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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through “The American Exception” .

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In “The American Exception,” Smith says that nobody in 1945 wanted to go back to 1939 unless it was to do what?
(a) Vote for a different leader.
(b) Change the course of history.
(c) Resurrect the dead.
(d) Be younger.

2. What is the setting at the start of “Peonies”?
(a) The Brooklyn Gardens.
(b) Jefferson Market Garden.
(c) The New York Botanical Gardens.
(d) The Manhattan Garden.

3. What former British Prime Minister does Smith reference at the end of “The American Exception”?
(a) Winston Churchill.
(b) Margaret Thatcher.
(c) Tony Blair.
(d) Neville Chamberlain.

4. Who is the author of the essay “Peonies”?
(a) Zinnia Smith.
(b) Zora Smith.
(c) Zelda Smith.
(d) Zadie Smith.

5. Nabokov said the inspiration for his novel came from an article about an ape that drew what?
(a) His own cage.
(b) His self-portrait.
(c) Bananas.
(d) His captors.

Short Answer Questions

1. Smith says that despite America’s feelings of being untouchable, as the pandemic progressed, what did America appear to lead the world in?

2. What does Smith say the link to long life in America is?

3. Which philosopher does Smith cite when discussing the difference between the thinker and his real life?

4. While looking on at the garden, Smith thinks of a quote by Nabokov regarding his inspiration for which novel?

5. Who did people “thank God for” (16) after the pandemic when, Smith says, they were not seen as worthy of a $15/ hour minimum wage prior to the pandemic?

(see the answer key)

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