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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 the character who picks on Tess do so?

2. What does Mr. Durbeyfield do after he talks to the parson?

3. Why does Angel continue to pursue Tess?

4. What do Angel and Tess find they have in common, that surprises them both?

5. What does Alec do in Chapter 9 that Tess doesn't like?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the scene concerning the accident with the horse. What does that show about Tess's character?

2. How does Tess learn that Angel is in love with her, and what is her reaction?

3. What prompts Tess to leave the dance early, and what does this scene tell readers about her character?

4. What arguments does Angel give his parents to convince them that marrying Tess is a good idea?

5. What is Tess's reaction when Angel finally confesses his love for her?

6. In Chapter 15, how does Hardy show that Tess is still suffering from depression and hopelessness?

7. What is the local superstition about butter with a funny taste?

8. In Chapter 6, how is Alec portrayed?

9. Why is Tess upset when her baby becomes ill and dies, and what does this show about her attitude towards religion?

10. What kind of personality is Tess's mother?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At various points throughout the book, Tess seems undecided about whether she should tell Angel about her past. Do you think she should tell him, or not? If so, when should she tell him? In either case, back up your opinion with good reasons.

Essay Topic 2

Why does Hardy describe Tess and Angel in terms of Adam and Eve? Discuss what this sort of description implies about their relationship, and the way they regard each other. Is there any hope for a relationship of this kind?

Essay Topic 3

In Chapter 47, Alec tells Tess that because she is the cause of his religious backsliding, she is obligated to marry him and share in his fate. What does he mean by this, and does his reasoning make any sense?

(see the answer keys)

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