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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 does Rafaela steal from Dona Maria's house in Chapter 18?

2. In Chapter 6, what does Gabriel realize is wrong with his house in Mexico?

3. In Chapter 10, what upsets Rodriguez about the eggs?

4. When does Gabriel call Buzzworm in Chapter 6?

5. Why does Manzanar finally accept being interviewed by Gabriel?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Manzanar do as he watches the second fire in Chapter 19?

2. How does Gabriel choose the trees for his landscaping in Mexico?

3. Why does Rafaela steal from Dona Maria in Chapter 18?

4. In Chapter 7, why does the crowd of people distrust Arcangel?

5. In Chapter 16, what raises Buzzworm's suspicion about the deaths of his friends?

6. In Chapter 1, how is Rafaela's life in Mexico described?

7. How do the characters react to the appearance of crabs in Chapter 10?

8. What does Buzzworm do with his watches in Chapter 4?

9. After leaving the restaurant in Chapter 21, what new part of his identity does Arcangel reveal?

10. Why does Gabriel spend time near Mazatlan, Mexico in Chapter 1?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The homeless population play a central role in this novel, although most remain unknown characters. Consider how the characters in "Tropic of Orange" relate to the homeless. How does this large group work as a single character? What is the commentary this novel provides on the homeless?

Essay Topic 2

How is "Tropic of Orange" a satire? Define the genre and consider the aspects of this novel that fit the description. How can you account for the aspects of this novel that do not appear to be straight satire? What makes satire an effective, or appropriate, genre for the message of "Tropic of Orange"?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the narrative devices used in "Tropic of Orange". Consider the multiple narratives, shifts in voices and shifts in time. What is the impact on this novel's characters and plot development? How does this influence the development of the major themes?

(see the answer keys)

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