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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. What does Marion receive in the mail that emboldens her?

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

3. Who is the girl who asks Dangerfield for a light for her cigarette?

4. What enrages Marion about the house?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why are O'Keefe's challenges in having sex partly of his own making?

2. Has Dangerfield's life improved from moving from the rickety house to the house in the city?

3. What does Chris discern about her relationship with Dangerfield?

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

5. Why do Dangerfield and Marion fight when she returns home from her trip?

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

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

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

J.P. Donleavy is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony, briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,114 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample