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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. Where do Charlie and Kitty usually meet?

2. When Kitty catches Walter's glance through the course of the meal, what expression does she see in his eyes?

3. After being startled in Chapter 1, what item does Charlie give Kitty?

4. Why has Mei-tan-fu been frequently in the newspapers?

5. In Chapter 5, how does Kitty find out that Walter has been home?

Short Essay Questions

1. Walter claims he knew that Kitty had no feelings for him when they married, why did he still want to marry her?

2. What is the view from Kitty's home in Happy Valley?

3. What two physical attributes are described of Doris in Chapter 8?

4. Why does Kitty feel her social position is lower in Hong Kong than it was at home in England?

5. When Walter first tells Kitty about going to Mei-tan-fu, what reasons does she give for not wanting to accompany him?

6. Describe Dorothy Townsend's appearance as given by Kitty in Chapter 3.

7. What physical feature of Mrs.Garstin does Kitty find most disconcerting and why?

8. Once they are married, what daily habits does Walter display that shows his affection for Kitty?

9. How many reasons does Charlie give for a potentially calm reaction from Walter upon finding out about their rendezvous?

10. Why does Kitty claim to not care if Walter does "kick up a row" about her affair with Charlie?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the preface Maugham discusses how he was inspired by a plot line in Dante's Purgatorio due to its modern elements. Do you agree or disagree with the statement that: The Painted Veil is a modern plot? Specifically discuss why or why not it is relevant and applicable to today's society and if it is accessible to the reader.

Essay Topic 2

In the novel Waddington makes a statement that he enjoys talking to Kitty because,"you (Kitty) and I (Waddington) are the only people here who walk quite quietly and peaceably on solid ground. The nuns walk in heaven and your husband-- in darkness." Explain what Waddington meant by this statement. Do you believe that this is an accurate analogy of the characters. Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The theme of love is central to The Painted Veil and has many manifestations. Compare and contrast two approaches to the idea of "what is love" as evidenced by the following characters:

a) Kitty's initial love for Charlie.

b) Walter's love for Kitty.

c) Charlie's love for Kitty.

d) Waddington's love for his mistress.

e) Mother Superior's love for God.

f) Kitty's love for her father.

(see the answer keys)

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