Questions most commonly set for examination

A question about character Discuss the main character Discuss how 2 characters in the book compare and contrast The author’s conception of, and presentation of, character

A question about the society of the novel Discuss the world the novelist presents, in particular the author’s strength in presenting a convincing sense of the characteristic feel and prevailing values of a certain society How the society and the characters of the novel interrelate

A question about the author’s attitude/values/morality/view of life What view of life the novel reveals, what the author values and what he condemns

A question about style or method Explain why the author chooses to write the way he does

An evaluation question Given a critical statement by the author, students are to discuss it

A good essay should consist A strong, clear argument, closely illustrated from the relevant novel or novels