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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What surprises Michel about the work he and his father do together?
(a) The wealth they accumulate.
(b) Nothing -- Michel runs the show.
(c) How little they are paid.
(d) How much more work remains.

2. In Part 1, Chapter 9, why does Michel doubt his ability to take good care of his wife?
(a) He doesn't like to do much work.
(b) He knows he isn't very smart.
(c) He knows his limits and capabilities, especially now that he's self-absorbed.
(d) He realizes he doesn't love her.

3. What thoughts does Michel have while watching his wife sleep after making love to her the first time?
(a) He is overcome with the staggering thought that he is tied down to her for life.
(b) He is overcome with joy at the sheer physical experience.
(c) He is overcome with guilt for the feelings he has toward young boys.
(d) He is overcome with love for her and appreciates her devotion.

4. In Part 1, Chapter 7, how does Michel try to act around his wife?
(a) Like a studly man she can be proud of.
(b) Like he is better than she is.
(c) Like his old self in demeanor.
(d) Like her hero.

5. Michel ghostwrites books for...
(a) His father.
(b) An educational company.
(c) His university.
(d) The king.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which institution offers the job to Michel in Part 1, Chapter 9?

2. What does Michel's weakened condition show him?

3. What does one of the Arab boys steal from Michel's hotel room?

4. Where do Michel and his wife settle down for him to resume his studies?

5. At the end of Part 1, Chapters 5-7, what does the reader learn that Michel's change in attitude and appearance demonstrate?

Short Essay Questions

1. Michel and Marceline decide to leave Biskra before the harsh winter weather arrives. What does Michel do on his last night in town and how does he feel?

2. What is Menalque's theory of why Michel let the boy in Biskra steal Marceline's scissors?

3. Michel receives information in the mail about tuberculosis from a friend. After reading that information, what changes does Michel make in his treatment and why?

4. What does Michel approve pricey expenditures for and why?

5. When is the novel written and what time period serves as the novel's setting?

6. How does Michel feel about his studies after returning from his honeymoon? Why does he feel this way?

7. Why does Michel suddenly take an interest in the operation of the family estate?

8. How much time does Michel tell his friends has passed since Marceline's death, and where is she buried?

9. Why does Michel want to travel in Part 3?

10. What is ironic about Michel's decision to stay at the family estate while pursuing his academic interests?

(see the answer keys)

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