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

Short Answer Questions

1. How does his diary represent his mental state?

2. What two feelings does Styron experience as he planned his suicide?

3. What new approach does Styron's psychiatrist use?

4. For Styron, what is the most devastating loss of physical functions?

5. What is the hardest piece of writing Styron attempted during his depression?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Styron repeatedly mentions about how much a strong social support of family and friends is important to a person's recovery. He makes a slight mention of his wife as support, and a couple of friends, yet he leaves out but little of the discussion of family support. Was he trying to protect his family? What is the relationship between private and public lives? What kind of support system do you feel he had?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the possible meaning Camus had when he talked about man's alienation for other men. What does this perspective mean, given his diagnosis of depression? Would he have seen the world the same way if he had not suffered depression? Do you think Styron agreed with him? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Styron's comments and thoughts about the stigma associated with mental illness. Include his recommendations for how to overcome that stigma. Give examples from the book showing both his thoughts and his recommendations.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 321 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample