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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 does Yasin try to have sex with in Chapter 41?

2. What is Fahmy terrified to see puddles of at al-Husayn?

3. What does Amina wish to do for Khadija after growing concerned about her in Chapter 38?

4. Which of the following things does Ahmad not do when reprimanding Yasin in Chapter 58?

5. Who gets married in Chapter 47?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do Kamal and Umm Hanafi tell the others happened when they were chased by British troops?

2. What is the nature of Iffat's visit to Ahmad's store in Chapter 60?

3. How is Ahmad's visit with Umm Maryam described in Chapter 51?

4. How is Amina's homecoming described after Ahmad sends her a pardon to return?

5. How is Kamal's life affected by the revolution according to Chapter 55?

6. What does Jalia confront Ahmad about when she joins the men's party during Aisha's marriage celebration?

7. How is Yasin's wedding reception described?

8. How does Kamal tell Ahmad that he wants Amina back in their house?

9. How does Ahmad participate in politics according to his actions in Chapter 49?

10. Why does Fahmy believe British troops have set up camp across from Abd al-Jawad's doorstep?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Examine the author's portrayal of Egyptian society in the book, and note if Ahmad fits into this portrayal or not. What clues can be found to suggest that Ahmad's household rituals are more extreme than the norm in Egypt?

Essay Topic 2

Examine the symbolism of author's use of religious and political figures in the book, notably Martyr al-Husayn and Sa'd Zaghlul. What tone might the author be trying to set to describe the impact these figures had on Egyptian culture?

Essay Topic 3

The concept of marriage is one subject that is discussed by numerous characters throughout the book, each with his/her own ideas of what it represents.

Part 1.) How do characters like Aisha and Khadija feel about the notion of marriage?

Part 2.) What reasons does Ahmad have for not allowing his children to be married when they wish?

Part 3.) What is telling about the nature of marriage in the book based on Yasin's experience?

(see the answer keys)

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