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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section 7.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Rilke say humans have grown away from because of their lack of courage?
(a) Nature.
(b) The creative self.
(c) Art.
(d) The spiritual aspects of existence.

2. In letter five, what statue does Rilke mention is near his place of residence?
(a) A statue by Rodin.
(b) An equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.
(c) An equestrian statue of Julius Caesar.
(d) A statue of Ovid.

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

4. In the first letter, what does Rilke advise the poet to do to improve his writing?
(a) Emulate the best classical poets.
(b) Examine his inner self to determine what writing means to him.
(c) Begin studying music.
(d) Take a poetry class with Rilke.

5. How long ago has Rilke departed from the city he has left before arriving at the place where he composes the fourth letter?
(a) 10 days.
(b) Two days.
(c) A month.
(d) Two weeks.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Rilke say is wrong with men?

2. What does the young poet write about in his third letter to Rilke that Rilke mentions in his letter back to the young poet?

3. In the fourth letter, what does Rilke instruct the young poet to do regarding the poet's unanswered questions?

4. What two aspects of human life does Rilke claim have no explanation?

5. Why does Rilke believe that Rome makes one sad for the first few days of visiting it?

(see the answer key)

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