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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why were Zaita's parents happy when he was born?
(a) They no longer had to rent a baby to beg with.
(b) His laughter delighted them.
(c) His beauty delighted them.
(d) They were proud to have a son.

2. Why do people in the alley avoid Zaita?
(a) His unfriendly attitude.
(b) His thieving nature.
(c) His offensive odor.
(d) His offensive profession.

3. Why is Umma Hamida pleased with Salim Alwan's offer?
(a) The marriage will make Hamida happy.
(b) The marriage will get Hamida out of her house.
(c) The marriage will be a financial benefit to her.
(d) The marriage will be a professional success for her.

4. Why does Hamida envy Jewish girls?
(a) They have nice clothes.
(b) They have automobiles.
(c) They have jobs.
(d) They have boyfriends.

5. How does Kirsha defend his lustful conduct?
(a) "I can't help myself."
(b) "I am trying to save the boy from harm."
(c) "There is no evil in what I do."
(d) "All men do many things that are dirty."

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is the only person in constant motion in the cafe?

2. How does Sanker disrespect the old poet?

3. What bad habits does Kirsha have?

4. What does Kirsha believe is replacing public recitations?

5. How does Zaita react to being compared with Jaada?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Radwan Hussainy advise Umm Hamida that Abbas will be a better husband for Hamida than Salim Alwan?

2. What conflicting emotions does Hamida feel for the stranger who keeps staring at her?

3. When Abbas comes home to the alley on holiday, Uncle Kamil follows him to the cafe, and then asks Abbas to return to the sweet shop with him. Why is Uncle Kamil staying so close to Abbas?

4. When Kirsha's wife comes to the cafe to assail him with his wrongdoing, he blames himself. Why does he think he deserves her wrath?

5. Why does Ibrahim Faraj refrain from having sex with Hamida?

6. What is the difference between the way Abbas feels about Midaq Alley and the way Hussain Kirsha feels?

7. Why does Radwan Hussainy tell Salim Alwan that he is better off with his sickness than others are with their health?

8. How does Radwan Hussainy behave toward his wife that is in contrast to his treatment of all others?

9. Why has Salim Alwan decided to take a second wife?

10. Why does Radwan Hussainy feel guilty for the wrongdoing of Dr. Booshy and Zaita?

(see the answer keys)

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