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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. How does Paul react when he realizes that Richard is trying to seduce him?

2. What drug has made Lauren extremely skinny and unattractive to Sean?

3. What happens when Lauren calls Victor for the first time since he left for vacation?

4. Where does Sean see his brother and father for the first time since leaving home?

5. What weapon do the Indians use to threaten Clay in his hallucinations?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do Norris and Sean do together when they drive into town on Halloween night?

2. Who is Richard Jared?

3. How does the mystery girl find out that she has no chance of having a romantic relationship with Sean?

4. What events lead Sean to believe that he is falling in love with Lauren?

5. How does Lauren claim to know the truth about Sean sleeping with Judy?

6. What type of relationship does Sean have with Rupert?

7. After breaking up with Victor, what does Lauren realize about her feelings for Sean?

8. What happens when Lauren finally confronts Sean about sleeping with Judy?

9. What characteristics about Sean's personality starts to irritate Lauren after they have been dating for some time?

10. What happens when Lauren calls Victor for the first time since he left for Europe?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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?

Essay Topic 2

This novel is often seen as an homage to the death of romance. Do you agree with this analysis of the novel? Why or why not? Are there any instances of true love in the novel? If so, where? If not, do you think any of the characters are capable of true love? Why?

Essay Topic 3

When Paul hears that his parents are getting divorced, he has two reactions: an initial reaction and a delayed reaction. First, describe the two reactions Paul has to the news of the divorce. Why do you think his reactions differ so greatly? Then, explain how the news of his parents' divorce affects the way Paul views the romances in his own life? Do you think the news of his parents' divorce muddles Paul's view of love or gives him greater clarity? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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