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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. Which poetic form is discovered among Pierre Menard's manuscripts?

2. What does the protagonist of "The Circular Ruins" dream of doing?

3. Who is the student searching for in "The Approach to Al-Mu'tasim"?

4. Where does the narrator discover "The First Encyclopedia of Tlon"?

5. Which poem does Pierre Menard describe as being an essential work of literature?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who are the Purifiers?

2. What is the significance of the student in "The Approach of Al-Mu'tasim" relinquishing his social status?

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

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

5. How is the universe described in "The Library of Babel"?

6. In "Tlon, Uqbar, Orbis Tertius," what dispute arises from the discussion about mirrors?

7. What is the most important possession to the people of Tlon?

8. Describe Dr. Yu Tsun.

9. How does Dr. Yu Tsun arrive at Stephen Albert's house?

10. Describe the second dream from "The Circular Ruins."

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss Borges' view of redemption. Who is Al-Mu'tasim? What is the significance of the student's journey? How does the student find redemption?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Borges' use of labyrinths in "Ficciones." How does a labyrinth differ from a maze? How do characters create labyrinths, and what purpose do they serve? What warnings does Borges give his readers through the use of labyrinths?

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