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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 Paola offer that Fina does not for Profane?

2. What does Angel do for a living?

3. What does the switch on Hugo's body do?

4. When Captain Hugh leaves Victoria's room, who does he see in a florist shop outside?

5. In a cafe in Egypt, what does the waiter P. Aieul hear two Englishmen talk about?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when Benny goes to the ferry and meets Paola?

2. What appears to be a problem in Rachel and Benny's relationship?

3. Describe Lepsius.

4. How is the apathy of the Whole Sick Crew evident in Winsome's behavior?

5. Describe Victoria in Chapter 7.

6. Describe the Sailor's Grave.

7. How does Dr. Schoenmaker view Esther in Chapter 4?

8. Why does Stencil go to the dentist and what does he discover?

9. Why does Esther fall in love with her plastic surgeon?

10. Who does Benny meet on the subway and who do they introduce him to?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Rachel and Paola, two women that Benny Profane gets involved with. What are the main differences between them? Which made the better partner and why? What are strengths and weaknesses of each?

Essay Topic 2

V. is an enigmatic and famous character in this book. Explain the history of V. as you know it. When did the character first appear in the book? What culture seemingly created V.? How has the character changed throughout history? Why do you think Pynchon chose V. as a main character?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of loss. Identify at least two themes about loss in the stories. Then cite an example to support your answer.

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