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

Short Answer Questions

1. To what does Bouchalka compare the cakes served at Cressida's home?

2. Why does Cressida take Bouchalka aside to converse with him?

3. Did Bouchalka recognize Cressida in the restaurant when he was playing the violin?

4. How does Bouchalka explain Cressida's discovery?

5. Why does Cressida want Carrie to come to Cressida's house on Sunday?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Cressida is described by various adjectives throughout the story, as well as through her actions. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Name three of Cressida's most outstanding characteristics and give an example of it in the story.

2. Is Cressida presented as a well-rounded character? Why or why not? Give examples to support your stance.

3. Would those characteristics thought to be admirable of Cressida in her era still be considered admirable today? Name the characteristics you consider and explain your stance.

Essay Topic 2

For much of Cressida's professional life, she is on top of the game. She is often chosen for a part over other better singers because of her vitality and sureness. In the latter part of her life, her energy flags as does her career. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Why do you think Cressida is more successful when she enjoys her singing as opposed to when she has to sing to earn money when she is married to her last husband?

2. Do personal relationships impact the quality of output by an artist?

3. How can a personal relationship enhance one's artistic production?

4. Is there anything you feel so passionate about that you think a romantic relationship would hinder? Explain your stance.

Essay Topic 3

Cather ends the story with a quote in German. Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using detailed examples from the book and from your own life experience:

1. Find a translation of the quote on the Internet or ask a German-speaking person to translate it and then write an essay as to how that quote is or is not relevant to your life.

2. Find a translation of the quote on the Internet or ask a German-speaking person to translate it and then write an essay as to how that quote illustrates the major theme of this story.

3. After translating this quote via the Internet or other means, write an essay as to whether you think this is the best quote with which to end this story. Explain. Come up with an alternate quote that you think is as relevant or more relevant and explain why you think this way.

(see the answer keys)

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