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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. Who, upon her arrival, takes a special interest in Sierva?

2. What is striking about Sierva's dream as she relates it to Cayetano?

3. In what state is Cayetano over Sierva during the Viceroy's visit?

4. How do Cayetano and Dr. Abrenuncio communicate?

5. How does Cayetano, in chapter three, win Sierva's trust?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Cayetano begin to feel about Sierva at the end of Chapter 3?

2. What evidence does the Bishop present that argue for Sierva being possessed?

3. Describe Father Cayetano's character.

4. What are Dr. Abrenuncio's views on the Holy Office and exorcisms?

5. Describe the centuries-old conflict between the convent and the Bishop.

6. What does the Abbess complain about to the Bishop in Chapter 4?

7. How do Cayetano and Dr. Abrenuncio bond?

8. How does Martina help Sierva?

9. What is significant about the book Cayetano speaks of to Dr. Abrenuncio?

10. How does the Abbess treat Sierva in Cayetano's presence?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Bernarda is Sierva's mother, who hates the child and prefers to spend her days in drug-induced decadence. Citing specific examples from the text and including a strong thesis statement, write an essay examining their relationship and character traits, including the following:

- Compare and contrast the personalities of these women.

- Discuss how characters feel about Bernarda and Sierva regarding their morals and apparent "wildness."

- Discuss, analyze, and compare their relationships to Judas Iscariote and Father Cayetano.

- Analyze how Bernarda and Sierva feel about each other and why.

Essay Topic 2

Sierva asks her father if love can truly conquer all. His response is that, while it can, it would be best if she did not believe it. Citing specific examples from the text, discuss the statement within the overall context of this novel. How does this statement ring true for Sierva? How does it fail? Does it appear that she believes love can conquer all? In the end, does it? Provide thorough explanations for each statement.

Essay Topic 3

Citing specific examples from the text, write an essay discussing one of the following:

- The symbolism of Sierva's hair.

- Father Aquino as a martyr.

- Father Cayetano's work with the lepers and his personal wish to contract leprosy.

(see the answer keys)

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