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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part 2: Xavier, pp. 65-89.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does the artist paint two X's on Maman's face?
(a) So that her original existence means nothing.
(b) To illustrate his secret hatred of women.
(c) To show his cancellation of humanity.
(d) So that he can recreate her.

2. According to the poet's father, where was the poet conceived?
(a) In the countryside near Prague.
(b) In the mother's apartment.
(c) In the apartment of his colleague.
(d) On a park bench.

3. Why do Jaromil's drawings favor dogs?
(a) He sees dogs as the symbol of virtue and natural goodness.
(b) He loves dogs better than any other animal.
(c) He cannot draw any other animal.
(d) He draws dogs best.

4. Why does Jaromil begin taking lesson from the art teacher?
(a) His art was consistently mediocre.
(b) He thought the art teacher would make a good father.
(c) Maman took an interest in the art teacher.
(d) He was tired of drawing people with dogs' heads.

5. Why does Maman welcome her pregnancy?
(a) She sees it as the final step of independence from her parents.
(b) She sees the family as a trio filling the universe.
(c) She thinks perhaps her husband will truly love her.
(d) She has always wanted to be a mother.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Maman not want to go to the lake on vacation?

2. Why does the blond girl wear a beautiful white dress to the dance hall?

3. Why does Maman push away her husband's hand when he wants to make love?

4. Which famous composer's music is played at the blond girl's funeral?

5. What does Xavier find most compelling about the woman in the house?

(see the answer key)

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