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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 is Nick doing in this story?

2. What is unique about the Indian woman?

3. What is the condition of the baby's father?

4. How many people are in the vehicle passed by Nick and his friends?

5. By what method is Nick traveling?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who does Nick meet at the train station with his friend, Tom?

2. How does Hemingway continue to show Nick's passivity?

3. Explain the theme of the conflict between friendship and fun in this story.

4. What is Nick's overall demeanor in this story?

5. How does Nick's fear of death exhibit again in this story?

6. What is the premise of this story?

7. How does Hemingway show his love of nature through Nick's actions in this story?

8. What is the role of nature in this story?

9. What happens when Nick and his friends pass some Indians on their way home on the Fourth of July?

10. Despite his being older, what fear still haunts Nick?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Hemingway writes extensively in his career about bullfighting. Why was the sport so popular? Why would a man like Hemingway be attracted to it? What are your own feelings about the sport?

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

Hemingway gives Nick the ability to see beyond immediate pain and discomfort by putting him in situations that give him hope. Cite some examples where Nick's mood and spirits lift when his hopeful nature takes over.

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