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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Abbas want to do while he's on holiday?

2. What does Kirsha forbid in the workplace when he returns after his heart attack?

3. How do Salim Alwan's sons react to his hostility?

4. Why is Uncle Kamil unable to vote?

5. How does the stranger delight Sanker?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze the character of Radwan Hussainy. How has he managed to live happily while enduring great sorrow and loss? What effect does his advice have on those who ask him for it? What do you see as Mahfouz' purpose in making Radwan Hussainy a central character in his depiction of the alley?

Essay Topic 2

Midaq Alley is set in a time of great cultural upheaval and change. What changes take place in the culture of the alley during the course of this story? Do you see generational differences between characters of different ages? Use examples from the text in your analysis.

Essay Topic 3

Women in Midaq Alley have very limited spheres of action. What can they do to improve their situations? Consider their access to health care, education, employment, and marriage prospects.

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This section contains 256 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample