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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. Which of the following adjectives best describes Sean's attempt to apologize to Lauren for his infidelity?

2. In which room of Vittorio's house does Sean awaken after he passes out from the drugs?

3. How much money does the kid from the bus ask to borrow from Paul?

4. Where does Franklin claim he was strip searched while traveling?

5. In what state did Paul's ex-girlfriend used to live, the girl that Paul's mother still thinks he is dating?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

4. What is the real reason Paul's mother has requested her son to come visit her in Boston?

5. Why does Victor finally phone Lauren, and what is her reaction to the call?

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

7. What bumbling apology does Sean try to make to Lauren in regards to his cheating, and how does Lauren respond?

8. How does the mystery girl react to her devastation of being ignored by Sean at the party?

9. Why is Paul immediately annoyed with the hotel receptionist in Boston?

10. Who is Richard Jared?

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

At the end of the novel, Sean seems to have learned nothing from experience and does not seem to have matured. Is there any character in the novel who seems to have learned from past mistakes? Support your answer with specific details from the novel.

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

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