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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. Paul listens to voicemails on Michel's phone from whom?

2. Where does the story take place?

3. What sports does Michel play?

4. Why are the couples able to reserve a table on short notice?

5. When Michel finds Paul, what lie does Paul tell him?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the restaurant described?

2. What movie is discussed over dinner? What does Serge observe about the film?

3. To what films does Paul compare the setting and people of Dordogne in Chapter 12?

4. How does Paul describe the people of Dordogne in Chapter 12?

5. How is Serge perceived by the public?

6. What is the significance of the white sneakers in the video?

7. How does Paul describe his feelings about his brother?

8. How is the arrival of Serge and Babette at the restaurant described?

9. Where do Paul and Claire go before the restaurant? Why?

10. What film is described by Claire as the most racist film ever in Chapter 13? Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explore the relationship of Claire and Paul. How does Paul deal with the Claire's illness and the possibility of losing his family? Why is Claire so protective of Paul? What keeps their marriage going?

Essay Topic 2

Explore Paul's and Serge's career paths. What does it take to succeed in politics vs. the classroom? What skills does one have that the other lacks? What skills and strengths do they share?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the themes of of race and class privilege as explored in The Dinner. How are these themes developed through character, action, circumstances, and symbolism? How would the events and circumstances of the novel differ if the characters were not affluent and white?

(see the answer keys)

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