View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. The story took place before which war?

2. What was the title of Claire-Louise's father?

3. Fowles' novel fit into which literary genre?

4. The doctor told Ourika that in order to save herself she would have to calm her ___.

5. What was the name of the neighborhood in which the business was located?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens after the doctor's first visit?

2. What happened to Ourika when she left Senegal? Who took care of her?

3. What was the next step for Claire de Duras? What major accomplishment did she make during this time?

4. What does Duras' depiction of Ourika tend to continue to be important regarding race and feminism?

5. Discuss the first publication of Ourika. What was unusual about the publication?

6. What occurred after Claire published "Ourika" and her second book, "Edouard?"

7. What about Ourika's presence surprises the doctor? What is Ourika's reasoning for her illness?

8. What major events took place while Claire was living in England? How and when did Claire meet her husband? What was his background?

9. What about Mr. Norman's bookstore was the most exciting to Fowles?

10. What is the basic premise of Claire de Duras' "Ourika?"

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The introduction discusses the non-publication of de Duras' books. "Ourika" was published in a limited private edition in 1823 with "Edouard" being published in a similar format two years later. Aside from Ourika, the first novel, and Edouard, one of de Duras' other books, there were three that were never published. Why? What do you think caused Ourika to refuse to publish the books, either publicly or privately? Do you think de Duras was intimidated by the men that were technically her equals or subordinates? Explain. Why do you think the books were never published posthumously? Do you think de Duras' books would have an audience today?

Essay Topic 2

Charles and Ourika had an unusual relationship from the beginning. Charles, Mme. de B.'s grandson, was quite young when Ourika was introduced into the household. Ourika was still a baby. Explain the relationship between Charles and Ourika. Were they on equal footing within the household? How did Ourika's appearance affect the dynamic of the home? How and where did Charles' older brother fit into the scenario? How did the relationship between Charles and Ourika change as they got older? How did it change once more with the appearance of Anais? What might have happened if Charles and Anais had not met or married?

Essay Topic 3

Ourika's mother died when the girl was very small. She was taken from Senegal by Chevalier de B., a Frenchman, and returned to France to be raised by Mme. de B. Discuss the rescue from Senegal, Ourika's situation and relationship to Chevalier de B. Discuss why the Chevalier took Ourika and his intentions. Also discuss any future involvement with the chevalier.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,188 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample