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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. How long does it take Monsieur Rouault to begin walking after he has broken his leg?

2. After she throws herself into domestic life, how does Emma's appearance change?

3. How does Rodolphe try to get on Charles' good side?

4. Why don't the fireworks go off at the end of the agricultural fair?

5. What is the main topic of conversation at Emma's first dinner in Yonville?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Emma's attitude change towards what other people think of her in Part 2: Chapter 12?

2. Describe Emma's father's reaction to her death in Part 3: Chapter 10.

3. What elements from "Lucie de Lammermoor" reflect themes or events in Emma's own life in Part 2: Chapter 15?

4. Part 2: Chapter 7 introduces the reader to the foreshadowed relationship between Rodolphe and Emma. What are Rodolphe's perceptions of Emma's character?

5. Monsieur Binet is able to see Emma's true nature in Part 2: Chapter 10, but does not try to create a scandal. Why do you think he chooses not to reveal her indiscretions?

6. What character types do the animals at the fair symbolize in Chapter 2: Part 8?

7. By Part 2: Chapter 7, do you think Emma has become a sympathetic character? Why or why not?

8. How are the other people attending the opera described in Part 2: Chapter 15?

9. How does Emma show in Chapter 4 that makes her wedding guests concerned about her?

10. Homais and Charles are a study in contrasts. Explain their differences as revealed in Part 2: Chapter 11.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Pathos is an emotional response to a text. Hippolyte and the blind beggar both embody tragic characteristics and are characters that should inspire much pathos in the reader, however in the way they are presented, they often do not. Do you see these two characters as sympathetic? Why or why not? Specifically note how they are described in the text. What do you think is Flaubert's purpose in describing them this way?

Essay Topic 2

Organized religion is critiqued and mocked throughout the novel, particularly by the actions of Monsieur Homais. Do you think Flaubert believes religion is enough to satisfy humanity's need for peace and satisfaction? Specifically comment on the following issues and how Flaubert uses them to critique organized faith:

• Emma's time at the convent.

• The character of Abbé Bournisien.

• The Cathedral at Rouen.

• Emma's funeral rites.

Essay Topic 3

Although Emma is very much a Victorian woman, her story could also take place in modern times. How might her situation in life be different if she was alive in the 21st century? What options may have been open to her as a modern woman that weren't in the time of the book? What situations would be the same?

(see the answer keys)

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