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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. In what state is this novel set?

2. What is the name of the cafeteria where the college students at Camden eat their meals?

3. How does Sean react when he is turned down for sex at the party?

4. Where does Daniel Miller go to school?

5. What is the name of the girl Victor thinks about and pines for most on his vacation?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Sean react when Paul meets him to apologize for missing their date?

2. Why does Lauren feel guilty about having sex with Franklin at a party?

3. What happens when Sean attempts to have sex with Deirdre after the party?

4. How does Mitchell treat Paul after the first time they sleep together?

5. What happens when the unnamed narrator of the novel decides that she would like to lose her virginity?

6. What is the significance of the quote "when the sun sets"?

7. Who is Henry, and why is he depressed about his life?

8. What type of relationship did Sean used to have with the hippie he once dated?

9. How does Paul react when he hears that someone is dropping love notes in Sean's mailbox?

10. How does Victor pass the time during his European vacation?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Paul has many reasons for not wanting to go to Boston when his mother calls him. First, describe the relationship Paul has with his family. Then, explain why Paul does not want to leave Camden. Finally, explain why Paul's mother wanted Paul to join her in Boston and what Paul's' reaction to this encounter is.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, the reader watches as the mystery girl's love for Sean grows into obsession. First, describe what the reader learns about the mystery girl through her letters to Sean. Then, explain how the letters gradually grow into obsession. Finally, explain what happens when Sean rejects the mystery girl at a party. How does she react when her heart is broken?

Essay Topic 3

The relationship between Paul and Sean is certainly one of the most confusing in the novel. What discrepancies does the reader see in the two retellings of the relationship? Why do you think Ellis chooses to present the relationship between these men with confusion rather than straight narrative? Do you think this method of storytelling is effective? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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