View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where is Peyton's birthday party held?

2. Who is Milton Loftis' younger daughter?

3. On whose money was Milton essentially living?

4. Who is the funeral director?

5. Where is the train at the beginning of Chapter 2?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the experience of the black people contrast with the lives of the supposedly more fortunate Loftis family?

2. How does Helen feel about Dolly and her husband and when does she know there is something going on between Dolly and Milton?

3. For what reasons do Helen and Milton blame each other for their collapsing marriage?

4. Why is Dolly disheartened by Milton's behavior when they're having drinks at the country club?

5. How does LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS begin?

6. What is the premise of LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS?

7. How can Dolly best be characterized?

8. What are some of Helen's recollections in Chapter 1?

9. Describe Peyton's interactions with men and what value they have for her.

10. Explain the narrative structure of LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses some important instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an example of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

There is much symbolism in this story regarding the alarm clock. What does the alarm clock symbolize for the story? What does it symbolize for Peyton in particular? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Create a brief character study of Dolly. What does she look like? What are her positive personality traits? What are some of her negative characteristics? What are her hopes and fears? What motivates her--if anything--at this point in her life?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,001 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample