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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. Why isn't Lauren's boyfriend, Victor at the Thursday party with her?

2. What nationality are the men who approach Victor at the nude beach and teach him to sing songs in their native language?

3. What is the name of the man who sleeps with Deirdre at the Thursday party even though he is not interested in her?

4. Which of the following is NOT a country Victor visits while on vacation?

5. Which of the following is Marc's drug of choice and one that he uses frequently throughout the novel?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

5. What type of relationship does Lauren have with her parents?

6. Why does Sean think that Lauren is the girl leaving love notes in his mailbox?

7. According to Paul's perspective of the evening, what happened when Sean leaves the party and comes back to his house?

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

9. Why is Paul hesitant to meet his mother in Boston when she requests a visit?

10. What event prevents Paul from meeting Sean for their "date"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Lauren's relationship with Vittrio is clearly a turning-point in her character's life. First, describe the character of Vittrio and how he and Lauren found themselves in a romantic relationship. Then, explain Sean's reaction to the news of Lauren's relationship with Vittrio. How did this affair alter their own relationship? Finally, explain how Lauren's relationship with Vittrio can be traced back to her childhood insecurities. What does this relationship tell the reader about the maturity of her character?

Essay Topic 3

Unrequited love is prominent theme throughout the novel. Choose at least two instances of relationships considered to be unrequited love. Then compare/contrast the reasons behind this unrequited love. Why can't it be reciprocated? Then, explain the results of this unrequited love in the characters' lives. Why might Ellis claim that unrequited love is the most dangerous kind of love?

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