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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 type of flowers does Poirot order this time?

2. How long did the chocolates sit on the table by the nurses' station before they were delivered?

3. Who is hit when a bullet is shot through the window?

4. Who will take the lead role in this event?

5. Who supposedly sent the chocolates?

Short Essay Questions

1. Examine the conversation between Challenger and Poirot.

2. What is Poirot's suggestion in regards to clearing up the mystery of the will?

3. What is the obvious solution to the crime now that Freddie's husband is dead?

4. Discuss the meeting between Poirot, Hastings and Inspector Japp.

5. Explain the involvement of Weston in the case. What is the most recent piece of evidence uncovered?

6. What is contained in the letter sent to Poirot from Maggie's mother?

7. Explain the scene with the Crofts at this time.

8. What happens to the face in the window?

9. List at least some of the questions Poirot has about the people on the list.

10. What is Poirot's next step?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe Christie's brilliant use of foreshadowing throughout the book. Give at least three examples of foreshadowing. Give details and the purpose of using the technique. How else could the reader learn about the important information? What other technique might have been used?

Foreshadowing also applies to the characters, not just events. Name at least one instance pertaining to each character in the story. Explain the significance of the method in regards to the character as well as the story. Also point out if Poirot is able to pick up on the clues and how they shape his opinion and investigation.

Essay Topic 2

Examine Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series. How many books are there? Write a character profile of Hercule Poirot. Include his work with the British law enforcement system as well as work as a private detective. Discuss how the character has progressed and evolved throughout the series. Where might Poirot go next? How might Poirot's adventures change in future books? Has Poirot ever failed to solve a case? Has Poirot ever worked with other detectives, e.g, Miss Jane Marple? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Captain Hastings is a staple in many of Agatha Christie's stories in the Poirot series. What is the history of Captain Hastings? How does he know Poirot? In what capacity can Hastings call himself a captain? What is Hastings' profession? What benefit is there to having Hastings in the story from Christie's point of view? What benefit is there to having Hastings in the story from Poirot's point of view? Name and describe at least three instances where Hastings' presence is invaluable to Poirot. How might Poirot have solved the cases without the help of Hastings? Who else serves in the same capacity as the captain?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,049 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample