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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 ridiculous outfit does Richard wear to have dinner with Paul and his family?

2. What item does Sean use to make a noose when he tries to kill himself?

3. What type of music does Sean think is Lauren's favorite?

4. Which of the following smells does NOT assault Paul's nose as soon as he returns home from Boston?

5. What activity does Sean regularly participate in that annoys Lauren?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Clay, and why has he moved to Camden?

2. How has Richard changed from the last time Paul saw him when they were in high school?

3. What happens when Sean goes to the hospital to visit with his sick father?

4. How does the mystery girl find out that she has no chance of having a romantic relationship with Sean?

5. Who is Vittorio, and what type of relationship does he have with Lauren?

6. How does Sean react to the news of Lauren's pregnancy?

7. What happens when Sean and Lauren spend the night together for the first time in his room?

8. What happens when Lauren calls Victor for the first time since he left for Europe?

9. Why does Paul abruptly leaves Boston?

10. After breaking up with Victor, what does Lauren realize about her feelings for Sean?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Many of the characters in this novel can be seen as escapists, meaning that they escape the truth of their lives through various vices. First, create a list of methods through which characters escape their lives. Then, give at least one example of a character who successfully escapes the truth of their life and compare/contrast that experience to another character who does not succeed in escaping the truth of their lives. What do you think Ellis's overall message about escapism is in this novel?

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, the reader sees glimpses into Sean's romantic history, including stories of many ex-girlfriends. First, create a time line of significant romantic relationships in Sean's life and the lessons he learned from each one. Then, use the time line to explain Sean's treatment of Lauren, particularly at the end of their relationship. Do you think Sean's behavior in his relationship with Lauren was inevitable? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

At the end of the novel, Sean seems to have learned nothing from experience and does not seem to have matured. Is there any character in the novel who seems to have learned from past mistakes? Support your answer with specific details from the novel.

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