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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 the girl who asks Dangerfield for a light for her cigarette?

2. What plan does Dangerfield make when he grows bored at home?

3. Who is Dangerfield's daughter?

4. What college do Dangerfield and O'Keefe both attend?

5. How much money does O'Keefe give to Dangerfield?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Dangerfield leave Chris when she confronts him about the bar brawl she reads about in the newspaper?

2. Who was Blessed Oliver Plunkett?

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

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

5. What is at the core of Dangerfield's nasty behavior?

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

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

8. Where has Marion moved and why does Dangerfield seem to like it?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Poverty and wealth is an important theme in DA. Can you cite an example to support this theme? Name two other themes and cite examples 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.

(see the answer keys)

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