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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. Why doesn't Agba speak to the Sultan?

2. What do the two signs on the foal signify?

3. What prophecy does Signor Achmet make in Chapter 5?

4. What do the horses and their stable boys look like to the Duke when they arrive in France?

5. Which horse wins the race in the Prologue?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the foal born in Chapter 3.

2. What is the significance of the white spot on the foal's heel?

3. What special treatment does Agba give the pregnant mare?

4. How does the old man in Chapter 2 describe the mare?

5. How is Sham different from the other colts in the stable?

6. Describe the gifts the Sultan gives the horses before they leave for France.

7. Why is Agba summoned to see the Sultan?

8. Why doesn't Agba report the foal's birth to Signor Achmet?

9. Describe Agba.

10. How does Agba's disability save his life?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss how different characters throughout the novel view Sham's potential as a racehorse. What factors influence the perception of Sham's potential? Which characters are able to discern Sham's true potential, and why?

Essay Topic 2

What role does politics play in Sham's survival? Describe how Sham's life is affected by Moroccan, French, and English politics. Which elements of each political system benefit Sham's character? Which elements of each political system harm Sham's character?

Essay Topic 3

Describe the relationship Agba has with animals in the novel. How do his relationships with the animals in the novel affect his character? Why are these relationships important to Agba and how do they provide fulfillment for his character?

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