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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 Paola offer that Fina does not for Profane?

2. Why did Victoria part with her father and her sister?

3. In a cafe in Egypt, what does the waiter P. Aieul hear two Englishmen talk about?

4. Who is Goodfellow?

5. Who is Fina?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Morris Teflon and what is his role in Chapter 1?

2. What is Benny's new job at the end of Chapter 1 and how does he get it?

3. How does Dr. Schoenmaker view Esther in Chapter 4?

4. Why does Profane leave his friends?

5. What is the disturbing discovery that Profane makes about Fina?

6. Describe the Sailor's Grave.

7. What does Rachel have a desire for that all the other members of the Whole Sick Crew appear to lack?

8. Describe Waldetar.

9. What is the plan concocted by the two men outside the wine shop and what does Gaucho propose?

10. What appears to be a problem in Rachel and Benny's relationship?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the significance of the novel's title. Why do you think the author named the book V.? Now that you have read the book, how does that alter your understanding of the title? Are you intrigued to find a sequel? Why or why not? Cite examples to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Pynchon is known for paying homage to various authors and works of literature. Choose at least four references used in the book. Write at least 250 words on each reference. Also add your opinion as to why Pynchon chose that particular author or reference.

Essay Topic 3

The author uses some important instances of flashbacks in the stories. Explain what a flashback is and cite at least two making sure to explain what makes each a flashback.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 752 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample