

4. What does Leo aspire to be?

5. What does Hank grab and hold up, swearing that he will kill a duck every day until the Railton College departments get more funding?

Short Essay Questions

1. After visiting with Mr. Purty and then his mother, Hank plays racquetball with another professor, Tony Coniglia. What happens after their game?

2. What is the narrator, Hank's, full name and what is his occupation? Where does he work?

3. After seeing Bodie in her office and going to his own office, Hank is on his way out but is stopped by a couple of his colleagues. Who are they and what do they want?

4. After visiting the duck pond, Hank heads to the cafeteria. Who does he meet there? What is Hank's history with this person? What do they talk about?

5. What does Hank say in the Prologue about his father's life after the arrival of the dog? What does he say about his relationship with his father?

6. When Hank gets back to his office, after meeting with Bodie, what does he tell his secretary? What does Rachel tell him and what does Hank do about this?

7. What did Hank's mother make Hank promise to do if he got a dog? Why?

8. In the Prologue, how does Hank explain that his life was not easy as a child?

9. What is near the construction site that catches Hank's attention? What does he do?

10. What kinds of thoughts does Wheemer generate in Hank?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Hank as the protagonist in Straight Man. What is the definition of protagonist? Discuss both Hank's positive and negative characteristics, and give three examples of each to show how they influence the actions he takes and the decisions he makes.

Essay Topic 2

In reference to the organization (plot) of "Straight Man":

(1) Why are the events of the novel arranged as they are?

(2) What moves the narrative along? Is it external action or internal conflicts? Or is it a combination of both? Support your answer with examples.

Essay Topic 3

State the theme of "Straight Man". How is the theme of the story reflected in the conflicts and challenges Hank Devereaux experiences during one week at Railton College? Give four examples with an explanation for each one.

(see the answer keys)

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