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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. Where does Bendrix take Sarah on their first "date"?

2. Why is Bendrix focused on his newspaper when Sarah arrives at lunch?

3. Why do Sarah and Bendrix choose the Bristol hotel?

4. Who is Parkis' son named after?

5. What happens when Sarah walks Bendrix to the door?

Short Essay Questions

1. What ironic fact does Sarah's mother reveal to Bendrix as they having dinner? Why is this ironic?

2. Who does Bendrix notice attended Sarah's funeral?

3. Why doesn't Sarah leave Henry as she planned?

4. What is the "gist" of the final prayer Bendrix makes in the novel?

5. Why doesn't Sarah want to give up drinking as she gave up Bendrix?

6. What does Bendrix find written inside of one of Sarah's children's books?

7. What are the two times Sarah believes God gave Maurice back to her?

8. Why does Bendrix decide to invite Henry to lunch?

9. Who is likely the "You" in Sarah's first entry? Why is this likely?

10. What does Waterbury see as the significance of Bendrix going to a funeral at Golders Green?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are several characters who influence the person that the narrator becomes. Select the two characters who you believe have the greatest impact on his development and:

1) describe each character's actions or beliefs as they relate to Bendrix

2) discuss the impact of this character on Bendrix's life and personality

3) discuss why you selected each particular character. What about each character made him/her more of an influence on Bendrix than others?

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 2

One of the themes The End of the Affair explores is faith (in God and other human beings). Discuss what the novel has to say about this theme. Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

Essay Topic 3

Bendrix begins the novel by telling his audience it is a "record of hate." Write an essay:

1) arguing whether or not this statement is true

2) demonstrating the ways that the narrator proves (or disproves) his claim.

Cite several specific examples from the novel to support your ideas.

(see the answer keys)

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