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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. On what topic were Bogus's thesis chairman and father in agreement?

2. What didn't Bogus like about Biggie's work outfit?

3. What trait does Bogus envy in Dr. Vigneron?

4. Which adjective did Bogus not use to describe the man from the bar?

5. Which suggestion does the doctor NOT give Bogus for dealing with his problem?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does a katydid alter Bogus's view of the world?

2. Explain the reasoning behind Mr. Fitch's contempt for "war-built" items.

3. How did the theme of Bogus's letter to Consumer Reports relate to the speech he would have given "number 368" if he weren't so exhausted?

4. Why did Ralph not think he needed to pay Bogus?

5. Describe the connection Bogus shares with Couth and why this is a strange basis for a friendship.

6. In Chapter 18, what comparison does Bogus make between Akthelt and Gunnel and his life?

7. Describe the irony between Bogus's medical issues and his father's career.

8. How did Biggie's letters differ, and which did she send?

9. How did the dictionary symbolize Bogus's work ethic in life?

10. What caused Biggie and Bogus to fight in Chapter 14?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What introspective view of Bogus can the reader gain from the way in which Bogus finishes his translation?

Essay Topic 2

John Irving's writing style in this novel is choppy, bouncing between time periods and points of view. There are also a myriad of writing modes involved. How are each of these elements key to the story that unfolds, as far as the plot and narrative being told?

Essay Topic 3

The story begins with Bogus looking for a solution for his urinary tract issues. Bogus notes that his father, who is a urologist, could not identify his urinary issues even though Dr. Vigneron claims they are quiet obvious. Expand on this thought and how it applies to Bogus's overall life. Also, Bogus has four choices for how to handle his problems. The choices are medication, abstinence, surgery, or the Water-Method. Explain how the choices he makes represent his interaction with the world.

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