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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In Sonnet XXXII, what starts the morning with "its truths scrambled" and that "drifts like a poor little boat?"
(a) The sun.
(b) The sea.
(c) The house.
(d) The city.

2. In Sonnet XXXI, what two plants does Neruda use to crown Matilde?
(a) Orange blossoms and lilies.
(b) Laurel and roses.
(c) Vines and lilies.
(d) Laurel and oregano.

3. In Sonnet XLVI, what part of Matilde does Neruda specifically say he wants all for himself?
(a) Her skin.
(b) Her hips.
(c) Her hair.
(d) Her eyes.

4. In Sonnet II, what ultimately brings Neruda and Matilde together?
(a) Their loneliness.
(b) Fate.
(c) The country.
(d) Their love.

5. In Sonnet XX, what phrase does Neruda use to describe Matilde?
(a) A "harried beauty."
(b) A "messy chestnut."
(c) A "lovely beast."
(d) A "simple contradiction."

Short Answer Questions

1. In Sonnet XXV, which of Matilde's qualities does Neruda say "filled the autumn plentiful with gifts?"

2. In Sonnet I, what image does Neruda NOT use to describe Matilde's name?

3. Why does Neruda state that he does not love Matilde in Sonnet XLIV?

4. In Sonnet XVIII, Neruda says that Matilde moves through the mountains as swiftly as what two objects?

5. In Sonnet XXX, Neruda says that Matilde has hair as thick as what kind of tree?

Short Essay Questions

1. List some examples of how Neruda compares Matilde's body to the universe in Sonnet XVI.

2. Explain how Matilde acts as a healer and protector in Sonnet XXIII.

3. What are some aspects of Matilde's ugliness and beauty does Neruda list in Sonnet XX?

4. What is Neruda looking for when he studies other women in Sonnet XLIII?

5. Why does Neruda's description of Matilde's laugh contrast so strongly with her physical appearance in Sonnet L?

6. In Sonnet XI, Neruda is starving and is prowling for sustenance. What "food" is he looking for?

7. How is Neruda affected by the "bitter love" he experiences in Sonnet III?

8. In his dedication, how does Neruda compare his poems to those of other poets?

9. What imagery does Neruda use to compare Matilde to bread in Sonnet XIII?

10. In Sonnet XXIX, why does Neruda say he chose Matilde? How does her background influence his decision?

(see the answer keys)

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