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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. Oliver has news for Susan when he returns to Santa Cruz - what is it?

2. What are Susan's hopes about Thomas Hudson?

3. Why is Susan intent upon Oliver pursuing a career other than mining?

4. How does Susan view Lizzie?

5. Why does Lyman call himself a "man of stone"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Susan's state of mind in this chapter?

2. Why are Shelley's problems critical to the story?

3. Why doesn't Susan want Oliver to accept the job in Bolivia?

4. In what ways in this chapter does the author remind the reader of Susan's issues?

5. How are the scenes in this chapter different from all the ones before and after as far as the marriage between Oliver and Susan?

6. How is Susan's transformation into a western woman exemplified in this chapter?

7. How are the 24 canaries sent to Shelley like the elk head sent to Susan?

8. Why is Oliver unsuccessful in his attempts to market his invention?

9. Why did Oliver resign from the New Almaden Mine?

10. When Augusta disapproves of Oliver, what characteristics in Susan are brought to light?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does the author expound on his theme of the importance of choosing the right spouse, or how the choice of a marriage partner rules our life?

Essay Topic 2

Compare the characters of Susan and Oliver. List traits, character deficiencies, methods for dealing with adversity, outlook on life, love and their goals and dreams. How do they mesh and how do they clash?

Essay Topic 3

How does this author use symbolism in the novel? Give specific examples.

(see the answer keys)

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