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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. Why does Bendrix think Henry asks him to dine at his club instead of Bendrix's?

2. What does Parkis give Bendrix as a memento?

3. What does Parkis take from Sarah's house that he shares with Bendrix?

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

5. What religion does Richard Smythe preach?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What does Parkis say prevents private investigators from becoming famous?

3. What is ironic about Parkis' son's name?

4. What promise does Sarah make to God if He will return Bendrix to life?

5. What is the Cophetua complex? What does it have to do with Bendrix and Sarah?

6. Why is Bendrix not concerned when his first intimate encounter with Sarah is not momentous?

7. How does Bendrix change his work routine in preparation for running away with Sarah?

8. What upsets Bendrix about the photo of Sarah he has on his desk?

9. Why is Bendrix reminded "this is what hope feels like" after talking with Sarah on the phone?

10. Summarize Parkis' letter to Bendrix

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Bendrix and Sarah's memories of events from their affair are often different. Select two of the scenes that both describe and compare and contrast them. How are they different depending on the narrator? How are they the same? What does this say about a person's memory (especially of an emotionally charged situation)?

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

Essay Topic 2

In The End of the Affair, a few minor characters have a major impact on the story line. Select one of the following minor characters to analyze: Parkis, Richard Smythe, Mrs. Bertram or Father Crompton. Discuss:

1) The personality (character traits) of this character

2) The relationship between this minor character and the major characters in the story

3) The impact of this character on the story line--How does s/he influence the overall story line? How would the story be different if this character was removed?

Essay Topic 3

Marriage plays an interesting role in this novel. Write an essay:

1) describing the ways marriage is portrayed in the novel

2) examining the significance of marriage in the plot and character development

3) arguing what you believe the author is trying to say about marriage through the novel.

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

(see the answer keys)

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