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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. Who is Egbert Skully?

2. What item does Dangerfield need to complete his meal?

3. Why does O'Keefe envy Dangerfield's marriage?

4. What is the source of Dangerfield's anger?

5. What does Chris prepare for Dangerfield when he says he has been attacked in the bar?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does O'Keefe realize about Dangerfield when he loans Dangerfield money?

2. What is the result of Dangerfield's embarrassment about the train incident?

3. How does the impoverished Dangerfield secure food for O'Keefe and himself?

4. Why does Dangerfield not mind when Chris tries to talk about their relationship?

5. What is the premise of THE GINGER MAN?

6. How do Dangerfield's behavioral traits undermine him in terms of money vs. pleasure?

7. Explain how Chapter 10 is a long, crass joke indicative of Dangerfield's unwillingness to examine himself when problems arise.

8. Why does Dangerfield turn to Chris when he has wrecked the bar in a drunken state?

9. How does Dangerfield view his wife and child and his life in general?

10. What is Dangerfield's destructive behavior when he learns that Marion has received money from his father?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the role of the family in THE GINGER MAN. What does it mean for each of the main characters? How does the family disintegrate? How typical is this family to most Irish families living during the mid-20th century?

Essay Topic 2

What is the overall setting setting for the novel? Be sure to include geography, time period and any pertinent popular culture events. Why did Donleavy choose to use these places in the book?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses several instances of foreshadowing in the story. 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 1,130 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample