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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. What was the subject of the metaphysical novel Flaubert made plans to write?

2. Who always met Flaubert when he returned to Rouen from Mantes?

3. What does Geoffrey wonder about the books that authors don't write?

4. Who was known as Flaubert's second mother?

5. According to Louise, what would Flaubert have made her into if he had his way?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way was Flaubert unkind to Louise?

2. On what points, if any, does Geoffrey personally criticize Flaubert?

3. What does Geoffrey notice about the signs on the train from Rouen?

4. What was Geoffrey's attitude toward his wife's promiscuity?

5. Describe Flaubert's feelings about his home in Croisset

6. Why does Geoffrey think about books that authors didn't write?

7. What were two projects Flaubert started but never finished?

8. What does Geoffrey say is the difference between what people want to know about lovers and what they want to know about authors?

9. What two women are compared and found to be remarkably similar?

10. Why does Geoffrey think that people want to know the worst?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

At one point, Geoffrey examines Flaubert's life from the viewpoint of the road not taken.

1) Describe some of the plans Flaubert had for his life and for books that didn't get written.

2) Explain how the idea of life plans not taken also intrigue Geoffrey for personal reasons.

Essay Topic 2

Geoffrey narrates this book from the first-person perspective. Discuss what advantages and disadvantages you see in the author using this voice. Also comment on the author's choice to let Louise Colet narrate one chapter in her own voice.

Essay Topic 3

The character of Felicite in "Un coeur simple" can be compared to Flaubert.

1) Briefly explain the plot of the story.

2) Explain what similarities that can be drawn between Felicite and Flaubert.

(see the answer keys)

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