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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Commentary, Lines 1-4: I was the shadow of the waxwing slain, etc. through Line 70: the new TV.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Kinbote want us to believe was the catalyst for John Shade's choice to set "Pale Fire" during the winter months?
(a) The Zemblan King's assasination in January.
(b) Shade meeting Kinbote during the previous winter.
(c) The great tragedy Shade has experienced during winter.
(d) Bird flying south for the winter.

2. John Shade is skeptical but he wants to believe in what?
(a) The after-life.
(b) His daughther is still alive.
(c) His lineage of Zemblan Kings.
(d) Religion.

3. Which of the following best describes the pervading theme of Canto Four?
(a) John Shade's relationship with Charles Kinbote.
(b) John Shade's time in Zembla.
(c) John Shade's relationship with his family.
(d) John Shade's writing process.

4. Which of the following best describes John Shade's daughter?
(a) Humble and worried.
(b) Introverted, but fascinating.
(c) Attractive, but tormented.
(d) Unattractive and intellegent.

5. A fellow-professor calls Charles Kinbote by what nickname?
(a) The Great Beaver.
(b) The King of Zembla.
(c) Gerald Emerald.
(d) Prof. C.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which best describes Kinbote's reason for rejecting the offer by the first potential publisher of "Pale Fire"?

2. How does John Shade's daughter die?

3. Charles Kinbote thinks the reference to "that crystal land" in line 12 refers to what place?

4. Who or what does John Shade claim to see in his near-death experience?

5. What did Charles Kinbote do with the cat?

(see the answer key)

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