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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Canino have in his hand as he punches Marlowe?

2. Where does Captain Gregory work?

3. Who could Marlowe get a full-time job working for?

4. Why does Carmen not kill Marlowe when she shoots at him?

5. What does Marlowe do at home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Look at the structure of the novel:

1) How does Chandler use character and dialogue to drive the narrative.

2) Discuss elements of the narrative structure, including: Exposition, conflict, complication, climax, resolution and conclusion. Do all the elements make for a logical and linear story? How does the story's structure express the novel's themes?

3) Away from the main character examine the way Chandler uses the other characters in the story. When does he introduce and take them away from the story? What effect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss Chandler's life. In what way do you think his life and personality is reflected in the book?

Essay Topic 3

The Big Sleep is written in the first person and with Marlowe as narrator. Why do you think Chandler chose to write the story in the first person? How do you think the meaning of the story would of changed if it was written in the third person?

(see the answer keys)

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