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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through "The Case for a Tragic Optimism" (through page 179).

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Where does the author claim that most of the extermination took place?
(a) During mass transport, on the road to the camps.
(b) In the big, famous camps.
(c) In small camps.
(d) In camps in northern Europe.

2. What happened to the senior block warden who had a dream that he would be free on March thirtieth?
(a) He died on March thirty-first.
(b) He committed suicide a month prior.
(c) He fell ill on March thirty-first and died a month later.
(d) He had another dream on March thirtieth that they would be freed on July third.

3. What symptom characterizes the first mental phase of prisoners in concentration camps?
(a) Depression.
(b) Shock.
(c) Grief.
(d) Fatigue.

4. What does Frankl argue is the meaning of life?
(a) It varies.
(b) Love.
(c) Service.
(d) Humility.

5. Why were dead men thrown on trains transporting prisoners to different concentration camps?
(a) If their number was on the list, their life was considered less important than their number.
(b) They were sent to spread disease to the other prisoners on the train.
(c) This was a cruel joke of the SS who wanted to horrify the other riders.
(d) They were there to take up space, so that the prisoners would not have much room.

Short Answer Questions

1. How is humor characterized in camp life?

2. What rule did the author establish for himself in Auschwitz?

3. What does Frankl write about those with very difficult circumstances, such as being diagnosed with a terminal illness?

4. How does Frankl write that one forces oneself to be optimistic?

5. Why does Frankl believe that man behaves morally?

(see the answer key)

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