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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. Which of his friends does Obinze call first for help in getting an NI number and work when he arrives in England?

2. What does the term "WASP" refer to?

3. Who is the black American man that Ifemelu meets on the train in Chapter 17?

4. Why does Obinze seek an arranged marriage in Chapter 23?

5. What is the subject of Ifemelu's blog post in the end of Chapter 17?

Short Essay Questions

1. What differences stand out the most to Ifemelu between Nigeria and America after she's first arrived in the U.S. in Part 2?

2. What does Dike know about his family and his history in Part 2? How is this information influential on his character?

3. How is the relationship between accent and identity illustrated in Chapter 17?

4. How is the theme of identity addressed through symbolism in Chapter 1?

5. How are Obinze's cousin in London and Aunty Uju in America similar in the novel?

6. Describe the narrative point of view in Americanah. From what perspective is the story related?

7. How would you describe Ifemelu's mother's relationship with religion?

8. What symbolism and themes are explored when Ifemelu cuts off her hair in the narrative?

9. How does Ifemelu perceive the differences between the news in America and Nigeria when she first arrives in the U.S.?

10. How is "American Tribalism" defined in the narrative?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Ifemelu’s relationships with Curt and with Blaine in the novel. How does each of these men treat Ifemelu? What are the backgrounds and circumstances of Curt and Blaine? How do these differ? Why do Ifemelu’s relationships with each of these men ultimately come to an end?

Essay Topic 2

What propels Ifemelu’s decision to return to Nigeria? How do Americans in the narrative respond when they learn that Ifemelu is returning to her home country? Why? How does Ifemelu feel about her decision?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and analyze the character of Shan in the novel. How is Shan similar to and different from Ifemelu? What are Ifemelu’s first impressions of Shan? How does their relationship develop in the course of the novel?

(see the answer keys)

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