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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 does Bruce believe about Nola and the first time he made love to her?

2. Why was Chet's annulled marriage renewed?

3. What disease had stricken Bruce's brother?

4. Why had Nola's brother taken Bruce behind the barn?

5. Who was Bill Binnion?

Short Essay Questions

1. What could account for Bruce's high opinion of himself as a young man?

2. What conclusion does Bruce arrive at regarding Nola's need for a man?

3. How does the author show Bruce's affections for his mother regarding his going to the prom?

4. How did Nola avoid having sex with Bruce in the cabin that weekend?

5. What was the only life Bruce had ever envisioned for his future?

6. How does Bruce violate his instincts about bringing any friends into their home?

7. How does Bruce feel that he is above Nola's family members?

8. What prompts Bruce to ask Nola to marry him?

9. What game did the couples play when Bruce and Nola accompanied Bailey and his girlfriend to a cabin one weekend?

10. Other than leaving Nola, what complicated Bruce's decision regarding going to law school?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Bruce spends some alone time throughout the novel to contemplate his life. What does he think about? What conclusions does he arrive at? Explain why he is in a contemplative mood at this point in time.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Stegner is a master at dramatic devices. Choose an example of symbolism, metaphors, and irony. Briefly describe them and identify the technique which they embody.

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