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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 Otto want from Maria in Chapter 16?

2. What type of music do Maria and Leonard listen to in Chapter 13?

3. What name does Leonard give for his own to the man he meets in the cafe in Chapter 20?

4. Who does MacNamee plan to give a recommendation of Leonard to?

5. What domestic arrangement do Maria and Leonard come to in Chapter 13 regarding meals?

Short Essay Questions

1. What piece of advice does Mr. Blake give Leonard in Chapter 15?

2. What does the note Leonard receive from MacNamee in Chapter 20 contain?

3. Why does Maria think that Otto has hidden in her wardrobe in Chapter 16?

4. How do Leonard's parent's view Maria in Chapter 14?

5. How does Leonard compare his circumstances with Maria in Chapter 13 with their circumstances earlier in the book?

6. What does Leonard dream about in Chapter 19?

7. In Chapter 21, now that the tunnel has been discovered how does MacNamee view the success of the project?

8. Describe how Leonard finds Maria in her apartment in Chapter 14.

9. What does Leonard think that he has entered into, in Chapter 19, when he arrives home?

10. According to Maria, how did her boss respond when she gave her notice in Chapter 22?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is Ian McEwan's writing style? Discuss both the mechanical aspect of his writing and his "voice" throughout the novel. Make sure to discuss what literary tools and devices he relies on most and what specific parts of the text reflect his voice.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the point of view utilized by McEwan in The Innocent. As this was a deliberate choice, discuss why McEwan may have selected the view he did and how the view employed was effective in the development of important themes. Make sure to cite specific textual examples to support your assertions.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout the novel Leonard and Maria's relationship changes dramatically several times. Using textual examples, describe how the shifts in their relationship resonate with the themes of love, judgment, and redemption.

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