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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 3.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In the first letter, Rilke says he cannot offer critical commentary on the young poet's work. Why?
(a) Rilke believes the young poet's work is flawless.
(b) Rilke cannot read the young poet's work because he is blind.
(c) Rilke says that critical commentary is insufficient for understanding a work of art.
(d) Rilke is ill and does not have the physical stamina to read the young poet's work.

2. What city has Rilke departed from to come to the place where he composes the fourth letter?
(a) Viareggio, near Pisa, Italy.
(b) Paris, France.
(c) Worpswede, near Bremen, Germany.
(d) Berlin, Germany.

3. What does Rilke enclose with his third letter to the young poet?
(a) A list of his most recent books.
(b) A note to Professor Horacek.
(c) Copies of some of his poems.
(d) Names of publishers to whom the young poet can send his work.

4. Why has Rilke come to the place where he composes the fourth letter?
(a) To improve his health.
(b) To write in solitude.
(c) To meet with his publisher.
(d) To visit his family.

5. In the first letter, which of the young poet's pieces does Rilke say demonstrates the most talent?
(a) "Ode to the Hills."
(b) "To Leopardi."
(c) "My Soul."
(d) Sonnet IV.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Rilke tell the young poet about irony?

2. What does Rilke advise the young poet to seek in regard to his sexuality?

3. In the third letter, Rilke requests that the young poet avoid something. What is it that he asks the poet to avoid?

4. Where is Rilke when he writes the third letter?

5. In the fourth letter, who does Rilke say is more similar than people think?

(see the answer key)

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