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

Short Answer Questions

1. What symbolizes life and death in Chapter 13?

2. What color covers Baudu's shop after the deaths?

3. Who brings her children to the store as a form of entertainment?

4. What does Baudu hope will energize his shop?

5. What decision has Mouret made at the beginning of Chapter 9?

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

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.

Essay Topic 3

Zola is quoted as saying, "I am little concerned with beauty or perfection. I don't care for the great centuries. All I care about is life, struggle, intensity. I am at ease in my generation," (My Hates, 1866.) How is this philosophy apparent in AU BONHEUR DES DAMES?

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