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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. What is the atmosphere of the ladies' wear department while Denise waits for an interview?

2. It is important to Denise that ____________ knows the truth about what really happened in the basement.

3. Where do Denise and her brothers come from?

4. What is the name of Uncle Baudu's daughter?

5. How old is Denise?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Madame Desforges, how do distinguished women view Mouret's store?

2. What are some of Mouret's business practices that have made him successful?

3. How does the author use the element of foreshadowing in Chapter 7?

4. Why is Mouret uncomfortable with the way Madame Desforges flaunts their relationship?

5. What surprises Mouret about Denise's love for him?

6. What is the irony of Baudu's position on balancing money and family life?

7. What are Denise's reactions to Pauline's suggestion on how to assuage her loneliness?

8. Summarize the story of AU BONHEUR DES DAMES.

9. How does Madame Desforges treat Denise when she realizes that Mouret is interested in Denise?

10. What are Denise's feelings as she begins work at Au Bonheur des Dames?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the significance of the novel's title. What does the author mean by calling the book AU BONHEUR DES DAMES? Cite an example to support your answer. Can you suggest another title which you think is more appropriate for the book?

Essay Topic 2

Explain the role of women in the early 1800s when this novel was written. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms did they have that 21st century women do not have?

Essay Topic 3

There is a lot of symbolism in this story regarding the expansion of Au Bonheur des Dames. What does the growth of the store symbolize for those who work there? For the neighborhood shop owners? For the retail industry in general? Explain.

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