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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. When Karen arrives, where does she find Mama Lola?

2. How does Mama Lola discover information through her sister-in-law?

3. What does she learn from her sister-in-law?

4. She develops a good reputation within the Haitian community because of what?

5. For how long do the ceremonies go on?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is made clear in this chapter that we as Americans often fail to understand?

2. Describe Karen's understanding of Alourdes' "Queen Bee" behavior.

3. What important themes in the world of Haitian Vodou are seen in this chapter?

4. How does this similarity relate to their decision to take up the ason and serve the spirits?

5. How is jealousy significant in Haiti?

6. How is the legend of Joseph Binbin Mauvant important?

7. What does the author say is the purpose of every other chapter in the book? What does this reveal about the author's role in writing these chapters?

8. How does this culture affect men like Macena? How is Sina finally able to escape him? How does this lead to a change in her life?

9. Describe Vodou rituals and ceremonies as a whole. Give an example from this chapter that supports this.

10. How do you feel about Karen marrying Ogou? How does this marriage change the path of Karen's life? What does this also teach her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The truth about Vodou is told in this book.

Part 1) Summarize Vodouism. What are the truths about Vodouism? How do these truths compare to your initial thoughts about Vodou?

Part 2) How does Vodouism compare to other religions? What are the reasons for these similarities and differences?

Part 3) How has your opinion and knowledge of Vodou changed throughout the course of this book? How might this influence your opinions of other religions and beliefs?

Essay Topic 2

Imagery and metaphors are used frequently throughout this book.

Part 1) Describe the imagery and metaphors found in this book. How are these connected to the stories in this book and the book as a whole?

Part 2) How is imagery important in oral traditions? Why is it so important? How is this importance reflected in this book?

Part 3) What other literary devices can be found in this book? How are they used? Are they effective? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Gede's dominon is the realm of death.

Part 1) Who is Gede? What is his role in Vodou? How important is he in Vodouism? Why? What is his connection to the other Vodou spirits?

Part 2) To whom can Gede be compared? What are the similarities and differences between Gede and this person or spirit? What do these spirits reveal about those who believe in them?

Part 3) What is the female version of Gede? How is she coming into existence? Why is she coming into existence? What does belief in her reveal about Haitian and Vodou culture?

(see the answer keys)

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