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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 goal does Lovelace say he will achieve by trying to seduce Clarissa?

2. How do Lovelace's friends react when they learn that Clarissa does not like them?

3. After the Howes learn of Lovelace's many tricks and his use of drugs to rape Clarissa, what do they think Clarissa should do?

4. In letter 21, how is Clarissa punished for refusing to be nice to Mr. Solmes?

5. Why is Clarissa's family happy that she has agreed to see Solmes?

Short Essay Questions

1. Do you agree with Lovelace's interpretation of Clarissa's letter about going to her "father's house"? Why or why not?

2. Why do you think Lovelace can not maintain his feelings of repentance?

3. How does the meeting between Morden and Lovelace characterize all the men who are present?

4. What options does Clarissa have other than seeking protection with Lovelace's aunt?

5. Dolly says that if she were in Clarissa's position, she would marry Lovelace. What do you think Clarissa should do?

6. Do you think Clarissa should give in and marry Solmes? Why or why not?

7. Why is Clarissa's response to Charlotte explaining why she can't marry Lovelace ironic?

8. Are Clarissa's letters to her family what you expected? Why or why not?

9. In letters 1-21, Clarissa's family tries to control her behavior. Discuss at least two of her family members and explain their motivations to behave the way they do toward her.

10. How does Arabella's letter refusing to forgive Clarissa develop Arabella's character?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The theme of will power is important in "Clarissa." Discuss the role of will power in relationship to (a) Clarissa, (b) Lovelace, and (c) any one of the other characters. Be sure to describe what kinds of goals each of these characters wants to achieve and how they demonstrate (or do not demonstrate) the ability to achieve their will.

Essay Topic 2

Marriage in the eighteenth century (especially for wealthy people) was seen both as a relationship that might begin in romance and as a legal and financial contract. Discuss three marriages in this novel in terms of their romantic and financial aspects.

Essay Topic 3

Give three examples of things that happen to Clarissa's body that are symbolic of the things that are happening to her life. Explain the symbolism in each case.

(see the answer keys)

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