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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. From what point of view is "The Circular Ruins" written?

2. Which town does Dr. Yu Tsun believe the British intend to attack?

3. Who is Richard Madden?

4. What does the protagonist of "The Circular Ruins" love to do?

5. Who approaches Dr. Stephen Albert's house while he and Dr. Yu Tsun are conversing?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Al-Mu'tasim.

2. In "The Circular Ruins," what fear does the protagonist have for his son?

3. In "The Circular Ruins," what revelation does the protagonist have about his own identity?

4. According to the narrator, what is the most important theme of "The Approach of Al-Mu'tasim"?

5. Describe Dr. Yu Tsun.

6. What is unique about the Babylon lottery?

7. Why does Dr. Yu Tsun murder Dr. Albert?

8. Describe the first dream from "The Circular Ruins."

9. What is discovered among the late Herbert Ashe's belongings?

10. Describe the satire present in "An Examination of the Work of Herbert Quain."

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is absurdist fiction, and how does Borges employ this genre in his work? What relationship exists between absurdism and satire? What is the purpose of absurdist fiction, and how is it often misinterpreted?

Essay Topic 2

How does Borges use the theme of betrayal in his work? According to Borges, what are the long- and short-term effects of betrayal? What lesson does Borges teach about betrayal through "The Form of the Sword"?

Essay Topic 3

What is the symbolism of Moon's scar? Why does he hide his identity when the scar is clearly visible? What impact might the scar have on his ability to find redemption for his actions?

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