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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 Esther feel as she careens down the ski slope?

2. Which of the following best describes Lenny and Doreen's dancing?

3. What grade does Esther earn in her physics class?

4. Why had Esther visited her family doctor?

5. Who has Mrs. Willard promised to introduce Esther to in New York City?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Buddy react when Esther falls while skiing?

2. What does Esther think makes her a neurotic?

3. Describe Buddy's first visit to Esther's college

4. What activities does Esther consider taking up after finding out she was not accepted into the writing course?

5. Why is Esther so enamored with the rich foods she is served at the Ladies' Day luncheon?

6. Why does Marco attack Esther?

7. Describe the birth scene that Esther and Buddy witness from Esther's point of view

8. Compare Constantin and Buddy.

9. What leads Esther to be invited for lunch by Philomena Guinea?

10. What does Esther decide about her friendship with Doreen the night of their visit to Lenny's apartment? What causes her to make this decision?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Friendships have a major impact on Esther's development throughout the novel. Choose two of the women who Esther is friends with and:

1) describe the friendship

2) discuss the impact that this friendship had on Esther

3) analyze what the author is saying about friendships and their importance for women in general.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 2

Imagine that the novel ended with the hospital review board telling Esther she must stay at the asylum for additional treatment. Write an essay:

1) critiquing their decision (Do you agree or disagree with it? Why?)

2) arguing for the appropriate type of treatment she should receive in the hospital based on her previous experiences.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

The Bell Jar takes place in several different settings. Compare and contrast three of the settings focusing on:

1) describing the setting and Esther's role within it

2) the significance of the setting in Esther's development.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

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