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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. The book begins with what type of scene?

2. What is Ivan's profession?

3. Why does Yuri go to the town of Yuriatin?

4. In October, which political group wins the fight and establishes political power?

5. When Yura and his uncle live in a house owned by the Gromekos, which character also lives in the house?

Short Essay Questions

1. How do Yuri and his family get food and supplies for their trip to Varykino?

2. How could Yuri's life have been different if he had not tried to return to Lara the night he was conscripted by the Red Army?

3. Give an example of the brutality of war that is described in Dr. Zhivago.

4. Describe the beginning Lara and Pasha's relationship.

5. Describe what happens to Yura during and after his mother's funeral.

6. Describe the type of work Yuri and his family do to survive when they first arrive in Varykino.

7. What does Tonia think of the information she receives in Yuri's letter from Meliuzeievo?

8. Why does Lara follow Pasha to the front lines?

9. Describe how the snow is cleared from the train tracks.

10. How does Lara attempt end her relationship with Komarovsky?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Pasha's "secret identity." Why did he feel it was necessary to assume a new name and how did this decision affect the development of his character? What affect did his new identity have on his relationships and actions? Cite specific examples from the book.

Essay Topic 2

In the book, character and events seem to coincidentally occur at just the right (or wrong) time. What role does fate play in Yuri's life? What role does fate play in Lara's life? Give specific examples from the book.

Essay Topic 3

Komarovsky keeps appearing to Lara unwanted and uninvited. How do Komarovsky's actions affect the development of his character in the story? How does his influence affect Lara and her daughter, Tania?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 775 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample