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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. As Rainsford begins to walk along the cliffside, what does he notice in the jungle?

2. What is the first thing that Rainsford does once he is on top of the cliffs?

3. To what ethnic group do Zaroff and his servant belong?

4. What does Zaroff say is the problem with ordinary big-game hunting?

5. Why did Zaroff leave Russia?

Short Essay Questions

1. Once he falls overboard, what does Rainsford do and what does it show about his character?

2. How does the discussion of the Cape buffalo introduce a possible meaning of the story's title?

3. Describe the physical setting of Ship-Trap Island.

4. Describe Rainsford's first impression of General Zaroff.

5. What warning signs are present in Zaroff's banter about Cossacks?

6. What is the disagreement between Rainsford and Whitney?

7. In what ways does Zaroff show himself to be a good host?

8. Describe Zaroff's dining room.

9. Describe the early warning signs about Zaroff's island that Rainsford ignores.

10. Describe General Zaroff's house.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay in which you analyze the imagery used in "The Most Dangerous Game." Identify patterns in Connell's use of imagery; create a thesis that connects these patterns to the story's overall meaning. Be sure to use textual evidence to support your claims.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay in which you analyze the title of the story "The Most Dangerous Game." In your essay, explain how the multiple layers of meaning in the title develop throughout the story and how these multiple layers support the story's meaning. Be sure to use textual evidence to support your claims.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about the story's ending in which you consider this question: Is Rainsford a hypocrite? Think about Rainsford's statements about hunting versus murder and animals versus humans. Are his beliefs consistent or do they seem to be designed to allow him to do something that he suspects might be wrong? How does this question relate to the ending of the story and his choice to seek out and kill Zaroff instead of finding and using Zaroff's boat? Be sure to use textual evidence to support your claims.

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