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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. Instead of returning to the cabin, where do Norman and Paul spend the night?

2. Why does Norman feel he cannot help Paul?

3. What does Norman ask Paul?

4. How does Norman think that Jessie and her family will react to Neal's condition?

5. What do Norman and Mr. Maclean come to realize?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Norman not remain to fish with Neal?

2. How does Norman react to Neal's arrival a few days later?

3. What happens one night after Norman and Paul spend the day fishing?

4. On what is the story based?

5. Where do Norman and Paul escape from Norman's family problems a few days later?

6. What is Norman's reaction to the phone call?

7. Who goes on the fishing trip the next morning?

8. What favor does Norman ask of his brother, Paul?

9. Who arrives to surprise Norman and Paul at the cabin?

10. What is the occupation of Norman and Paul's father?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the irony in the situation of the cook losing all his money after he has cheated to win it in the poker game. All through the story the cook has been rude and disdainful to Norman, yet it is Norman who finds the cook beaten and broken in an alley and gives him all the money he has. What does it say about Norman's character that he can rise above the difficulties he has experienced with the cook and act like a good human being? Would the cook have done the same for Norman? Explain your position.

Essay Topic 2

Explain the symbolism of Norman's ritual of bathing in the river each night after the days spent with Jim. How do you think Norman's days begin? Do you think he can almost feel the grime of Jim's lifestyle rubbing off on him as he spends time with him each day? As far as Norman is concerned, does the river have enough water to wash away the residue of being near Jim Grierson?

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast Norman and Jim Grierson. They seem to be complete opposites, yet Norman agrees to work with Jim. What would make Norman push past his personal distaste for Jim and agree to the working arrangement? Do you think Norman ever found any redeeming qualities in Jim?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 748 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample