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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Tadzio wearing when Aschenbach first sees him?

2. Aschenbach, in his decision to stay, is ignoring his _________.

3. How does Aschenbach spend his idle time as his affections for Tadzio increase?

4. What sense do the boatmen give to Aschenbach?

5. Aschenbach feels ______ when the Polish family isn't at dinner.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"Death In Venice" uses outside information and references to build up the vividness of the scene, story, and characters.

1) Explore Mann's use of Greek mythology and figures.

2) Explore Mann's use of outside, unexplained references (psychology, philosophy, politics, etc.)

3) Argue whether or not the book would have been complete without an understanding of this outside information. Argue whether or not it is a crutch.

Essay Topic 2

In "Death In Venice," Mann uses colors to give dimension to characters and to represent themes. Write an essay discussing Mann's use of reoccurring colors to represent the themes and flesh out characters. What do these colors represent? When does Mann chose to use color? How can the development of the story and the transformation of Aschenbach be traced through color?

Essay Topic 3

In what way do other characters steer Aschenbach? What does this say about Aschenbach and his mind, since his direct interactions are either brief or silent?

(see the answer keys)

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