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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Chaval announce when he comes to the Advantage during the strike?

2. By January, what problem do the striking miners face?

3. What do the workers do at the Hennebeaus' house?

4. Of what does Lantier try to convince Deneulin?

5. What do the Montsou miners do at the Mirou pit?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As the miners march toward Montsou, their numbers grow; the more they grow, the more they feel certain of their success. This anticipated success leads the striking miners to commit acts they would not have the strength to perform individually.

1. How do the miners demonstrate the power of a crowd?

2. There are also examples of the power of an individual in the book. What were two of them?

Essay Topic 2

The first chapter also introduces the "monster," which is the huge cone-like structure set over the pit that is described as a beast ready to eat the men that slave for it.

1. How did you feel about the mine from the way Zola described it?

2. Using metaphors and analogy describe the mine as Zola sees it.

3. Why do you think Zola used metaphors in his descriptions?

Essay Topic 3

Pluchart, Lantier's friend and the director of the International for the district, represents the unions and their self-serving attitude.

1. How does the behavior of the union support this statement?

2. Do you think the miners would have been better off if the union had never become involved in their lives? Why or Why not?

3. Do you think unions have a function in today's work world in consideration of all the labor laws? Why or why not?

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