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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. After Kjartan dies, who pushes for vengeance?

2. How old is Gudrun's son when she is ready to enact her plans?

3. What does Gudrun ask Thorgils to do?

4. What does King Olaf prophesize about Thorkel's timber?

5. When Kjartan returns to Iceland, what does he discover about Bolli?

Short Essay Questions

1. After Kjartan dies, what happens to Hrefna?

2. What does Olaf the Peacock do after Kjartan's death?

3. Describe Ingibjorg.

4. What is the final prophecy regarding Gudrun?

5. What ugly fact about Gudrun's personality is revealed through the death of Kjartan?

6. When Kjartan and Bolli arrive in Norway, what does King Olaf do to Kjartan?

7. What does Bolli do that surprises Kjartan?

8. What is Gudrun willing to offer Thorgils and in exchange of what?

9. How does Gudrun extricate herself from marrying Thorgils?

10. When Kjartan refuses a gift from Bolli, what ensues?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the significance of taking a spiritual journey versus just a physical one? Which characters embark upon a spiritual journey, which go on a physical journey, and which experience both? How does this affect Olaf, King of Norway in particular? Describe.

Essay Topic 2

Property plays a significant role in the Laxdaela Saga, handed down from one generation to the next, annexed by conquerors, legislated by the law, divided among offspring and fought over in violent duels. Discuss the changing circumstances of Icelandic settlement in the Commonwealth period, where the individual and collective had to adapt to new circumstances such as a new religious order and laws governing marriage, divorce and inheritances. Do you find that the Laexdala Saga offers you enough background to fully grasp the socioeconomic, political, and cultural changes sweeping Iceland at the time?

Essay Topic 3

The author uses more than one iteration on the theme of chivalry. Identify at least two themes about chivalry in the Laxdaela Saga. Then cite an example to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 818 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample