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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. Who betrays Kjartan?

2. What does Halldor give Bolli?

3. What is the magical present that King Olaf gave Kjartan that is later stolen?

4. Whose dream unfortunately has come to pass in Chapters 41-50?

5. Who does Helgi kill?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What happens to Bolli, Gudrun's son in the final chapters of the book?

3. How does Thorgils get the help of other soldiers involved in Bolli's death?

4. Describe the conflict leading to Helgi's death.

5. How does the family feud end?

6. What evil act does Snorri the Priest commit?

7. When Thorgils stays at Helgi's estate, what does Helgi do?

8. What mysterious statement does Gudrun say about her love for her husbands and what does it mean?

9. What is the final prophecy regarding Gudrun?

10. How does Gudrun's plans relate to her son?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As with many medieval tales, history is blurred by myths, legends, and religious parables. Compare and contrast these types of stories. In the case of the Laxdaela Saga, there are many references to myth. Research and find an ancient Scandinavian myth of your choice. How does this myth compare to one in the Laxdaela Saga? What elements are believable instantly and which elements seem more fictional? Describe.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast two female characters in Laxdaela Saga. What are the main differences between Gudrun and Hrefna? Which made the better wife? Who loved Kjartan more and in what way? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each?

Essay Topic 3

Create a brief character study of Gudrun. What does she look like? What are her positive personality traits? What are some of her negative characteristics? What are her hopes and fears? What motivates her at this point in his life?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 741 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample