View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where does Genji sit to relax with Yugiri on a hot summer day?

2. How does the Akashi lady feel when she arrives at her new mansion?

3. Who is Genji's go-between for he and the Safflower Princess?

4. What does Genji think about Tamakazura's going to court?

5. Where do the other women in the palace live?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the situation after Nakanokimi receives a letter from Ukifune.

2. What does Genji discover through his relationship with Reikeiden?

3. How does Kaoru find that Niou is having a secret relationship with Ukifune?

4. Why does Genji wish to keep secrets involving Yugao's death?

5. What happens with Genji initially tries to seduce Princess Asagao?

6. Why may it be problematic for Genji to take care of Tamakazura?

7. Why is Tamakazura to be under Genji's care, rather than To no Chujo?

8. Explain the initial situation between Genji and Tamakazura.

9. What about Kaoru's manner makes the women want to joke with him?

10. During Kaoru's meeting with the Emporer, what is the Go board used for?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Could Ukifune's suicide attempt and escape from Kaoru and Niou be a metaphor for something else? What? How do you see this demonstrated in the text?

Essay Topic 2

While on her death bed, Murasaki tells Genji about her wish to become a nun. Genji rejects her wish. Was this cruel of Genji why or why not? Is Genji selfish, an egotistical character? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

What do you believe is the prevailing theme in the novel? Why? How do you interpret this theme?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 757 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample