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

Short Answer Questions

1. How is Ira earning the money she is using to buy food for her brother?

2. After the conversation with Biswas in the village, what does Rukmani buy for Kenny?

3. Why does Rukmani feel some relief when her son finally dies of starvation?

4. When Rukmani learns that her son has been killed, what does she also learn he has been accused of?

5. What does Old Granny die from?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The book is entitled "Nectar in a Sieve". Why does the author choose this title? How does the title foreshadow the story of Rukmani's life?

Essay Topic 2

In the Indian village, daughters are seen as a burden, while sons are seen as a benefit.

a. Why are daughters seen as a burden? Give examples from the story to support your reasoning.

b. Why are sons seen as a benefit? Give examples from the story to support your reasoning.

c. Is the same true today, daughters are a burden, while sons are a benefit? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Nathan is portrayed as a kind, albeit poor, farmer. While this is generally true, the reader learns that Nathan is all too human and makes mistakes too.

a. Describe Nathan's character strengths and character weaknesses.

b. Give three concrete examples from the story that reflect one of Nathan's character strengths from the answer above.

c. Give three concrete examples from the story that reflect one of Nathan's character weaknesses from the answer above.

d. Identify Nathan's greatest mistake. Why does he confess to Rukmani and how does she react to his news?

(see the answer keys)

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