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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. While Lara works as a housewife and teaches at the gymnasium, what does Pasha do?

2. In the book, Pasternak develops a parallel between the changes occurring in Russia and what other historical event?

3. What prediction does Commissar Strelnikov make during his meeting with Yuri?

4. What mode of transportation does Yuri and his family use as they leave for the town of Varykino in the early spring?

5. What does Yuri tell Commissar Strelnikov he wants out of life?

Short Essay Questions

1. 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?

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

3. Why would Dr. Zhivago work willingly near the front line of battle?

4. Why does Yuri choose to take his family to Varykino?

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

6. How does Lara feel about Komarovsky later in their relationship?

7. Describe the events that lead to Yuri's conscription by the Red Army.

8. What is in Yuri's notebook?

9. Describe Lara and Pasha's life together.

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 how specific emotions influence the characters in the story. What affect does emotion have on their lives and how does it influence their choices and actions? Cite specific events, characters and possible motivators.

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

Compare Yuri to Pamphil. Why does Pamphil lose his mind and Yuri stay sane? Describe events or relationships that might have prepared Yuri to cope with the gruesome nature of war. How did the chaos of war benefit Yuri?

(see the answer keys)

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