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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. When Sean leaves Lauren's apartment after their fight, where does he go?

2. What song does Stuart dance to hoping to impress Paul?

3. What is the name of the hall where Sean's hippie ex-girlfriend lives?

4. What does Sean see Lauren doing with another man at the Halloween party that sends him into a rage?

5. How long does Paul stay in Boston before returning to his college campus.

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How does Sean react to the news of Lauren's pregnancy?

3. How does Sean react when Lauren breaks up with him for cheating on her?

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

5. What happens when Sean and Lauren spend the night together for the first time in his room?

6. What happens when Sean goes to the hospital to visit with his sick father?

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

8. Why does Lauren think that Victor is dead, and how does she react to this news?

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

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

While at a party, Sean is rejected for sex by Roxanne. First, explain why Roxanne turned Sean down for sex. Then, explain Sean's reaction to this rejection. Finally, explain how Sean's violent outburst can be seen as foreshadowing for his behavior later on in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Lauren is a girl with a trouble past, particularly in regard to her parents. First, explain what type of relationship Lauren has with her parents and how this relationship feeds into her insecurities. Then, explain how Lauren's relationship with her parents affects her personal decisions particularly in regard to her romantic life.

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