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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. Time magazine reported that Eastern European women did what the same as they had fifty years ago?

2. In Croatia, what issue became important under new democratic governments?

3. As a child, what affliction did Slavenka suffer from on a trip to Italy?

4. What response did Tanja's article against socialism receive?

5. What did Alemka do for a living?

Short Essay Questions

1. What did Eastern Europe have to fight for, following the fall of Communism?

2. Why was Ulrike's family forced to renounce her?

3. Why was Slavenka startled to find a notated Bible amongst Tanja's possessions?

4. Why did Slavenka have such a difficult time paying her phone bill?

5. Why was Slavenka disappointed after the fall of Communism?

6. Why were the people of the former communistic society surprised when they were allowed to own things?

7. Why did the new president of Croatia create private booths to pay bills?

8. Why was Slavenka upset when her daughter asked for a Barbie?

9. Why was Slavenka worried about some of the things she taught her daughter?

10. Why was Slavenka concerned that Americans could not imagine what it would be like to live in a Communist society?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Slavenka was somewhat of an environmentalist, she balked at government control in this area. Write an essay examining her stance on the government's involvement in the environment. Analyze why she feels the way she does about the topic, citing examples from the text.

Essay Topic 2

When Slavenka bought a fur coat, she felt guilty but decided to wear it on principle.

1) Why did she feel guilty?

2) What did the coat symbolize?

3) Why principles inspired her to wear it anyway?

Essay Topic 3

When Slavenka visited America, she was disgusted to see the "natural look" glamorized in fashion magazines. Write an essay examining the idea of beauty during Communist times and how freedom affected Slavenka's personal appreciation for make-up and individuality.

(see the answer keys)

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