Quiz on Shirley Jackson's 'Showdown'

What genre is Shirley Jackson known for?

• Romance

• Science Fiction

• Horror and Mystery

• Comedy

What is the setting of the story?

• A bustling city

• A small town

• A deserted island

• A mountain village

What is Billy's feeling about his role in the community?

• Unimportant

• Responsible

• Confused

• Indifferent

What does the word "despondently" mean as used in the text?

• Happily

• In low spirits due to loss of hope or courage

• Energetically

• Confidently

What did Thad Ruskin want someone to do after Tom's body lay on the ground?

• Call the police

• Call Susy

• Call an ambulance

• Call his father

What was Billy's father's reaction to the events involving Thad Ruskin?

• He was indifferent

• He was angry

• He was going to settle it tomorrow

• He was going to call the police

What did Billy do after the incident with Tom Harper?

• Went fishing

• Went to school

• Went to the store

• Went to bed

What does Billy notice about his actions over time?

• His time is faster to get to Tom

• He is always late

• He is always on time

• He never crosses the street

Which statement best describes a main theme of the story?

• Achieving perfection is impossible even if given infinite opportunities

• Disobeying parents for selfish reasons will have negative consequences.

• Failing to stop injustices can have unintended consequences for many people

• Grief over the loss of a loved one can have profound effects on one's community.