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

Short Answer Questions

1. What record does the store make on the day of the big sale?

2. What does Genevieve's death symbolize?

3. To what does Mouret invite Denise?

4. Why is Genevieve so upset at the beginning of Chapter 13?

5. What does Mouret tell Denise to take in his office?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the overall setting for the novel. Why does Zola use the setting he does? What is the time period of the story? How important is the time period to the attitudes and issues of the characters?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast Mouret and Baudu. What are their roles within the retail industry in Paris? What are their core values? What are they willing (or not) to do in order to succeed?

Essay Topic 3

Explain the symbolism of Madame Baudu's wanting the windows opened as she lay dying. What is the symbolism of Baudu's store being draped in white after her death? Identify one other example of symbolism that you find notable.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 237 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample