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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. How does Bernarda feel about Sierva?

2. What does Ygnacio's father forbid?

3. How did the twelve-year-old girl from the legend die?

4. What does the bishop say the Marquis must do to save Sierva?

5. From what continent do Sierva's language skills come from?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Dr. Abrenuncio believe about Sierva and her brush with rabies and what treatment does he recommend?

2. Why does Sierva prefer to live in the slave quarters instead of the mansion?

3. Why does Olivia escape from the madhouse and what is the result?

4. What treatments does Sierva receive in her father's effort to cure her "madness?"

5. How does Ygnacio's first wife deal with her husband?

6. How does the friendship between Ygnacio and Dr. Abrenuncio begin?

7. Describe Bernarda's relationship with Judas.

8. Why must the convent not cut Sierva's hair?

9. What is the connection between the skull found in the crypts of the convent and the author's memories of a legend?

10. Why does Ygnacio's father object to his son marrying Dulce Olivia?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

This novel is something of a Biblical allegory. Citing specific examples from the text, discuss how this novel mirrors the Bible, including (but not limited to) a Christ- like figure, sacrifice for the benefit of others, and persecution. Cite specific examples from the text to support your statements.

Essay Topic 2

Citing specific examples from the text, write an essay examining Martina, including the following:

- Her personality and characteristics.

- The symbolism of a murderer displaying a Christian attitude. Part

- Why a sympathetic character such as Martina would have murdered nuns.

- The author's intent with the character of Martina.

Essay Topic 3

What is significant about "The Four Books of Amadis of Gaul?" Why is this book banned by the church and confiscated from Cayetano in his youth? How does this relate to Dr. Abrenuncio and, especially, Father Cayetano? Do the classic literary connections "The Four Books of Amadis of Gaul" mirror any changes that happen to the doctor and the priest? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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