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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. Why did Dangerfield once touch the decapitated head of Blessed Oliver Plunkett?

2. Why is O'Keefe going to France?

3. What does Dangerfield do when he realizes his social gaffe on the train?

4. Who comes to the new house looking for Dangerfield?

5. What beverage does O'Keefe buy for Dangerfield?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How are Marion and O'Keefe alike in their relationships with Dangerfield?

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

4. How do Marion and Dangerfield differ in their approach to their life together?

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

6. Who was Blessed Oliver Plunkett?

7. Who is Kenneth O'Keefe and where does Dangerfield invite him to go in Chapter 1?

8. What does Chris learn about Dangerfield and Marion's sex life and what does Dangerfield reveal about wanting to have sex with Chris?

9. What are the two most important things in the lives of Dangerfield and O'Keefe?

10. Who is Lily Frost?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Create a character study of Mary. What are her physical characteristics? What are her motivations? What are her fears? What are her dreams? What else can you say about Mary?

Essay Topic 2

Does Donleavy end the novel on a note of hope for Dangerfield or the continuance of his struggle to come to terms with his flawed relationship with Mary? Give your perspective and two reasons to support your answer.

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 1,088 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample