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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 buys the land next to the Guests?

2. Whose new mobile phone does Gerald use?

3. What does Treat want to try for lunch?

4. Why is the mayor insulted by Gerald?

5. Why can't Maurice have rich food?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is on the cover of the premiere issue of Ogee?

2. What is mistakenly believed about Market Hall in Barwick?

3. How does Nick think it is best to deal with Catherine when she is on an "up curve"?

4. What does Penny document in her diary?

5. Describe the game of welly-whanging.

6. What does Jonty Stafford tell Catherine about the Hotel Diocletian?

7. According to Catherine, what is Gerald's view of his constituents?

8. Why does Nick suggest that he has helped make the restaurant Gusto a success?

9. What does Sally Tipper look like?

10. How does Nick know Nat Henmer?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze the double meaning of Henry James' quote about being able to tolerate "a great deal of gilt." How does this quote relate to Nick's life?

Essay Topic 2

Nick is more of a spectator than an actor in the decisions that affect his life. He acts like an appraiser of everyone else's judgments, values, and tastes. Find examples that show Nick to be the cool and removed spectator, critical of others, but unable to ultimately make decisions for himself. Then, analyze whether or not Nick is truly as devoid of power as he seems.

Essay Topic 3

Nick is surrounded by many people who love "things more than people". Using examples in the text, explain how the snobbishness of the wealthy puts a heavy value on possessions over relationships. How do the characters relate to their possessions? How does this compare to how they relate to each other?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 585 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample