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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. What bothers Esther about the article "In Defense of Chastity"?

2. What does Esther think caused her sickness?

3. What does Esther do to prevent Marco from raping her?

4. Why does Esther like Doreen?

5. How does Esther know Buddy?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Buddy tell Esther about losing his virginity?

2. Describe what runs through Esther's head when she and Constantin are visiting the UN.

3. What is Esther's standing joke with her grandfather about caviar?

4. Why is Esther surprised when Buddy comes to visit her at college?

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

6. Who is Mrs. Ockenden?

7. Compare Constantin and Buddy.

8. Describe the story that Esther reads in the short story book from the Ladies' Day magazine

9. Why does Marco give Esther his diamond stick pin?

10. Describe Jay Cee (from Esther's perspective)

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Esther's family live has a subtle but important effect on the changes that she undergoes throughout the novel. Discuss:

1) Esther's family dynamics

2) the impact of Esther's family life on her personal life

3) how Esther's life would have been different if both of her parents had been alive.

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

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the significance of the novel's title. Be sure to include:

1) a definition of "bell jar"

2) the relationship between the bell jar and Esther

3) what the bell jar represents about Esther's character.

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

Essay Topic 3

There are several characters who influence the person that the narrator becomes. Select the two characters who you believe have the greatest impact on her development and:

1) describe each character's actions or beliefs as they relate to Esther

2) discuss the impact of this character on Esther's life and personality

3) discuss why you selected each particular character. What about each character made him/her more of an influence on Esther than others?

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

(see the answer keys)

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