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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. How does Siyalo feel about Jezile's prison sentence?

2. Where is Zenzile's husband when Zenzile goes into labor?

3. How does MaBiyela feel after the birth of her first grandchild?

4. What happens to the pass Jezile got for her trip to visit Siyalo?

5. Who is MaBiyela?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Jezile travel to Ixopo at the beginning of Chapter 8?

2. How is Zenzile when Jezile returns from Durban?

3. Describe Nosizwe.

4. What are some of the hardships Siyalo, MaBiyela, and S'naye experience while Jezile is in prison?

5. How does Jezile feel when she returns home?

6. How do Jezile and the other women feel about passes?

7. Why do the women sing hymns while in prison?

8. What happens while Nosizwe is isolated in her prison cell?

9. How does Jezile's relationship with MaBiyela change once she becomes pregnant?

10. Describe Jezile.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The culture of Jezile's village is radically different than other locations in the story. The people of Sigageni have their own unique way of living. Write an essay that explores the details of the culture Jezile lives in. How are the people of Sigageni different than those in Durban? How do they dress? Which languages do they speak? What are some of their beliefs? Use examples from the novel to make the point.

Essay Topic 2

Education is hard to come by when people are oppressed. However, Jezile is determined to see her children grow up educated and well-rounded. Write an essay that explores the theme of education and knowledge within the context of the story. How does Jezile prepare her children for entrance into schooling? Where do her children go to school? How does she ensure that they are educated properly? Be sure the provide examples to support your work.

Essay Topic 3

The people of Jezile's community constantly struggle under the oppressive rule of the white government. In many cases the laws enforced do not favor Jezile or her people. Write an essay that explores the struggle of race and power within the context of the story. In which cases are the people of the village oppressed the most by the government? How do Jezile and the others fight back? What strategies do they use to communicate their opinions to the officials? Provide examples from the novel to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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