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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. Name one theme in the story thus far?

2. What necessity is lacking on the island?

3. What is the argument about?

4. From what are the passengers required to take shelter?

5. Where did the Davidsons meet?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Macphail see on his way to the wharf?

2. Where are the travelers headed in this part of the story?

3. What is the mode of transportation mentioned at the beginning of the story?

4. What is the reaction of the women when they learn about Thompson's arrival?

5. What is Mrs. Davidson's opinion on the inhabitants of Tutuila?

6. At this point, how far are the travelers from their destination?

7. Describe briefly how the Davidsons met.

8. In what part of the world does the story take place?

9. To whom is Davidson compared by Dr. Macphail?

10. What bad news is brought by Davidson?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Give an overview of the personality of Horn. What is unusual about the man? What about Horn contradicts the appearance the man chooses to present? What is the collective opinion of the travelers about Horn? What is Horn's status in the community?

Essay Topic 2

Horn is an interesting and somewhat enigmatic character. Horn is not a native but seems to be accepted as one. Why? What is Horn's interest in the island? Describe Horn's business. The author also creates juxtaposition with Horn's attitudes and actions against his physical description. Examine the juxtaposition and how it is or is not effective in the story.

Essay Topic 3

Rain obviously plays a large part in the story. Explain Maugham's use of rain and related metaphors. How did the rain affect the various characters in the story? What might have changed if the weather had been more agreeable? How did the weather affect the future of the travelers? How did it affect the personalities and moods of the characters? How are you affected by prolonged bouts of rain?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 490 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample