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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. The derogatory term Martin uses for a French person is

2. Sedaris claims he sees so many movies because

3. Why does Hugh get frustrated with Sedaris' multiple purchases?

4. In this essay, Sedaris' itineraries revolve around

5. According to Sedaris, speaking Easy French means

Short Essay Questions

1. What has become Sedaris' habit when friends come to visit him in Paris?

2. What does Sedaris notice about Americans while living in France?

3. Why does Sedaris claim Americans believe French people are arrogant?

4. Why does Sedaris allow the American couple to insult him without admitting he speaks English?

5. While watching the girl dangle from a broken ride at the Paris street fair, what is Sedaris most concerned about?

6. What helps Sedaris overcome his distaste for the Walkman?

7. Why does Sedaris eventually take the Mensa IQ test?

8. In the end, what does the class discussion on Easter lead Sedaris to conclude?

9. Why does the barber refuse to believe Jodi Foster would clean up after her own dog while walking on the beach?

10. Why is Sedaris relieved that he squeals and grabs his neighbors' legs when the men are injured by the vachettes?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Several characters is Sedaris' essays seem to find freedom from the need for others' approval. Write an essay in which you compare Sedaris to any other character in the book, noting whether either person is ultimately free from others' approval. Use examples from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Erich Fromm said, "Integrity simply means not violating one's own identity." Considering Sedaris' own search for identity throughout his essays, write an essay of your own in which you argue whether or not he maintains integrity throughout his experiences. Use specific examples to support your argument.

Essay Topic 3

Consider Sedaris' reflections on French and American culture. Based on these reflections, write an essay in which you argue whether Sedaris seems to "belong" in France or America. Use specific examples from the text to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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