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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. Penelope picks up cans of ____________ which have washed up on the shore at Porthkerris.

2. Who informs Olivia that Penelope has died?

3. Who is Antonia in love with?

4. Why is Noel angry at his mother?

5. Who accompanies Penelope on a trip to Porthkerris?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Richard stand in stark contrast to Ambrose?

2. Explain how Penelope's trip to Porthkerris provides closure to her life.

3. What is revealed about the mysterious appointment Penelope had in London on the day before her death?

4. What impact does Sophie's death have on her family?

5. Where is the painting, The Shell Seekers, now hanging?

6. Why does Penelope have such a fitful night after her appointment in London?

7. How do Nancy and Noel react to news of Penelope's death?

8. How does Penelope meet Richard Lomax?

9. Who is Roy Brookner?

10. What does Penelope do when she learns from Mr. Brookner that the paintings have sold?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses more than one instance of irony in the book. Cite at least two other examples you can identify in the book and note why they are examples of irony.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the role of women in England in the mid- to late-20th century when the women in the novel are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century women do not have?

Essay Topic 3

Create a character study of Olivia. What are her physical characteristics? What are her motivations? What are her fears? What are her dreams? What else can you say about Olivia?

(see the answer keys)

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